The Road to the World Barista Championships: Michalis Katsiavos

Michalis Katsiavos, a man who is hugely passionate about coffee and also Greece's Barista Champion, answers our questions ahead of competing as a competitor in the World Barista Championship at World of Coffee in Amsterdam. You can follow his journey on Instagram: @michaliskatsiavos

The WBC competition will take place at the Amsterdam World of Coffee on 21st to 23rd June this year. 

When did you fall in love with coffee? 
I liked drinking coffee from an early age. When I started working as a barista, I was always trying to understand and take control of all the variables that affect the finished product, so as to serve delicious coffee. That was the time I fell in love with coffee. 

What was your first coffee job? 
My first coffee job was about 8 years ago, working as a barista at a micro-roastery in Athens. 

If you didn’t work in coffee, what would you do? 
I have never thought of myself not working in coffee. 

What exceptional coffee will you be using in the WBC in Amsterdam? Tell us about the coffee and what it tastes like.
The coffee I will be using is a geisha variety from Panama, from the well-known Finca Deborah. I feel more than lucky that I had the opportunity to visit this farm and be a part of it. It’s a really delicious coffee, with fruity notes of berries. I’m looking forward to serving this coffee at the WBCs in Amsterdam. 

Who would you most like to make coffee for and why? 
I don’t think there is someone specific. But I can say what intrigues me is serving someone who usually says, “I don’t like coffee” and finally changes their opinion. 

Who would play you in the story of your life? 
To tell you the truth, I don’t know. I have never thought about that. 

If you opened a café today what would be on your first playlist? 
Definitely the “Lily of the Valley” – such a relaxing song. 

What’s your favourite way to make coffee? 
It’s hard to me to just pick one way. I love making coffee and finding the best way to make it delicious. 

What are you most excited about in coffee? 
The most exciting thing in coffee, for me, is that from just a small coffee bean you can feel so many different feelings and emotions.