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Order Etiquette

Knowing how to order espresso drinks can be tricky. There is a certain order to be familiar with along with espresso lingo to know and it can be intimidating and sometimes overwhelming. Don't let it ruin your coffee shop experience. With this easy guide for ordering and glossary of lingo- you'll be an espresso pro in no time!

Ordering Procedure

Here is a good example of how to order a drink:
"I would like a medium, nonfat, no whip mocha."

State the number of shots of espresso you would like IF other than the typical amount in the size you are ordering.
Size of the cup you would like. Typically there are three sizes of hot drinks- 12 oz, 16 oz, and 20 oz. (each shop is different for how many shots of espresso they use in each size- it would be good to learn this information for your favorite local spot- just ask them and they will let you know)
If you would like a flavor added, this would be the time to say so (example: "Vanilla")
Type of milk you would like IF other than 2% which is typically the default milk unless you ask otherwise.
If you do not want foam, say "No Foam"
If you do not want whip cream, Say "No Whip"
If you are ordering something other than a latte, state it now, "Cappuccino" or "Mocha"

Espresso Lingo

Breve: latte with half-and-half used instead of milk
Double: two shots of espresso
Dry: mostly foamed milk, less steamed milk (example: a dry cappuccino)
Foamless: no foam
Grande: typically a 16 oz cup
Half Caf: drink made with half regular and half decaf espresso
Harmless: drink made with decaf espresso
No Fun: drink made with decaf espresso
Quad: four shots of espresso
Ristretto: a shot of espresso pulled with the same amount of coffee but for a shorter time resulting in a bolder, fuller flavored shot
Short: 8 oz cup - this size is not common in commercial coffee shops
Single: one shot of espresso
Skinny: made with skim milk
Sleeper: drink made with decaf espresso
Tall: typically a 12 oz cup
Triple: drink with three shots of espresso
Venti: typically at Starbucks, a 20 oz cup
Wet: mostly steamed milk, less foamed milk (example: a wet cappuccino)
Whipless: no whipped cream
With Room: drink not completely filled leaving 1/2 - 1 inch at the top for cream to be added.

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