How to Order Coffee Like a Pro (Without Feeling Awkward)

It's Just Coffee — You've Got This

Let's be honest: walking into a specialty coffee shop for the first time can feel like entering a world where everyone speaks a language you don't. The menu is full of Italian words, the barista asks questions you weren't expecting, and somehow the person in front of you rattled off a 15-word order without blinking.

Here's what we want you to know at Revival Coffee: there are no wrong orders. Our baristas genuinely love helping people find their perfect drink. The only bad question is the one you don't ask.

But if you'd rather walk in prepared, here's everything you need to know.

Step 1: Pick Your Base Drink

Start with one of these categories:

If you like it simple:

• Drip coffee — Classic brewed coffee. Just like home, but better. Ask for it black or with cream and sugar.
• Americano — Espresso diluted with hot water. Smooth and straightforward.

If you like it creamy:

• Latte — Espresso with lots of steamed milk. Creamy, mild, the most popular espresso drink.
• Cappuccino — Like a latte but with more foam and a stronger espresso taste.

If you like it cold:

• Iced coffee — Regular coffee served over ice.
• Cold brew — Coffee steeped in cold water for 18+ hours. Smoother and less acidic. Read our complete cold brew guide.
• Iced latte — Espresso + cold milk over ice.

If you like it sweet:

• Mocha — Espresso + chocolate + steamed milk. Like hot chocolate meets coffee.
• Flavored latte — A latte with vanilla, caramel, hazelnut, or seasonal flavors.

Not sure which category? Check out our full espresso drinks guide for detailed comparisons.

Step 2: Choose Your Size

Most coffee shops offer three sizes. At Revival Coffee:

• Small (8 oz) — One shot of espresso
• Medium (12 oz) — Two shots of espresso
• Large (16 oz) — Two shots with more milk

If you're not sure, medium is always a safe bet.

Step 3: Choose Your Milk

Your options typically include:

• Whole milk — The default at most shops. Creamy and rich.
• Oat milk — The most popular non-dairy option. Froths well, slightly sweet.
• Almond milk — Lighter, nutty flavor.
• Skim milk — Lower fat, thinner texture.

If you have dietary needs, just ask — we're happy to accommodate.

Step 4: Add Flavor (Optional)

Common flavor additions:

• Vanilla (classic, pairs with everything)
• Caramel (rich and sweet)
• Hazelnut (nutty and warm)
• Mocha/chocolate (for chocolate lovers)
• Seasonal options (pumpkin spice, peppermint, lavender — depending on the time of year)

You can also ask for your drink to be made less sweet or with half the syrup if you prefer subtle flavor.

Step 5: Hot or Iced

Almost every drink can be made hot or iced. Don't be shy about asking — there's no "wrong" temperature for any drink.

What Your Order Sounds Like

Here are some example orders, from simple to specific:

• "Can I get a medium latte?" — That's it. That's a complete order.
• "Medium iced vanilla latte with oat milk, please."
• "Small cappuccino."
• "Large cold brew with a splash of cream."
• "I'm not sure what to get — what do you recommend?" — Baristas love this question. Seriously.

Things You Don't Need to Worry About

• You don't need to use Italian. "Medium latte" works just as well as any fancy phrasing.
• You don't need to know the difference between every drink. That's what baristas are for.
• You can change your order. If you try something and don't love it, tell us. We want you to leave happy.
• You can ask for a recommendation. Just tell us what flavors you like (sweet, strong, chocolate, fruity) and we'll point you in the right direction.
• You won't be judged. Not at Revival Coffee. Not ever.

First Time at Revival Coffee?

Come visit us at 1251 S. Sherman St. in Richardson, TX. Here's what to expect:

1. Walk in and check out the menu on the wall or ask for one
2. Order at the counter — take your time, ask questions
3. We'll make your drink fresh
4. Find a seat, enjoy the WiFi, stay as long as you'd like

We built Revival Coffee to be the kind of place where everyone feels welcome — whether you're a coffee expert or you've never ordered an espresso in your life. See our full menu and come say hi.