Requesting a Recommendation for a Specific Taste Profile

The customer describes their preferred taste (e.g., 'not too sweet', 'something strong', 'fruity') and asks the barista for a recommendation based on that.

Dialogue

Listen and follow along with the conversation

Emily (Female)

Hi there! I'm looking for something new today. Do you have any recommendations?

James (Male)

Absolutely! What kind of flavors are you usually into? Sweet, strong, fruity?

Emily (Female)

Hmm, I'm not really into overly sweet drinks. I prefer something a bit more bold, maybe with a hint of something interesting, but definitely not too sweet.

James (Male)

Got it. So, bold, not too sweet... have you tried our Americano with a shot of hazelnut? It adds a nice, subtle nutty flavor without making it sweet.

Emily (Female)

Oh, that sounds intriguing! Or perhaps something with a sharper, less sweet profile, like a citrus note?

James (Male)

A citrus note, I like that! Our cold brew with a splash of orange zest syrup might be perfect for you then. It's refreshing and not sweet at all.

Emily (Female)

That's exactly what I'm looking for! I'll take the cold brew with orange zest. Thanks for the brilliant recommendation!

James (Male)

You're very welcome! Coming right up.

Vocabulary

Essential words and phrases from the dialogue

recommendation

A suggestion for something good, like a drink or food. Use it when asking for advice in a shop or restaurant.

flavors

Different tastes, such as sweet, sour, or fruity. It's useful for describing what you like in food or drinks.

bold

Strong and intense in taste, not mild. Say this when you want a coffee or drink with a powerful flavor.

hint

A small amount or suggestion of something. For example, 'a hint of chocolate' means a little bit of chocolate taste.

subtle

Not strong or obvious; gentle or light. Use it to describe a flavor that is mild and not overpowering.

citrus

A fresh, tangy taste from fruits like oranges or lemons. Common in drinks for a zesty, refreshing flavor.

refreshing

Making you feel cool, fresh, and energized. Perfect for describing iced drinks on a hot day.

Key Sentences

Important phrases to remember and practice

Do you have any recommendations?

This is a polite way to ask for suggestions. It's useful in stores or cafes when you want ideas but aren't sure what to choose. The question form with 'do you have' makes it direct and friendly.

What kind of flavors are you usually into?

This question helps find out someone's taste preferences. 'Into' means 'like' or 'interested in.' Use it in conversations to learn what others enjoy, like in food discussions.

I'm not really into overly sweet drinks.

Express dislike for something too much. 'Not really into' is informal for 'don't like much,' and 'overly' means excessively. Great for explaining preferences without being rude.

I prefer something a bit more bold.

State your choice clearly. 'Prefer' shows what you like better, and 'a bit more' softens the comparison. Use this pattern to compare options, like 'I prefer tea over coffee.'

Have you tried our Americano with a shot of hazelnut?

Recommend something by asking if they've experienced it. 'Have you tried' invites response, and 'shot' means a small amount added. Useful for service workers suggesting menu items.

That sounds intriguing!

Show interest in a suggestion. 'Intriguing' means interesting or exciting. This short response keeps the conversation positive and encourages more details.

Thanks for the brilliant recommendation!

Thank someone for good advice. 'Brilliant' means excellent or smart. Use this to end positively after getting help, showing appreciation in customer service situations.