If you’re not at Starbucks, maybe don’t order a Starbucks drink.

But whats secretly going on behind that bright smile?

We talked to a veteran barista to find out the most annoying customer behaviors they often encounter.

Server attentively listens to a customer ordering in a cafe

double-check to avoid them and retain your favorite customer status.

I get to ask how your day is going and learn little things about you.

It gives me social connectivity in small doses.

Confident baker standing with arms crossed in front of a pastry display at a bakery

At Catherines neighborhood shop, she estimates that about 60% of the clientele are regulars.

I know their orders and can start drinks before they even come up to the counter.

I know if they just had a kid, moved to town or got a different job.

A customer orders at a cafe counter with an employee, another person in the background

It makes me feel like Im in a small town, even when I live in a big city.

But customers are still strange sometimes.

Catherine has dealt with her share of imperious jerks and paltry tippers.

Barista pours beans into grinder at a coffee shop, another employee in the background

Did they realize where they were going?

Did they have a goal in mind?

Do you want that?

Person ordering at the counter of a cozy cafe with hanging plants and customers in the background. Menu board visible

I ask, Want room for cream?

and theyre shouting, Not Tuesday, Allison!

I need it TODAY!

Person using a phone to pay at a restaurant, with a credit card inserted into a mobile card reader

and then I ask What?

and they say What?

Yup, the people in line are really having some fun now.

It sort of grinds the convo to a halt.

Thats because its my job to double-check you have exactly what you want.

If you dont even know your own preferences, how am I ever going to hey you?

Customers who take stock of their surroundings are my absolute favorites.

Then why dont you get out your credit card right now?

Or is there a sign by the register that says cash only?

Better see what youve got in your wallet now.

None of this has to wait until the moment I tell you what you owe.

Also, if its a shop that goes by first names, remember the one you gave us.

As weird as that behavior is, Catherine notes another post-order stunt that occurs with alarming regularity.

I swear, I dont know where they go, she said.

Even if you act rudely, you could still tip big.

Your barista really does want you to get the drink you want, Catherine said.

They want it to be the perfect temperature.

They want it to make you happy.

And they want you to leave a big, fat tip in gratitude.