Chris Kwong
Hong Kong
Craft Coffee Roaster

Please tell us a little about yourself: 

I’ve been working in the Hong Kong coffee scene as a barista for four years, and I am thankful to be part of its development into a world class industry with a lot to offer. I really enjoy working with others to discover new brewing theories and techniques, and sharing the results with others around me.

What are you excited to do in Boston?:

It will be my first time in the US, so I’m excited to explore this historical city and eat a lot of good food. I also really want to taste coffee from local and international brewers, especially from the other national champions.

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

2016 World Cup Tasters Championship – 11th Place, Semi-Finals
2019 Hong Kong Brewers Cup – 1st Place

How do you see the coffee industry changing in the future?:

The coffee industry has a lot to benefit from the rate that technology is advancing, especially in the areas of coffee farming and processing. I look forward to seeing the resulting improvements in coffee plant cultivation to continue producing stable, quality beans. I think the industry is moving away from a very singular style of coffee experience into an environment where producers and brewers can choose and explore their own styles to share with their customers.

Where do you see yourself in five years?:

I want to continue to learn more about the roasting process, because to me, roasting is one of the key parts that leads to an excellent cup of brewed coffee. When you understand the roasting techniques and their effects on green beans, it can help you create a more stable product for your customers. Along with coffee farming and processing, are all important areas that I want to explore more deeply in the next five years.

What are your interests outside of coffee?:

Eating good food and trying new flavors whenever I can.

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

I really want to thank the Hong Kong Professional Coffee Association, judges, sponsors and volunteers for all of their work to make our national championships possible. I’m also thankful of Lok Chan and the team at Craft Coffee Roaster for supporting me to get onto the world stage again. I’m very grateful for my friends, especially Adam, Lo, Karen, and Stephen, who have constantly provided help and feedback—I wouldn’t be where I am today without the people around me.

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