Caitlin McArdle isn’t just making coffee—she’s redefining how it’s experienced. From the high-octane chaos of Formula 1 events to the quiet creativity of Layers Bakery, she’s mastered the art of turning moments into memories. Her journey began with a drive-through Americano and a stubborn determination to pour more than hearts into cups. Now, she’s a European Matcha Champion, a head barista at Layers, and a force in Amsterdam’s coffee scene, where innovation meets intention.
Her days are a balancing act between worlds. At Coffee Crafters, she serves rare coffees at locations where seconds matter—think Formula 1 pit stops and Michelin-starred kitchens. Yet, in the cozy chaos of Layers Bakery, she’s crafting seasonal drinks that pair matcha with pastry flavors, ensuring every sip feels both bold and approachable. “I want guests to feel like they’re stepping into something creative,” she says. “But I’m equally obsessed with showcasing coffee and matcha in their purest form.” That means rejecting sweetened shortcuts for quality, origin, and technique.
Competition has been her compass. Winning the European Matcha Championship wasn’t just about precision—it was about embracing pressure, repetition, and the thrill of pushing limits. “Competitions taught me that growth is more important than the trophy,” she explains. Her next goal? The Irish Barista Championships, where she’ll blend her love for matcha with her passion for storytelling through coffee. Meanwhile, her collaboration with Nekohama aims to demystify matcha, proving that its earthy depth deserves a spot alongside specialty coffee.
What drives her? Curiosity. A marathon training regimen. And a dachshund named Dax, who’s her emotional anchor. “I stay motivated by the craft itself,” she says. “Coffee is always evolving, and I want to keep learning.” Her message? “Brewing technique matters just as much as the beans. Even the best coffee can taste flat if it’s not prepared right.”
What’s one coffee tradition you’d love to see evolve in 2026.
What’s one coffee tradition you’d love to see evolve in 2026?
Questions & Answers
What inspired Caitlin to start Coffee Crafters?
Caitlin was inspired by her passion for quality coffee and the desire to create a space where coffee is made with care and creativity.
How does Caitlin describe her coffee-making style?
Caitlin describes her style as meticulous, artistic, and focused on bringing out the unique flavors in each coffee.
Information sourced from industry reports and news outlets.
