Cafe Etiquette 101: Your Local Cafe

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A Cheeky Guide to Surviving Your Local Coffee Spot

Navigating the do’s and don’ts of your favourite café isn’t just a personal quirk—it’s practically an art form. We’ve all got our pet peeves at our local brew haven, and our guilty pleasures. In this playful guide, we’ll explore the whimsical world of café etiquette through the lens of my recent afternoon escapade, when I ditched work for a downtown coffee adventure.

While queuing up, I mentally noted the classic café do’s and don’ts. From the lady ahead who rummaged through her purse for exact change after a lengthy wait, to the chap joking with the barista about possibly the last sunny day of the year—it was October, after all!

Ah, the local coffee shop—a haven for caffeine lovers everywhere. It’s the place to sip your heart out and watch life unfold—a perfect blend of peace and pantomime. But where there’s zen, there’s also a bit of chaos, thanks to the occasional loudmouth, the eternal queue-dweller, or the mobile conversationalist broadcasting their drama to everyone in earshot. Ready for the ultimate do’s and don’ts of café visits? Consider this your light-hearted guide to café conduct, with a sprinkle of sass and a dash of wisdom.

DO People-Watch to Your Heart’s Content

Café patios are prime spots for a bit of guilt-free people-watching. Grab your preferred brew, get comfy, and take in the spectacle of human behaviour in its most caffeinated form. The business mogul hammering away on a laptop, the artist passionately sketching in the corner, the couple on a nerve-wracking first date trying not to spill lattes on themselves—it’s the life-sized drama you never knew you needed.

And then there’s the shared delight of watching someone juggle multiple coffees. Spoiler alert: it usually ends in a spill. Just keep your chuckles subdued—no one wants to be the person cackling too loudly. Though secretly, you know you’re hoping for a splash just for the entertainment—sneaky, aren’t you?

DON’T be that Person with the Spellbook Order

We all appreciate a tailor-made cuppa, but when your order starts sounding like a witch’s brew, it might be time to pare it down. “I’ll have a half-caff, soy, triple-shot, no-foam, pumpkin-spiced, extra-hot macchiato with a dusting of cinnamon.” Really, is this a coffee or a chemistry experiment? Keep it simple; your barista isn’t a wizard, and no one behind you is impressed by your drink’s ingredient list rivalling that of a gourmet feast. Unless you’re brewing secrets for NASA, stick to the classics, alright? Coffee’s meant to be savoured, not to bewilder the poor soul making it.

You know what: I get it that you want what you want but don’t do this during peak times.  Look around you, if there are 10 or more people in line behind you then maybe today isn’t the day for your half-caff, soy,triple shot, no-foam, pumpkin-spiced, extra-hot macchiato with a sprinkle of cinnamon!. Just saying.

DO Immerse Yourself in the Ambiance

The magic of a café lies in its ambiance. The gentle chatter, the hiss of steaming milk, the pastries beckoning you from behind the glass—they all weave together into a soothing symphony. Breathe deep, relax, and sink into the café’s charm.

Want to look the part? Bring along a book that screams intellectual (even if the pictures are the main attraction). Trust me, you’ll feel ten times cooler with War and Peace in hand—even if you’re secretly skimming the illustrations. Bonus points if you nod wisely while sipping as if you’ve just unravelled a profound truth.

DO head over to Big Al’s Coffee Club to get all your Coffee and tea needs satisfied

DON’T Be Brusque with the Baristas

This should be a no-brainer, but alas, it needs saying. Being rude to the barista is a cardinal sin in the café cosmos. These champions are your gateway to morning bliss! They hold the keys to your caffeine kingdom! When someone complains that their oat milk isn’t “oat-y” enough, it’s akin to biting the hand that brews.

A touch of kindness can work wonders—perhaps they’ll sneak in an extra espresso shot just because you smiled. Besides, rudeness is yesterday’s news. Stay classy, stay caffeinated, and keep it courteous.

Just common sense!

DO Decide Decisively (Or Make it Look That Way)

We jest about the indecisive, but it’s all in good humour. Still, having a rough idea of what you want before reaching the counter is considerate. We’ve all been stuck behind someone who’s never encountered coffee before, quizzing the menu like it’s the final round of a quiz show. If deciding between an Americano and a latte takes ages, maybe adulting isn’t quite your forte yet.

However, if you need some time, do it like a pro. Step aside, peruse the menu like you’re prepping for finals and step back confidently—“One medium black coffee, please.” Simplicity = sophistication, darling.

DON’T be a Patio Squatter

Ah, the café patio. Coveted real estate on crisp autumn days when the leaves turn. But nothing kills the vibe like someone colonizing the space, setting up their home office across multiple tables. We get it—remote work is the norm, but commandeering a whole patio for your 2 p.m. Zoom? Not cool.

Take what you need, enjoy the breeze, and when your time’s up, make room for others to relish the patio’s charm. Don’t be the café’s version of the airplane armrest hog. Share the space—it’s what makes us human!

DO Venture Beyond Your Usual Brew

Admittedly, we all have our go-to orders, but why not shake things up? Your local café likely boasts seasonal specials awaiting your adventurous taste buds. Pumpkin spice isn’t just a latte; it’s a lifestyle. And come holiday season, everything peppermint is a must-have.

Take your palate on an expedition. Try that matcha latte or cinnamon chai you’ve been eyeing. Worst case? You’re not a fan—but hey, you ventured out, and that’s worth a toast (of your favourite toast, naturally).

Don’t miss out on the selection of coffee, Tea, coffee makers and more At Big al’s coffee Club here:

DON’T Miss The Moment

The true joy of a café visit lies in escaping life’s hustle. Whether you’re grabbing a quick coffee or catching up with a mate, the café experience is about savouring the moment.

Pop the phone down for a spell (unless it’s time for that Insta-worthy latte shot), and just be. Breathe in the aroma, tune into the soft clink of cups, and relish the moment. It’s not merely about the drink—it’s the entire experience.

Conclusion

Last Call at Big Al’s Coffee Club!

Now that you’ve mastered café etiquette, it’s time to put your skills to the test. Whether sticking to your usual or trying something bold, Big Al’s Coffee Club has just the blend for your next café escapade. With autumnal flavours in full swing and the festive season approaching, you’ll find everything from bold, hearty roasts to warm, spiced lattes.

What are you waiting for? Pop in, discover your ideal blend, and relish the ultimate coffee experience this season. We promise—it’ll be brewed to perfection.

Check out our Cafe recommendations for Toronto here


Check out our cafe recommendations for Montreal here

Please note: the opinions expressed in this document should never be construed as advice. The thoughts are base on my experiences.  My likes and dislikes may vary drastically from yours.  Do your research and find products and experiences that align with your likes and dislikes. Also if adding supplements or changing your diet, please consult your medical practitioner before starting.

Al of Big Al’s Coffee Club.  From the time in my youth, when I would lay on our garage roof watching planes traverse the skies above me, I knew I wanted to see the world. 

My passion grew after spending a semester of my university days in Barcelona.  I spent more time on trains and buses or coffee houses than I did in class.  

After earning my BA from Carleton University, life got in the way.  But I did find time to graduate again from George Brown in Fitness and Lifestyle Management and then work my way through most of a degree in Sports Administration. However I needed to find work and pay for all this education! 

It wasn’t until my “middle age” did I start exploring the world again.  First, transversing the US and Canada to take part in tennis tournaments. Then later to complete my spectator “grand slam” of tennis.  

I accomplished this while earning my certificate in photography from Toronto Metropolitan University.  I am now combining the two passions and now sharing with you my many lessons learned.  And my passion for coffees and teas.