This next bit of intelligence is for coffee junkies. Researchers recently surveyed baristas and asked them to share their insider secrets. Here are the results:

• First: Need an energy boost? Don't be so quick to grab a venti. If you need an extra dose of caffeine, then you can order a bigger regular drip coffee. But the same rule doesn't apply for more complicated drinks, like a caramel macchiato. That’s because larger mixed coffee drinks are often topped off with extra milk or foam instead of extra espresso. For example, the caramel macchiato has 2 shots of espresso whether you get a grande or a venti. So, if you need a bigger jolt, order more espresso.

• Then, did you know about the secret menu? Most coffee shops have a few unlisted drinks, and a lot of baristas can make off-the-list ones. So what's popular in the undercover coffee world? Insiders say that the 2 most popular Starbucks secret drinks are the Dirty Chai - that’s a chai latte with a shot of espresso. And the Black Eye - that’s coffee plus two shots of espresso. 

• Also, you can save money by creating your own budget latte. How? Order a double shot of espresso in a larger size cup, then pour in free milk at the condiments counter.

• And the final barista secret: They “decaf” rude customers who’ve asked for regular. But most baristas know better when it comes to doing the opposite, since substituting caffeinated coffee for decaf can be a health risk.