What does a barista routine typically consist of?

A typical barista routine is crucial for ensuring high-quality coffee preparation and maintaining a clean work environment, which is why it primarily includes grinder adjustment, espresso preparation, and cleaning.

Grinder adjustment is essential as it directly affects the extraction quality of the espresso. Proper grind size is critical for achieving the desired flavor profile and consistency in each shot. If the grind is too fine or too coarse, it can lead to under-extraction or over-extraction, both of which can compromise the taste of the coffee.

Espresso preparation involves not only pulling shots but also monitoring variables such as water temperature, pressure, and extraction time. An experienced barista knows how to adjust these variables to create a balanced and flavorful espresso. This part of the routine is fundamental in expression of coffee's unique characteristics.

Cleaning is another vital component of a barista's routine because it maintains equipment functionality and hygiene. Regularly cleaning the espresso machine and grinders helps prevent the buildup of old coffee oils and residues, which can adversely affect the flavor of future brews.

While other options mention tasks related to being a barista, they do not encapsulate the full routine centered on coffee preparation and maintenance of equipment, which is central to a barista's role.