Did you know that there are over 35,000 Starbucks stores across the world? It’s likely that you’ll encounter [1] this familiar coffee chain on your travels, whether you’re looking for a familiar place to go for your daily caffeine, or to kill time [2] on a long layover at the airport.
Ordering coffee at a cafe is a great way to practice English, as you can rehearse a variety of expressions each time you visit. There are three main categories of expressions that can come in handy. Phrases for ordering, phrases for questions or modifications, and miscellaneous requests.
When it comes to ordering, you have two options for how you can format your order. If you are new to Starbucks, you can order by going back and forth with the barista, resulting in more frequent but shorter responses. The second option (for Starbucks veterans [3]) is to memorize the order of operations used when ordering at Starbucks (if you’re a regular, you’ll catch on [4] to it pretty quickly!). Have a look at both options, labeled A and B respectively.
Option A:
Option B:
The trick to getting to “Option B” is by knowing what to prepare in advance, and it may be best to remember the “order of operations.”
1. Temperature
2. Size (Tall, Grande, Venti, Trenta)
3. Drink type
4. Modifications or additions [optional]
5. Location (for here or to go).
Let’s go over some expressions that you may commonly hear or need to use yourself while ordering at a Starbucks abroad.
Listening:
Speaking:
When Ordering
Common sentence starters
Indecisive
Questions
Special requests
Allergies
Changing your mind
Paying for your order
Questions or Concerns:
Can’t understand
Incorrect Order
If the barista apologizes for the incorrect order, a casual response can be “No worries, it happens!” or “That’s okay.”
Delay
Amenities
Other
Though ordering in a new language at a coffee shop can feel overwhelming and fast-paced, take a deep breath and take it at your speed. There is no shame in asking someone to repeat what they said or to slow down, as native speakers do it too.
Best of luck!