English speakers, especially Americans like myself, tend to be a bit more... talkative when ordering things, or really when they are out in public, in general. I would not be surprised at all if the barista asked me how I was doing, made a comment about the weather, or about my outfit/hair/etc. Of course, this doesn't mean that you have to launch into a full 5-minute conversation with the person, but responding with pleasantries ("I'm good how are you!" "I know, it's freezing!!") is typically expected. I think a normal interaction at a Starbucks could look like this: Barista: Hi! How are you today? You: I'm doing well, thanks, and you? (Pro tip - how are you is really just a formality, so saying fine...even if you are not fine... is expected) Barista: Doing well! What can I get for you?/What would you like today? You: Can I have a venti Iced Coffee, please? Barista: Unsweetened? You: No, sweetened please / Yes, please! Barista: Alright! That'll be $3.50. You: Here you go. Barista: Thanks! Have a nice day. So, some ways to avoid seeming "rude": 1. If someone asks how you are doing, it's always polite to respond (and return the question, but you don't HAVE to). Really, "how are you doing" is another way of saying "hi" for people in the states. I'd say it to people in the hallway with whom I had no intention of having a conversation. 2. "Please" and "Thank you" are polite at the end of most phrases (even in NYC, where the stereotype is that we are rude, people say please/thank you). So, instead of saying "One venti iced coffee" you can say "One venti iced coffee, please". Saying the former won't necessarily make you look rude, but it can give the impression of being a bit short-spoken. 3. Regarding "how are you": unless you are with a friend or colleague, the expectation is that you are going to say "I'm doing well" or "Fine, thanks!" Even though it seems like the person wants to get to know you, responding with "Horrible" or "Not well" may make things awkward.

"Can I have a ______, please?" "Can I get a _____, please?" "I'll have a _____, please." "I'd like a ______, please." The "can.... please" pattern is perfectly fine for friendly, polite requests. Notice that all of the examples use modal verbs. Speaking too directly (I want.../Give me...) sounds rude.

I normally just say " hi I'd like a ___ thanks." Or "hi can I please get a ___ thanks." Just replace ___ with the food or drink you would like.