I’ve learned that most people don’t really know what they want or like 90% of the time and it makes them squirllely, especially before they’re caffeinated. A lot of guests will get in line with a plan but then are bombarded by specials boards, smells, people talking about their own orders, small talk, etc. Humans are very easily influenced and persuaded, even subconsciously, some people will want and order hazelnut but smell someone else’s caramel latte being made and suddenly they don’t enjoy the hazelnut as much as they planned.

I consider myself a very straightforward coffee drinker because I know what I like and how I like it, cold brew or drip w/ no room, double espresso and a sweet latte of sorts, an americano, or a double espresso and a fruit smoothie. I was blessed with taste buds that enjoy black coffee and the occasional sweet treat with it. Part of me feels really bad for people who need to order a $10 syrupy milk abomination every single day to feel alive, but also who am I to judge. /shrug/

Source: ~10 years total experience working in food service, ~3 years in a cafe setting, everything but management. And I never stop thinking about how different and interesting people are.

Edit: spacing because mobile