Name: Namgay Lham
Cafe: Kipco tower, Kuwait City
Title: Starbucks Barista
Kuwait Starbucks Barista Champion 2019 and EMEA Runner up of the Barista Championships 2019
QUICK SPILL
My favorite coffee bean: All beans are my favorite
My equipment brand: Mastrena Espresso machine
Favorite non-dairy milk: Almond
Favorite Coffee Gadget: Pour over brewing method
Go-to coffee: Americano with cold soya milk
How many cups of coffee a day: 5 cups of Americano a day
Why did you become a barista/involved in the world of coffee?
I always liked coffee, but recognized that Starbucks was more than just a coffee brand – it had goodwill to help their farmers and there was an opportunity to learn and grow with them as an individual.
What is the most challenging thing about working with coffee?
Every coffee region has a different profile and there are many different environments to learn about – it’s vital that you understand the background of the coffee to enjoy the experience.
What’s the most complicated coffee you’ve ever ordered for yourself?
Add some mint syrup, tonic water and ice to the bottom of your cup, then top with two shots of great espresso – it tastes weirdly great!
What do you wish people knew about coffee that they don’t?
The huge commitment farmers make to grow and nurture the tiny beans which we enjoy every day. It takes about 4 years for cherries to be produced on a coffee tree and then the harvest is only once per year so the beans are so special!
What food or snack do you think goes best with coffee and why?
Milk chocolate is perfect with every coffee.
What makes a regular cup of coffee amazing?
Sharing your coffee with people whether it is customers, Starbucks partners or friends. The coffee then becomes an experience.
What does the aroma of coffee mean to you?
It makes me feel as if I’m traveling and exploring that particular region from which the coffee comes from. If you concentrate, you can smell the environment!
What is going to be the hottest trend in coffee in 2020 and why?
Of course, Starbucks Nitro cold brew, as it blends fantastic coffee and miniscule bubbles to bring the taste alive on your tongue.
