15 Items You Must Have At Your Barista Station
Being a barista is a skill. Having certain tools and ingredients will make your drinks taste better, keep your station clean, and make you a better barista. Take it from someone with 3+ years of experience. Whether you are a home barista or a cafe employee or owner, these 15 ingredients are essential to the barista game.
1. This isn't an ingredient, but it's the main character of the show. An espresso machine/ maker. The La Marzocco machines range from $5,000-$20,000 if you are starting a cafe. It is the standard brand you'll see in cafes. If you're at home, you can check out Williams Sonoma, Crate and Barrel, Amazon, Best Buy, and more to find affordable and efficient small espresso machines and makers.
Try these affordable espresso makers:
2. Espresso beans/ grinder. You can't make espresso without espresso beans. Find your favorite beans and keep them stocked at your station. The beans and grinder are always connected. Some machines only allow you to use the beans they give you. Make sure you're reading the directions and using the machine properly.
3. Tamper. Once you have your espresso grounds in the portafilter, you will need a tamper to push it down. A tamper is a must.
4. Cups. At a cafe, ceramic, plastic, and paper cups are needed. Ceramic cups to drink in the cafe, plastic cups for cold drinks, and disposable cups for hot drinks. At home, have a few of your favorite glasses and mugs around to enjoy your drinks.
5. Lids. This only applies to cafes.
6. Straws. Both cafes and home coffee bars.
7. Simple syrup. Simple syrup is a staple in cafes. It is sugar in liquid form. It is sugar and hot water that sits and turns into a liquid. This is a must at your barista station.
8. Vanilla syrup. Vanilla is the most popular flavor to add to a drink. Use Le Monin!
9. Caramel syrup. Caramel is the second most popular flavor to add to a drink.
10. Hazelnut syrup. Hazelnut is the third most popular.
11. Whole milk. This is a standard for cafes and home coffee bars.
12. Almond milk. Have a plant-based milk alternative for dietary restrictions at the cafe or if you want to try something different at home.
13. Microfiber rags. This is a must to keep your bar clean to be swift at the cafe and maintain cleanliness. Keep one to wipe the inside of the portafilter, one on the counter, and another for your milk steam wand.
14. Dust brush. The counter will get dusty with espresso grounds. This is a must!
15. A smile. If you work at a cafe, serving up drinks with a smile is how you make connections and more tips! Don't forget to smile! Even if you're at home, smile once you have made your signature drink!
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