According to Kaiden Durham, Takao Tea barista, there is a cup of joe for everyone out there.
Many non-coffee drinkers are often skeptical of coffee due to its reputation of a bitter taste and dangerous caffeine levels. What they don’t know is that coffee has the perfect amount of caffeine to keep one awake without giving them the stereotypical jitters. There are also a wide variety of flavors, types and levels of coffee that may be confusing to non-coffee drinkers.
“Espresso is a coffee concentrate,” Durham said. “Americanos, lattes, cappuccinos [contain espresso].”
Durham goes on to explain that the stereotypical coffee that people think of is a pot of black coffee, also referred to as drip coffee. Although this is a popular kind of coffee, it is often strong and bitter. Espresso shots are used in drinks that primarily contain milk and/or creamer.
“It gives you energy to have a productive day,” said Harley Alford, junior public administration major. “Sometimes I go study at coffee shops with my friends.”
Alford explained that coffee is a better choice than energy drinks. The caffeine is significantly lower in coffee and gives people energy without being too much for the body to handle at one time.
Alford suggests that students new to coffee should try Coffee Bar or Higher Grounds. There are many coffee shops near campus, but there are also options on campus, such as the Market in the Memorial Union.
Gina Pineda, supervisor of the Market, makes coffee every day. She explains that sometimes the difference between two types of coffee can be as small as simply switching the order they are poured into the cup, which is why coffee is easy to manipulate to fit a customer’s preference.
While there are many different kinds of coffee, there is a type or flavor that can appeal to everyone. Depending on whether people want their coffee strong or only want to taste creamer, coffee can be changed to fit their preferences, which makes it a great drink for anyone to try!
Edited by Jeremy Ford and Stuti Khadka