Coffee craft and passion take center stage at Asia Pacific Regional Barista Championships 2023 in Bali, Indonesia
For the first time since 2019, 15 Starbucks barista competitors from across Asia Pacific, including China and Japan, came together in person in Bali, Indonesia, the home of Starbucks Reserve Dewata Coffee Sanctuary and Coffee Experience Center.
Months of market-level competitions saw more than 3,200 partners compete for a coveted place in the regional championships.
Starbucks partners from across the region came together to celebrate coffee, connection and community-building.
The Regional Barista Championships showcase barista skill and craft, providing an opportunity to create moments of connection and storytelling over coffee, and celebrate the limitless possibilities for human connection that Starbucks baristas create every day in the communities they serve.
Each competitor is judged on their ability to perfectly prepare and present three courses – Pour Over, Latte Art and a Signature Beverage.
The competition showcases and recognizes baristas knowledge, skill and passion for Starbucks Coffee across Coffee Knowledge, Beverage Mastery and Customer Connection.
“The joy of human connection is powerful motivator for our baristas, and that spark came alive through their stories. Our green apron partners are also incredibly proud and engaged by the work Starbucks is leading across sustainability and social impact, which they brought to life throughout their presentations.”
Chris Bates, vice president, Operations, Coffee and Partner Engagement, Starbucks Asia Pacific
Anchored in the dedication to celebrating our partners’ love for coffee, the competition has evolved year-on-year, with a pivot to a virtual format during the pandemic. Now, through a combined multi-channel approach that offers the best of in-person and virtual connections, Starbucks is bringing this much-loved event to partners and customers around the world.
Three finalists competed in the Grand Final with Allen, a shift supervisor from Starbucks Taiwan market, taking home the coveted title of Regional Barista Champion 2023.
“I would like to thank all our partners in the Asia Pacific region, especially the Taiwan market. Thanks to everyone’s support, I can be here today in this competition on this beautiful island of Bali. At this moment, I feel incredibly grateful and will encourage partners to never give up and keep moving forward to pursue their dreams. One day, they will also be able to shine on the stage.”
Allen, Starbucks China, Japan and Asia Pacific Regional Barista Champion 2023
