The verdict is in: Calgary’s coffee scene just got a powerful new player. David Kim, a veteran barista and roaster with a knack for blending skill and soul into every cup, has opened Paradigm Spark—a café that’s as much about community building as it is about exceptional coffee. This isn’t just another spot to grab a latte. It’s a deliberate effort to create a space where baristas can practice, professionals can learn, and coffee lovers can connect. Kim’s vision is simple: to return the favor of the mentorship he received early in his career, now giving back to the next generation.
Paradigm Spark’s standout feature is the Experience Bar, a dynamic space where baristas brew small-batch specialty coffees in real time, inviting customers to witness the artistry behind the craft. “It’s not just about serving coffee—it’s about storytelling,” Kim explains. For baristas, it’s a rare chance to refine competition-ready skills outside of sanctioned events. The bar is open during regular hours but also hosts evening pop-ups for local pros, offering them a stage to experiment and grow. Kim knows firsthand how hard it is to find practice opportunities, especially for those juggling competitions and day jobs.
The café also houses Timberline Coffee School, a collaboration with Trent Rollings, a World Coffee Championships judge. Here, SCA-certified courses are now accessible in Calgary, eliminating the need for long commutes to Vancouver or Toronto. Kim’s partnership with Rollings ensures the curriculum is rigorous and industry-aligned, bridging gaps in professional development. Meanwhile, food pop-ups—from cream puffs by The Pastry Nerd to macarons by Colibri Cake Boutique—add a playful layer, proving that Paradigm Spark is as much about creativity as it is about coffee.
Paradigm Spark isn’t just a café—it’s a training ground for baristas, a classroom for coffee enthusiasts, and a stage for pop-up experimentation. By offering hands-on learning, real-world practice, and a space to collaborate, Kim is reshaping how Calgary’s coffee community thrives. The question is: How will you engage with this new hub?
What’s your favorite way to experience coffee—through a competition, a workshop, or a pop-up.
What’s your favorite way to experience coffee—through a competition, a workshop, or a pop-up? Share your thoughts below.
Questions & Answers
What makes this café unique?
It’s a community hub where coffee lovers connect, host events, and build relationships. The focus is on fostering connections through quality coffee and shared experiences.
Is the café open to the public?
Yes, it’s open to all. Visitors can enjoy coffee, meet locals, and participate in events. It’s designed to be an inclusive space for the Calgary coffee community.
Information sourced from industry reports and news outlets.
