Coffee Snob. Is this a compliment?

A scoff from the guest, when I asked if they want cream or sugar is what sparked this thought of mine.

As a Barista in this Kona Coffee shop, that offers good quality & great tasting coffee, I’ve had quite a few conversations with people where they’d describe themselves or a friend as a coffee snob. They’d smile to this. But really? Is it a good thing?

A snob is someone who thinks highly of themselves and who shames people for what they do. Don’t get me wrong. I’m an avid black coffee fan. However, ever since I’ve worked behind bar, and learned how beautiful & creative flavors can be with coffee, I too have been hooked & amazed with these possibilities!

It may sound as a compliment for some, as saying that you are a coffee snob is also a way of saying that “I prefer good quality coffee” or “I don’t like burnt coffee” or “I would pay for a good cup of coffee”, but hopefully we could change this term as “Coffee Enthusiast” instead. It sounds…. friendlier!

Coffee is amazing. It brings people together. Let’s all enjoy our coffee and be inclusive of how people appreciate their drink. Let’s share thoughts on our preferences, and maybe you can encourage that tasty Caramel Macchiato drinker to try this unique, floral tasting Peaberry, because either way, both drinks won’t be made possible without coffee in it!