Baristas Uncovered: Elliot Philips

Elliot Phillips (22) is from Queenstown and works at Wolf at the Door in Dunedin. Photo: Gregor Richardson
Elliot Phillips (22) is from Queenstown and works at Wolf at the Door in Dunedin. Photo: Gregor Richardson
You exchange daily chit-chat, the odd joke and they know what you want before you ask, but what do you really know about the person who makes your coffee every day?

Q How did you end up making coffee?

Dad used to roast it at home when I was a teenager. We had an old espresso machine in the kitchen. I just started playing around and sparked an interest from there.

Q The key to being a good barista is?

You need to have a genuine care for the coffee as well as for your customer. Make friends with your customers and you'll never feel like you're working again.

Q Weirdest drink request you've had?

Large single-shot half-soy half-almond decaf mochaccino. An absolute iconic classic.

Q What do you drink?

Always black coffee, straight to the source.

Q What does it take to make those shapes on top of a coffee?

Evenly well-steamed milk and a very steady hand!

Q Top tip for home coffee makers?

Just practise, take your time and the perfect cup will come!

Q Chemex or Cold Brew? What's your preference?

Has to be Chemex!! We have about two a day at work, although I'll never say no to a cup of Harpoon Cold Brew!

Q Would you serve coffee in an avocado shell as per Instagram trends?

I wouldn't say no, but it's not going to fit in your cup-holder.

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