Sarah has worked at Alf’s for 5 years having started as dishwasher for a Saturday job.
What skills does a good Barista need?
A friendly manner with customers; knowing what coffees they like, especially the locals. You need to know about all types of coffees – there’s no such thing anymore now as a ‘typical’ coffee. Good mental arithmetic helps – it was especially important when Alf’s didn’t have an electronic till until a couple of years ago!
What coffees are popular?
The Flat White; a 50:50; the 7 day latté (a ‘weak’ latté!); an Al Pacino
(a cappuccino with no chocolate). The double-strength decaff seems an odd one though!
What’s your favourite coffee?
I don’t drink coffee… I don’t like the taste!
Describe Alf’s?
Unique, rustic and fun.
Best & worst about working at Alfs?
Best – the people I work with. I have made a lot of friends here and some I have grown up with in Dartmouth.
The worst – the early mornings! My hours are usually 7am to 3-4pm. I have three alarms and ‘snooze’ them all before rushing around with 5 minutes to spare. I have learned, though, that happiness isn’t a lie-in till noon!
What do you need to work at Alf’s?
Confidence. But often people have developed that confidence as they settle into the job. It’s loud and busy and you need to make yourself heard.
What makes a good customer?
Someone who is happy and jolly. Many of them are especially when on holiday in Dartmouth in the summer. The worst are ones without manners but we don’t get too many of those and I have learned not to take it personally. I love it when it’s busy.
A Dartmouth girl?
Yes, I was born here 22 years ago. My father has been a self-employed fisherman since 16 yrs old and my family has lived here for many years.
Hobbies?
Not many except spending time with my fiancé, Nathan, who works at Morrisons and is an Army Reservist. We’re saving up to move into a new home.
Travel?
I haven’t done too much. I can’t be too far away from my hair straighteners and make-up.
Jewellery or tattoos?
Tattoos every time – I wear my ‘sleeve’ on my arm. I love my body art. I know it’s not to everybody’s taste but I love all of my tattoos.
Favourite TV programme? Hollyoaks
Favourite colour? Pink
Favourite film star? Cameron Diaz
Favourite meal? Pizza. 100%!
First published By The Dart May 2015 Issue
