The Starbucks Drink That’s a Total Rip-Off (According to Baristas)

If you’ve ever ordered a cappuccino at Starbucks, you might want to think twice before doing it again. According to baristas, this classic espresso-based drink is one of the biggest rip-offs on the menu.

Why?

Customers often misunderstand what they’re paying for, leading to disappointment and frustration—for both the buyer and the barista.

Why the Cappuccino Feels Like a Rip-Off

A traditional cappuccino is made with equal parts espresso, steamed milk, and milk foam. It’s lighter than a latte, which has more milk, and it’s intentionally foam-heavy. However, many Starbucks customers expect something creamier or larger for their money. When they receive what feels like “a cup of foam,” they often feel shortchanged.

Baristas have shared countless stories about customers complaining that their cappuccino isn’t “full” or that it’s mostly foam. Some even demand remakes, not realizing that foam is an essential part of the drink. This misunderstanding leads to awkward exchanges where baristas have to explain that they’ve made the drink correctly—foam and all.

The Cost Factor

Part of what makes the cappuccino feel like a rip-off is its price relative to its size. At Starbucks, cappuccinos are priced similarly to lattes, but because they contain less milk and more air (in the form of foam), customers perceive them as smaller and less satisfying. Essentially, you’re paying latte prices for what feels like less product.

To make matters worse, some customers try to customize their cappuccinos by asking for “wet” versions (less foam) or even “no foam” at all. At that point, you’re essentially ordering a latte—but still paying for a cappuccino.

Why Baristas Are Over It

Baristas are tired of dealing with cappuccino orders—not just because of customer complaints but also because of how difficult it can be to meet unrealistic expectations. For instance, making a cappuccino without foam is nearly impossible since foam is integral to the drink’s structure. Additionally, alternative milks like almond or soy don’t froth as well as dairy milk, making it even harder to satisfy picky customers.

The Bottom Line

If you’re ordering a cappuccino at Starbucks expecting a creamy latte-like drink or a big cup of coffee, you’re setting yourself up for disappointment. Baristas recommend brushing up on what a cappuccino actually is before placing your order—or opting for another drink altogether if you’re looking for more bang for your buck.

Next time you’re at Starbucks, think twice before ordering this misunderstood beverage. It might just save you—and your barista—a lot of frustration!