Alistair Seetho
Singapore
One Man Coffee
Please tell us a little about yourself:
Coffee only came into my life 5 years ago—I wasn’t into coffee until I started working in a Cafe during my study break in University. Now I am pursuing my passion and career with One Man Coffee. I got interested in latte art 3 years ago when videos and techniques started being shown widely on social media and YouTube. I’ve met some really great baristas on my coffee journey and am passionate and very determined to learn and improve from them. I would love to share and spread these skills with people like me who are so interested in learning.
How did you get started in coffee?:
I started getting into coffee when I was working on service and in the kitchen of a cafe. A couple of months later, our head barista was short of staff and asked if I would be interested in learning. I agreed immediately and took up the role as a barista. I was taught after a few weeks of training behind the bar. As time passed, I learned to get into the groove and started doing making great coffee for our customers.
Please list the coffee competitions you have participated in, what year they took place, and your results:
2018 Singapore Latte Art Championship – Champion
2018 Food and Hotel Asia Latte Art Showdown – Champion
2017 Singapore Latte Art Championship – 2nd Runner Up
What are you excited to do while you are in Brazil?:
Explore the local food scene, attractions, and coffee farm.
What is the most unusual vessel you have poured latte art into?:
A portafilter.
What is your secret to making great latte art?:
The secret is no secret, everyone have the skills to be as good as anyone. I personally think we need to believe in our own skills, and understand every aspect from coffee shots to milk steaming. Lastly, learning the basic pouring techniques helps (heart, tulip, rosettas and cup tilting etc. )
What are your interests outside of coffee?:
Learning the food culture and explore more cuisine. Hiking up mountains and trail tracks in the forest.
Where do you see yourself in 5 years?:
Still on a path related to the coffee industry, but spending less time behind the bar. Managing a team that do great coffee and have great service standards.
Is there anyone you would like to thank or recognize, or who helped you to prepare for the competition?:
My Fiancé (Joanne), My family, and One Man Coffee (Irving & Cindy).
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