Just returned from 3days at a conference in Brisbane. Unfortunately did not manage to get close to any of the recommended good coffee places. Had only two coffee experiences - both bad. First one at the Hilton where I approached the barista in the Bistro (I use the term loosely) to be told "Have a seat and someone will take your order" They did about 10 minutes after that, and I carefully explained I wanted a "long black with only half the usual amount of water - thats a single shot with less water" After another 10mins a waitress struggling with the language approached me to say "we got your order wrong and we are doing it again" When it came it was just a normal long black. So obviously nobody there understands English.
I didnt drink it as it was very strong & very bitter.
The second experience was at - wait for it - the Airport. Yes, I know, serves me right but I thought the place looked OK so I thought Id have a punt. It was the one down the northern end near the specialty shops on the first level. I ordered a latte but with only half the usual milk. Explained it twice in different ways but, you guessed it, got just the normal latte full to the top. Mentioned this nicely to the barista who promptly grabbed the cup, poured half down the sink and handed it back saying "That OK?" I just shook my head at her and walked away. I cant figure out whether the problem is that the person who takes the order doesnt communicate the message, or the barista is so fixed in their habits that they are incapable of doing anything that varies slightly from the norm. I never ask for variations when it is really busy as I can understand that under these conditions the barista is under a lot of pressure to just keep the coffees coming. I have never yet had a decent coffee from a young female in a coffee shop. I am sure there must be some around who are good baristas - I just havent met them.
I didnt drink it as it was very strong & very bitter.
The second experience was at - wait for it - the Airport. Yes, I know, serves me right but I thought the place looked OK so I thought Id have a punt. It was the one down the northern end near the specialty shops on the first level. I ordered a latte but with only half the usual milk. Explained it twice in different ways but, you guessed it, got just the normal latte full to the top. Mentioned this nicely to the barista who promptly grabbed the cup, poured half down the sink and handed it back saying "That OK?" I just shook my head at her and walked away. I cant figure out whether the problem is that the person who takes the order doesnt communicate the message, or the barista is so fixed in their habits that they are incapable of doing anything that varies slightly from the norm. I never ask for variations when it is really busy as I can understand that under these conditions the barista is under a lot of pressure to just keep the coffees coming. I have never yet had a decent coffee from a young female in a coffee shop. I am sure there must be some around who are good baristas - I just havent met them.
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