We have spoken many times about how important it is to take care of the details when preparing a coffee , that each of the factors that intervene in a cup of coffee, from its cultivation to the way it is served, can alter or affect its quality, that is why There are experts and great connoisseurs about the processes and preparation of coffee and they are the baristas. But we've talked about them before, so now we'll highlight why they're so important in a coffee shop.
Coffee shops, like any business, require experts and professionals who understand the processes , in this case, the preparation of different beverages. And not just any beverage, but the delicacy we know as coffee and all its variations. Coffee preparation is not limited to the raw material—be it the beans, which, of course, are expected to be of the highest possible quality—or the preparation process, whether machine-made or using one of the well-known methods. For all these elements to work, a connoisseur is needed to bring the coffee to life with the knowledge and correct use of each element. , that is why to be a good barista requires several characteristics and knowledge.
What a barista should know
An important part of the barista's job is selecting the beans and this involves knowing how to identify the qualities of a good coffee, Being able to evaluate its physical and chemical qualities, such as moisture, color, and flavor, as well as being able to recognize uniformity in the roast and define its traceability. Learning to identify this is a process for baristas that involves bringing the best coffee to their shop. Another detail that the barista must focus on is the knowledge, care and way of using the different coffee machines present within the business, These are the production tools for most of the preparations offered in these types of establishments, so you must take care of your instruments and ensure they are working properly. As a general rule, coffee machines have at least five instruments that must be monitored: the thermometer, nanometer, level sensor, volumetric counter, and timer. In addition to these, they have several internal control elements.
As we have already discussed, the quality of the coffee in the cup depends as much on its preparation as on the elements that compose it, that is why It is important for the barista to take care of the water quality parameters, You must ensure its purity and neutrality, ensuring it doesn't contain odors or flavors that could alter the quality of the cup. And as in any food business, it's also the barista's job to establish and enforce safety and hygiene practices around the coffee preparation areas, the machines, and the entire facility. Machines should always be placed in safe locations. Remember that they generate heat and steam and can cause burns if used improperly. In terms of hygiene, proper disinfection of the elements prevents contamination of the beverage.
But it is not only knowledge, great qualities are required
To pursue this profession, not only is knowledge of the various subjects necessary; this is acquired over time, practice, and, of course, constant study. But Something fundamental in this profession is dedication, perfecting these subjects takes time, a lot of dedication and above all discipline This is something that makes the difference in any barista and reflects the depth of their passion for coffee. Another important quality that baristas in specialty shops must possess is being good leaders. They will be responsible for controlling the space, ensuring the products come out correctly, and ensuring the team performs its functions. That's why it's important for them to know how to maintain control and pass on their knowledge .
AND Another great quality that I would define as patience and people skills, It's about understanding the consumer. We know that many of us, when we go to a café, are curious and want to ask a lot of questions. Others, pretending to be knowledgeable, may question us or try to get us to back down. As in any other business, you must understand their desires and know how to guide the diner toward the perfect product to complete their experience.
Being a barista involves a passion and love for coffee , enjoying every aspect of it, and learning how to capture the desires a consumer conveys in each cup. So, the next time you find yourself in a café , let's allow ourselves to be surprised by the barista's hidden powers and savor all their coffee passion in our cups.