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.

Add a Comment

 

Seasons - By Alison Lambert  - Available for purchase now!

The Otago Daily Times and Alison have collaborated to bring you her first cookbook – Seasons.  

This book is the ultimate year-round cookbook. Seasons is filled with versatile recipes designed to inspire creativity in the kitchen, offering plenty of ideas for delicious accompaniments and standout dishes that highlight the best of what each season has to offer.  

 

$49.99 each. Purchase here.

$44.99 for ODT subscribers. Get your discount code here.