Despite being a barista at Newbie Cafe, Daniel Bladerrama Real is no newcomer to the world of coffee.
After migrating from Cochabamba, Bolivia, to New Zealand at one-year-old, Bladerrama Real began assisting at C3 church in 2016 by serving coffee.
Here, he witnessed coffee's positive impact and how it created a welcoming atmosphere. This pushed him to seek a career in the hospitality industry and undergo barista training to continue helping the community.
"I was captivated by the art of creating intricate latte designs like horses and butterflies, which inspired me to start producing art regularly," said Bladerrama Real.
However, his love for coffee goes past latte art and expands to the feeling of belonging within a community. Forming relationships with regulars while getting occasional visits from dogs is enough motivation for Bladerrama Real to remain positive.
At Newbie Cafe, Bladerrama Real found a supportive and welcoming team that allowed him to explore his passion and grow into an expert barista. The cafe's commitment to innovation is evident in its unique menu, which features unconventional yet delicious offerings such as black sesame coffee, bubble tea, and refreshing mocktails.
Bladerrama Real shared his unique perspective when asked about the key elements of a good coffee. He believes that the perfect coffee is a personal journey, with each individual having their own unique preferences. From sweet to rich, the world of coffee is vast and diverse, and he encourages everyone to explore and find their perfect cup.
"The crucial factor lies in the grind and extraction of the shot, which distinguishes between a burnt or weak shot," explained Bladerrama Real.
"Achieving the right balance in these aspects ensures a great coffee taste, even when adding cold milk."
To unwind from the hustle and bustle of the hospitality industry, Bladerrama Real indulges in miniature painting and delving into in-depth studies of military history. He also enjoys researching recent innovations in barista machines and new latte art techniques.
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