WHaT iS BaRiSTa?

Barista

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

When using the term in English, "barista" refers to one who has acquired some level of expertise in the preparation of espresso-based coffee drinks. Within certain circles, its meaning is expanding to include what might be called a coffee sommelier; a professional who is highly skilled in coffee preparation, with a comprehensive understanding of coffee, coffee blends, espresso, quality, coffee varieties, roast degree, espresso equipment, maintenance, latte art, etc. James Hoffmann of Britain is the current World Barista Champion.

Though popularly believed to be an Italian term, the word barista (plural: baristi [masculine or mixed sex] or bariste [feminine]) was adapted in the United States as a derivative of the Italian word meaning "bartender" and is now part of the lexicon of some American coffee shops. The term is derived from the Italian use of the word bar, which is similar to the American or British café. In Italy, the barista typically works behind a counter, serving both hot (such as espresso and other coffee-based ones) and cold alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages.