Baristas make coffee drinks and sometimes brew tea.

They prepare drinks such as:

• Espressos
• Mochas
• Lattes
• Cappuccinos

They also pour regular and decaf coffee. Baristas may recommend certain coffee and coffee blends to customers.

Baristas prepare specialty drinks to match customers' specific orders. Most baristas know dozens of coffee and espresso recipes. They must be able to prepare drinks quickly, accurately, and without waste. They must understand all the ingredients used in coffee drinks.

Sometimes baristas roast and grind coffee beans. They also serve various food items, such as desserts, salads, and sandwiches. In most cafes and many restaurants, baristas take orders directly from customers. However, in some places they receive orders from waiters and waitresses.

In addition to serving coffee, baristas collect payments and operate cash registers. In large coffee shops, they may focus on one task such as running the espresso machine or working at the cash register.

They also clean up after customers and clean the machines in their work area. They may work closely with other baristas. Depending on where they work and their level of responsibility, baristas may also set up advertisements and displays.