Mastering the Craft: Chiaki Kobayashi’s Journey to German Coffee Excellence
Meet Chiaki Kobayashi, a Tokyo transplant and senior barista at Bonanza Coffee Roasters in Berlin. Her passion for coffee has propelled her to become the 2026 German Cup Tasters Champion, a testament to her dedication and skill in the competitive world of coffee. Three years into her coffee career, Chiaki's role at Bonanza Coffee Roasters is multifaceted. She spends her days behind the bar, at the cupping table, and leading internal workshops, a blend that has become the foundation for her rapid ascent in the industry. Each competition season pushes her to learn more, refine tasting skills, and test limits…