Arnold Ungureanu
Romania
Barista School Romania

Please tell us a little about yourself: 

I like to call myself a traveler barista, once I was told that if I manage to work, travel and have fun in life, I will win. So that’s what I’m doing now, living my best life. Going with the flow of coffee. ❤️

How did you get started in coffee?:

Started as a cook overseas, after returning home I couldn’t find a kitchen to keep myself busy in, so I started hanging out with my colleagues at the bar. Back then they were doing “onions” using dry foam mostly. The way how the “cream” stayed on the top of the beverage and formed that pattern fascinated me. So told to myself: “ok, that’s what we need to do”. After a few weeks I had an interview in a well known to-go specialty shop in my city, and that’s where my journey started.

Please list the coffee competitions you have participated in, what year they took place, and your results:

My first national competition was in 2018, and I finished in 8th place if I remember right. Besides that I’ve won two local throw-downs.

What are you excited to do in Berlin?:

I’m looking forward to getting the vibe of the city, exploring, eating, and just being.

What is the most unusual vessel you have poured latte art into?:

The most unusual vessel is a 10ml coffee cup.

What is the secret to great latte art?:

Combining all my experiences from my past helps me in putting together my presentation and creating my art.

What are your interests outside of coffee?:

I love getting lost, traveling is one of my drugs. I also find joy in all the outdoor things, from sports to just laying on the grass or on the sand.

Where do you see yourself in five years?:

I don’t know where I want to be, but I do know where I don’t want to be.

Is there anyone you would like to thank or recognize, or who helped you to prepare for the WLAC?:

Thank you to everyone and everything in this world, for every single happening and every single person I’ve met in my life. I feel blessed to have my team with me since we started this.

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