Baristas Uncovered: Gemma Thomson

You exchange daily chit-chat, the odd joke and they know what you want before you ask, but what do you actually know about the person who makes your coffee every day?

Gemma Thomson has been crowned the top barista for the Night ’n Day chain of stores.  In the finals, she and two other finalists had to make five randomly chosen cups of coffee in seven minutes.

Gemma Thomson has been crowned the top barista for the Night ’n Day chain of stores. In the finals, she and two other finalists had to make five randomly chosen cups of coffee in seven minutes. Photo: Linda Robertson
Photo: Linda Robertson

Q How did you end up making coffee?

I had never made a coffee before starting at Mornington Night 'n Day in 2014. Once we got a new barista machine, I was interested to learn more.

Q Key to being a good barista is?

Having a love for coffee helps. Knowing what your customers want - half the time they don't know what they want.

Q Weirdest drink request you've had?

Six sugars in a flat white ... I mean, can you even taste the coffee?

Q What do you drink?

Classic flat white.

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

Practice. A little flick of the wrist, and smooth milk helps.

Q Top tip for home coffee makers?

Stove percolator + electric heated milk frother = perfect every time.

Q Chemex or Cold Brew?

Espresso.

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

Avocado and coffee shouldn't go together.

 

Each month Fresh will profile a barista, so if you want to know more about the person who serves you your daily fix, email features@odt.co.nz with their name and place of work.

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