Project Description
Switzerland
Mathieu Theis
MAME
SwitzerlandPlease tell us a little bit about yourself:
I started my coffee journey as home barista. Step by step the hobby transformed into passion. 4 years ago, I started to compete in Barista. Since then the virus of coffee never left me. 1 year ago, I quit my job and opened a coffee shop in Zurich called MAME to transfer my passion of coffee to customers.
What are you excited to do while you are in Amsterdam?:
I love walking along the numerous canals in city, so I can’t wait to do that. Amsterdam has so many cool shop for Design, Clothes and of course cafés.
Please list the coffee competitions you have participated in, what year they took place, and your results:
2015 Swiss Latte Art Championship – 1st Place
2016 Swiss Barista Championship – 1st Place
2016 WBC Dublin – 50th Place, Round One
2017 Swiss Barista Championship – 2nd Place
2018 Swiss Barista Championship – 1st Place
Is there anyone you would like to thank or recognize, or who helped you to prepare for the WBC?:
Since my coffee competition journey started, Emi Fukahori has always been behind me. She is also a Swiss Barista Champion which helps a lot. She has always supported me and made me a better barista. This year, I’ve asked Ben Put to help me improving my barista skills. Beyond the excellent expertise from Ben, he is also such a wonderful human being that I simply enjoy spending time with. Finally, I would like to thank all the friends / customers whose dedicated time to judge my routine, provide feedback and drank so much coffees.
How do you see the coffee industry changing in the future?:
The rise of stars in our industry is happening. I see more and more coffee tourism where coffee lovers go to Oslo to visit Tim Wendelboe or in LA to visit GO GET EM TIGER or in Taiwan to visit Simple Kaffa. This is, I think, great news as it triggers more recognition for our industry like the 3 star Michelin Chesf in restaurants. That path to excellence is a good news as it inspires people around the world to continue to grow.
Where do you see yourself in 5 years?:
Still learning about coffees. I’ve so far explored only the Barista part but I would like to explore the other faces like Roasting and Farming.
What are your interests outside of coffee?:
I’m generally very interested on food and beverages. I’m particularly interested in bread, specifically in baguettes. It’s actually quite hard to make a good baguette 😉 I’m also interested in Japanese cuisine, I’m totally in love with Gyozas and Ramen which I try to make every Sunday.
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