In our first Barista Spotlight, we sit down with Michael Shaw, an experienced barista known for his creative latte art, dedication to quality, and unyielding love for coffee. Michael shares his journey, insights, and a few tips for making the perfect cup.
Q: Tell us a bit about yourself, Michael. How did you get into the coffee world?
A: It all started during my university days. I got a part-time job at a local café, mainly to pay the bills, but I quickly fell in love with the craft of making coffee. There’s something so satisfying about turning simple beans into something that brightens someone’s day.
Q: What inspires you most about being a barista?
A: The ability to connect with people through coffee. Whether it’s creating a latte art swan or suggesting the perfect brew method for someone’s taste, it’s rewarding to see their reaction. Coffee is universal, yet it’s deeply personal.
Q: You’re known for your latte art skills. What’s your favorite design to make?
A: I’d have to say the classic rosetta. It’s elegant, timeless, and always impresses. But lately, I’ve been experimenting with tulip patterns and even some custom designs when I have the time.
Q: What’s the most important skill for a barista to master?
A: Consistency. It’s one thing to make a great cup once, but doing it every time is the true challenge. That, and understanding the science behind extraction and milk steaming—it’s a balance of art and science.
Q: Any tips for our readers who want to brew better coffee at home?
A: Absolutely! First, invest in a good burr grinder. Freshly ground coffee makes all the difference. Secondly, pay attention to water quality and temperature—filtered water at around 92–96°C is ideal. Lastly, experiment with ratios. Start with a 1:16 coffee-to-water ratio and tweak it to your preference.
Q: What’s your go-to coffee drink?
A: A flat white, without a doubt. It’s the perfect balance of bold espresso and creamy milk. When I want something more adventurous, I go for a pour-over with Ethiopian beans for those fruity, floral notes.
Q: Any funny or memorable moments from behind the counter?
A: Oh, plenty! One time, a regular customer challenged me to make latte art blindfolded. It turned out surprisingly decent, though it was more abstract than my usual work. We both had a good laugh about it.
Q: What’s next for you in your coffee journey?
A: I’d love to dive deeper into coffee roasting and maybe even open my own café one day. For now, I’m focusing on honing my skills and sharing my love for coffee with as many people as possible.
Q: Lastly, what does coffee mean to you?
A: Coffee is more than a drink; it’s an experience, a ritual, and a way to bring people together. It’s amazing how something so simple can have such a profound impact on people’s lives.
Thank you, Michael, for sharing your journey and insights with us. Your passion is inspiring, and we can’t wait to see what’s next for you in the coffee world!
Are you passionate about coffee too? Let us know your favourite brew or barista tips in the comments below!
