The 10 Commandments of Jobsite Breakfast (and Coffee)

Because respect is brewed, not demanded.

Every jobsite has its own code of conduct—some written, some unspoken. But when it comes to the morning ritual of coffee and breakfast, there are rules older than the trades themselves. Whether you’re running scaffolding, setting block, or swinging a hammer, here are the 10 Commandments of Jobsite Breakfast every crew should live by.

1. Thou Shalt Not Take the Last Donut Unless Thou Brought Them

This is the Golden Rule of jobsite breakfast. If you didn’t bring the box, that last glazed isn’t yours. Bonus points if you replace it later in the week with a fresh dozen—or kolaches.

2. Honor the Coffee Maker and Keep It Clean

Don’t leave coffee grounds all over the counter. Don’t walk off with the last cup and not start a new pot. The crew coffee maker is sacred—treat it with the reverence it deserves.

3. Thou Shalt Not Touch Another Man’s Thermos

Coffee thermoses are like tools—personal, sacred, and off-limits. If it’s not yours, don’t touch it. Don’t even look at it too long.

4. Remember the Breakfast Taco and Keep It Holy

Nothing boosts morale like a bag of tacos on a Friday morning. Eggs, bacon, chorizo—it doesn’t matter what’s inside as long as it’s shared. If you forget to bring napkins, no one will remember. If you forget salsa, no one will forgive you.

5. Thou Shalt Not Complain About the Brand of Coffee

Is it fancy single-origin? Probably not. It’s jobsite fuel, not café art. If it’s hot and it keeps you moving, give thanks and drink up.

6. Thou Shalt Not Ghost the Breakfast Rotation

If your name’s on the list, you bring breakfast when it’s your turn. “Forgot” is not an acceptable excuse. Bonus points for showing up early with something warm.

7. Thou Shalt Not Microwave Fish 

There are few unforgivable sins on a jobsite. This is one of them. Just… don’t.

8. Thou Shalt Not Bogart the Creamer

That hazelnut creamer doesn’t belong solely to you. Share it. Or better yet, bring a gallon of your own and earn hero status.

9. Thou Shalt Keep the Cooler Cold

If you’re in charge of the cooler, ice it like your reputation depends on it. Warm Gatorade is a morale killer.

10. Thou Shalt Bring Extra for the Apprentices

Every seasoned tradesperson remembers being the new guy (or gal). Bringing an extra burrito or coffee for the apprentice? That’s how you pass on more than skills—you pass on the culture.

Breakfast is more than food—it’s a job-site fellowship. A shared meal and a strong cup of coffee can set the tone for the whole day. Respect the breakfast commandments, and you’ll have a happier, more productive crew (and maybe even someone else buying next Friday).