Coffee shops are one of the best “third places” to get things done, catch up with people, or just enjoy a good drink. A few small habits make the space better for everyone—customers and baristas included. Here’s a simple etiquette guide you can follow at Hebrews and she bakes, LLC (or any café).
1) Before you sit down: set yourself up like a good neighbor
- Order first (when it’s busy). Don’t claim a table during the rush and order later.
- Choose a table that matches your mission. Solo work = small table. Group hangout = larger table.
- Keep bags off chairs if seats are limited. A backpack doesn’t need its own spot.
2) Ordering etiquette (aka: make it easy for the barista)
- Know your “core order” before you get to the counter.
- Ask questions—just keep it simple. (One or two is totally fine.)
- Customize responsibly. Ten changes isn’t a vibe when there’s a line.
- Say your name clearly if they call orders by name.
- Tip when you can. Even small tips add up and show appreciation.
3) Studying etiquette: quiet productivity without the side-eye
- Use headphones for all audio. Videos, lectures, voice notes—everything.
- Keep your speaking voice low. If you must take a call, step outside.
- Don’t spread out like it’s your bedroom. Notes + laptop is fine. A full desk setup isn’t.
- Be mindful during peak hours. If it’s packed, shorten your stay or free up space.
- Clean up your crumbs and wrappers. Leaving a mess is the fastest way to get remembered (in a bad way).
4) Working remotely: “you can camp here” without actually camping
- Buy something occasionally. If you’re staying a while, reorder (drink, pastry, snack).
- Avoid hogging outlets. One device at a time when possible.
- Bring a fully charged laptop. Outlets are not guaranteed.
- Keep Zoom calls minimal. If you have a long meeting, consider stepping out or choosing a quieter time.
- Use a hotspot if your work is urgent. Café Wi-Fi can be shared and unpredictable.
5) Meeting friends: have fun without taking over the whole room
- Pick the right time for big meetups. Peak hours + large group = tough combo.
- Order promptly. Don’t have one person buy while everyone else “just waits.”
- Keep chairs and tables where they are. Moving furniture usually creates flow issues.
- Watch your volume. If people nearby are leaning away, you’re too loud.
- Limit “table parking” if it’s full. If you’re done, wrap up and free the space.
6) Kid-friendly etiquette (if you’re bringing little ones)
- Keep walkways clear (strollers, bags, toys).
- Use inside voices as best as possible.
- Clean up spills quickly and let staff know if you need help.
- Choose a table that won’t block traffic to the counter or restrooms.
7) Social media etiquette: take pics, just don’t disrupt the vibe
- Quick photos are fine. Full photo shoots during a rush? Not ideal.
- Don’t film strangers up close. Respect privacy.
- Tag the shop if you post—local businesses appreciate it.
8) The golden rules (works for everyone)
- If it’s crowded, take up less space.
- If you’re staying long, buy something again.
- If you make a mess, clean it up.
- If you need to be loud, step outside.
9) Why this matters (especially at Hebrews and she bakes, LLC)
When customers follow simple etiquette:
- baristas can serve faster
- the space stays welcoming for students, remote workers, and friends
- everyone enjoys the calm, cozy vibe a good coffee shop is supposed to have