KOCHI:
The first ever Barista competition in the city was held at Grand Hyatt Kochi Bolgatty on Tuesday December 10th, 2019.
The event was conducted in collaboration with global brand Lavazza to establish a lasting professional coffee culture in Kochi, and to promote the growth, excellence and recognition of the barista profession. The 8 talented baristas from various luxury hotels and upscale restaurants in Kerala competed in 3 qualifying rounds.
They were judged by an expert panel that included Sandeep Shirke , Associate vice President – Food Service & Exports, N. Rajaraman, Associate Vice President-Quality, Girish C.,Manager- Sales and training, Anish Kuttan, Director of Operations, Grand Hyatt Kochi Bolgatty and Oneal Sabu, Food blogger and Author.
Safar Asharaf from Grand Hyatt Kochi Bolgatty bagged the winning title and Jibi Varghese from Food Stop Diner was the first runner-up.
“We are delighted to host city’s first Barista competition at our property. The event, organised in partnership with Lavazza, has created a platform to bring up the baristas from luxury hotels and restaurants in Kochi. It is exciting to watch talents who has mastered the technique and craft in coffee brewing. I am sure such competitions will broaden the landscape of coffee industry and bring up passionate baristas,” said Shrikant Wakharkar, General Manager, Grand Hyatt Kochi Bolgatty.
