Behind The Bar With Bianka
Our “Behind The Bar'“ series highlights one of our team members, celebrating their unique contribution to the Tala experience. We believe the connection across the bar can be meaningful and impactful. Our team puts a smile on the faces of so many each day by simply serving delicious beverages and being an authentic presence in each person’s day. Learn more about what makes each person on the Tala Team unique with this personal interview.
Bianka has been a staple at Highwood, serving drinks for a few years now. After a brief hiatus, she came back in full force, splitting her time behind the bar at Highwood and behind the scenes at the Libertyville warehouse as part of the production team. Giving pink pilates princess energy everywhere she goes, it is my pleasure to introduce your barista and my friend, Bianka Jordan!
What is your position or role at Tala?
Currently, I am a Barista/Shift supervisor at Highwood and a production assistant and cold brew maker at Libertyville in the warehouse (a separate role from production assistant).
How long have you been at Tala?
About two years
How has it been working in the warehouse after your return to Tala? Compare the two workplaces.
I prefer working at the warehouse because I can do my own thing—t’s the same routine and hours each shift. I do enjoy working at the cafe and catching up with regulars and coworkers, but it can be a lot socially.
Run me through a typical day in the warehouse.
I show up, and we set up which single origin or blend we are going to roast and the number of bags needed to bag it. We work in a line, assigned to specific roles. Keith plays the music and roasts the beans, while Morgan and I bag and seal them. Then, we prep them for wholesale and send them to the cafes. Bethany (Warehouse Manager) manages the whole process, making sure it goes smoothly. And for making the cold brew, that’s on Mondays and Wednesdays from 4-6, so I usually finish up my shift in the morning, go home, then come back later in the day to work on the cold brew.
What is your favorite part about working at Tala?
The people I work with, and the friendships I’ve made along the way!
What is your favorite memory at Tala?
The holiday party! Last year, I was acknowledged for being the cleanest barista, which is a title I don’t take lightly :P
What is your favorite drink to make and to consume?
To make: a cappuccino—the latte art always slays, and it’s the perfect size!
To drink: I love to make my own syrups at home (@bustedblondey on TikTok), but my favorite currently is a matcha tonic
How would you describe your style, and what can we catch you wearing behind the bar?
Comfy but stylish…definitely an Ugg for sure (despite not being non-slip). Otherwise, I wear a lot of baggy jeans and sweaters too.
What is one topic that will always get you talking when you’re on bar?
Anything pop culture/celebrities-related, specifically Sabrina Carpenter, Timothee Chalamet, and any Irish men. Otherwise, my insane life outside of work or horror films (shout out to Highwood coworker Katie because she loves them too).
What artist or genre of music are you playing when you're the barista?
Strictly Sabrina Carpenter. Or any other pop diva.
Who is your favorite musician?
Sabrina Carpenter, Ariana Grande, and most other pop girlies
What do you do when you’re not at Tala?/what are your hobbies?
If I’m not spending time with my cat Booby or my boyfriend Jacob, I’m either putting in work at the gym (either weights, cardio, or pilates), posting on Tiktok for fun (@bustedblondey), or making something in the kitchen like drink syrups or a sweet treat. I want to get into other hobbies like making ceramics!
How would you describe yourself to someone who doesn’t know you?
I would describe myself to someone who doesn’t know me as compassionate, an animal-lover, understanding, and stylish.
What is your biggest hot take or most controversial opinion?
Cats are much better than dogs. Sorry!
What’s a goal you are working toward right now, big or small?
My next goal is to go to graduate school and become a therapist! I’m currently trying to figure out where I want to go and what kind of therapist I want to be.
What is one thing you wish you were an expert at?
I wish I were an expert at the stock market and trading—where's the money coming from? Who put it in there? When do I take it out? These are the questions I need answers to.
Do you have a secret or obscure talent?
Honestly, I am an animal whisperer. I’ve had deer come up to me, stray cats, birds, and any animal will usually come up to me. They’re just drawn to me, I guess!
If you could move anywhere in the world, where would you move to and why?
Amsterdam! The people, the town, the food…they’re definitely happier for a reason! :P
What is something you’re proud of but never get to brag about?
Honestly, I’m a really good baker and cook, and I try to be humble about it.
What’s the best thing you’ve made food-wise?
My vodka pasta—I’ve perfected her. And I WON’T tell you the secret ingredient (it’s smoked paprika).
What modern thing would freak out a Victorian child?
Buzzballs.
If you could clear a whole category on Jeopardy!, what would it be?
Serial killers…blame it on my psych degree!
Inspired by bread and wine being the body and blood of Jesus, what would be your body and blood?
Blood: the Creamy Vanilla Coke that only drops at Christmas
Body: Caesar salad and fries
Maya Johnson
Meet Maya, a Wisconsin-native who studied biochemistry/molecular biology and neuroscience at Lake Forest College. She is A friendly face behind the bar at Highwood, known for striking up conversations about truly anything. Outside of pulling espresso shots, Maya is currently in the process of applying to Physician Assistant schools.