The difference between a latte and a cappuccino is pretty simple, and some teas contain caffeine.
You don't have to use Starbucks' lingo, but it's possible to make customizations on food orders.
What's the difference between a latte and a cappuccino?
Cappuccinos have an equal ratio of espresso, milk, and foam.
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Before I worked at Starbucks, I had no idea what the difference was between a latte and a cappuccino — I just knew I preferred the former. But once I started training, I quickly learned that it's pretty straightforward.
A latte has espresso at the bottom with a heavier amount of steamed milk poured in, and a thin layer of frothy milk at the top. A cappuccino has equal parts espresso, steamed milk, and frothy milk.
In short, cappuccinos have a stronger coffee flavor because there's less milk mixed with the espresso.
Tea doesn't have caffeine, right?
Some teas, like green tea, are caffeinated.
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If you're hypersensitive to caffeine and think tea is a safe bet, just remember some teas are still caffeinated — even if brewed tea only contains about half as much as a cup of coffee.
If you're looking for a caffeinated recommendation, my go-tos are always the Earl Grey or English breakfast, which are both black teas. If you have a sore throat, the Honey Citrus Mint tea (also known as the medicine ball) with green and herbal teas, might be the perfect choice for you.
If you're really looking for a caffeine-free option, make sure to ask about the herbal teas available.
If you don't like coffee-based drinks, here are some of my top recommendations: any of the teas, chai latte, matcha latte, hot chocolate, any of the crème Frappuccinos (except the chocolate cookie crumble, which includes mocha sauce), or any of the refreshers.
You can even just order a glass of lemonade.
Does Starbucks make its food in-house?
The food can be warmed up, but it's not made in-house.
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Don't let the food display fool you. Unlike a lot of independently owned coffee shops, Starbucks doesn't make its pastries and breakfast sandwiches in-house.
If you've ever glanced behind the counter, you may have seen a barista pulling your food item out of plastic wrap. But, that doesn't mean you can't "customize" orders.
Before we put them into the toaster oven, we can still remove toppings from things like sandwiches if you'd like.
Can I just say small, medium, or large?
The barista will likely know what you mean even if you don't use Starbucks lingo.
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The only thing that might happen when you ask for a small, medium, or large instead of a tall, grande, or venti is the barista may briefly look puzzled as they do the translation in their head. They might even hold up the different sizes just to double check they understand you correctly.
Why can't I get blonde or dark roast in the afternoon?
The brewed coffees have to be refreshed throughout the day.
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If you're looking for a cup of blonde or dark drip coffee for your afternoon pick-me-up, there's a good chance your Starbucks won't have it ready.
All the drip coffee is supposed to be dumped and rebrewed every 30 minutes. Those two blends are typically the least popular among customers, so to reduce waste, baristas usually only brew the standard Pike's Place throughout the day.
But some places will get to know their customers and might be willing to make an exception.
The same goes for self-serve creamers and milks. By midday, many chains will consolidate the morning variety near the sugars and stir sticks. But baristas are usually more than happy to add some to your coffee at the counter.
