What methods can be used to check the temperature of drinks?

Using a thermometer or feeling the cup is the most reliable method for checking the temperature of drinks. A thermometer provides an accurate measurement of the beverage's temperature, ensuring that it meets safety standards and customer preferences. This tool helps baristas serve drinks at the ideal temperature, especially for hot beverages like coffee and espresso.

Feeling the cup can give a rough estimate of the temperature; a cup that feels very hot is likely holding a hot beverage, while a cool cup indicates a cold drink. However, this method is more subjective and may not provide precise information.

In contrast, pouring the drink into a different cup does not reflect the drink's current temperature; instead, it can introduce variables such as the temperature of the new cup. Judging by customer satisfaction is not a reliable method since customers may have varying perceptions of temperature based on personal preferences, and this approach doesn't provide immediate, measurable feedback. Using an ice cube to test cooling is also ineffective as it changes the drink's temperature rather than accurately assessing it. Thus, the best approach to check the temperature is through the use of a thermometer or by feeling the cup for an immediate gauge.