A barista (/ bəˈriːstə, - ˈrɪs -/ bə-REE-stə, bə-RIST-ə, Italian: [baˈrista]; lit. 'bartender') is a person, usually a coffeehouse employee, who prepares and serves espresso -based coffee drinks and other beverages.

In this comprehensive guide, you’ll discover the essential skills every barista needs, explore their day-to-day responsibilities, and learn about the various career paths available in the coffee industry.

What is a barista? A barista is a person who prepares coffee and other espresso-based drinks for customers in a café, restaurant, or coffee shop. Barista is a fairly new job, even though it seems to have been around for ages.

What is a Barista? A barista specializes in the art of preparing and serving coffee-based beverages. Baristas work in coffee shops, cafes, and specialty coffee establishments, and their role goes beyond simply making a cup of coffee.

It’s an art form; a blend of skill and speed, and a deep, deep love for coffee. The term “barista” originates from Italy and means “bartender.” This makes sense as Italy invented espresso and Italian Angelo Moriondo, the first true espresso machine.

A barista is the heart of any coffee shop, blending deep coffee knowledge with the skill to craft a perfect cup. From mastering espresso machines to serving up pour-overs, baristas bring out the best in coffee beans while keeping customers happy.