I used to work at Tim Hortons in Toronto — Here are 8 pro tips you should always follow
The views expressed in this Opinion article are the author’s own and do not necessarily reflect the views of Narcity Media.
Ever wondered what working at Tim Hortons is like? Not me. I lived that crap, and let me tell you, friends, it's a world of confusion for most.
After countless hours slinging coffee and donuts as a Tim Hortons barista, I've seen every customer quirk imaginable. From the semi-regulars (aka strangers) shocked by the fact that I don't know their "usual" yet to the surprisingly sizeable portion of the population that treats choosing Timbits like it's the most crucial decision of their lives, I've seen it all.
As someone who worked at a Tim Hortons in Toronto, I've managed to gather up a treasure trove of wisdom — and a whole lot of sass — along the way. Here are my eight pro tips that I think every Tims customer should know, straight from someone who's been in the trenches.
Figure out your order before reaching the window
There's nothing quite like the gnawing frustration of being in a long line, only to have it slowed down by someone changing their order at the last minute.
I remember one stupidly busy morning when a customer ordered a double-double and a box of Timbits, only to switch to a blueberry fritter and a cappuccino just as I was handing over the coffee. I don't think I'd ever gritted my teeth harder in my entire teenage existence than when I was delivering her new order to the parking lot after we pleaded with her to pull up, only for her to ask me, "Why did that take so long?"
This kind of last-minute change not only disrupts the flow but also leaves everyone else in line glaring — usually at the employees rather than the guilty customer — feeling like their time has been wasted.
To avoid starring in your own drive-thru fiasco, finalize your order before reaching the window. It keeps the line moving and spares the staff from having to remake your order multiple times.
Always specify your order details, even if you're a 'regular'
Being a regular at Tim Hortons has its perks, but believe it or not, even the most seasoned baristas aren't psychic mediums. I can't count how many times someone waltzed in, flashed a smile, and said, "I'll have the usual," like we're all on the same page. Pro tip: The phrase "the usual" is about as helpful as a screen door on a submarine.
One time, I tried to guess after a particularly rude customer barked this at me, and I guessed wrong, handing over a black coffee instead of a double-double to her. When I say the look she gave me could've curdled milk... I mean it. It was a mix of "How could you?" and "We are now enemies for life."
Being clear about your order ensures you get what you want without the drama. And trust me, during the morning rush, no one has time for ambiguity. Clarity not only prevents misunderstandings and mistakes but also keeps the line moving and everyone happy.
So next time you're tempted to say "the usual," remember, we're baristas, not mind-readers. Help us help you. Be specific.
Use bills or cards for large orders
One of the most memorable moments from my time as a Tims barista was when a customer paid for a large order with what seemed like a whole piggy bank of nickels and dimes. Imagine a busy morning rush, a line of caffeine-deprived people, and I'm counting out small change, coin by coin. I would hate me too, just by sheer association.
Using up the loose change in your pocket is one thing, but bringing a bag of coins for a dozen donuts and a couple of coffees? It turns a quick stop into a marathon, and I could practically hear the collective groan from those waiting in line.
Paying with bills or a card, especially for larger orders, speeds up the process and helps prevent errors. It's quicker and easier, and it shows consideration for the other people in line behind you.
Stick to the Tim Hortons menu
Working at Tim Hortons, I've encountered some pretty baffling requests, but nothing tops the time a customer confidently ordered an Egg McMuffin. I was just a small-town high school student, fresh into my first job, and there I was, staring blankly at this person wondering if they'd forgotten they were at Tim Hortons, not McDonald's. It's as if they expected me to magically conjure up a breakfast sandwich from a completely different restaurant.
And then there are the Starbucks fans. Oh boy, they'll strut up to the counter and rattle off orders like, "I'll have a venti soy caramel macchiato with an extra shot, light foam." I'd be standing there, wide-eyed, thinking, "Ma'am, this is a Tim Hortons." My brain would scramble to translate their request into Tims terms, all while trying to keep the line moving and my sanity intact.
For everyone's sake, stick to the posted menu. That's what's available, dorks.
Check the expiration date on your coupons
One of the most frustrating parts of working at Tim Hortons was dealing with customers trying to use expired coupons. I'll never forget the day someone pulled up to the drive-thru with a coupon from 2004, insisting it should still be valid because they "didn't see an expiration date." Context: I worked there in 2012. So, it had been a good long while since that baby had been valid.
Meanwhile, the line behind them grew longer and more impatient. As much as we try to be accommodating, expired means expired. The person at the window can't override company policies, no matter how persuasive your argument or how far back your coupon collection goes.
It's always a good idea to check those dates before you hand over a relic from the past.
Be mindful of noise levels when ordering
Now, let's talk about the drive-thru experience, which can sometimes feel like being in the middle of a rock concert.
From blaring music to barking dogs, the noise level can be a real challenge. I once had a customer whose car stereo was so loud that I could barely hear their order over what sounded like a Skrillex remix of a car alarm (he was still relevant back then, OK?). It was like trying to conduct business at a rave.
So, here's a crucial tip: If your playlist is fire, cool, but maybe turn it down or hit pause when you're ordering. It's not just a courtesy; it's a necessity.
These pro tips aren't just for laughs — they're essential for surviving the world of Tims. So, next time you're grabbing your double-double or indulging in Timbits, keep these tips in mind. They'll make your experience smoother and help you avoid being that customer.
Let's make Tim Hortons a bit more delightful for everyone, one coffee run at a time.
This article's cover image was used for illustrative purposes only.
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