Our Barista Champion's Top 3 World Performance

History made! Our champion was awarded Top 3 on the world stage, proudly representing Sharjah. Our very own finished as 2nd runner-up at the 2026 World Barista Championship over the weekend. This Top 3 achievement is the highest rank a UAE National Barista Champion has ever reached in 17 years of UAE coffee competition. The momentum that led to Top 3 was driven by the benchmark spirit moving through our cafe, our roasting room, and our people every day, and even after hours. Devoted to crafting exceptional cups where each meaningfully produced coffee can truly shine at its best and most balanced, we tune into what matters, ask intelligent questions, take bold risks to find answers, lean on each other, and refine relentlessly for excellence. Then, we start over, as often as needed, as we craft countless exceptional cups to redefine the coffee experience for the like-minded people who enjoy them the most. Ruben’s rise from the prelims, through the semis, and ultimately the Finals exemplified his unflagging discipline as Head of Coffee, distilled into the high-energy 15 minutes that comprised each round. And, within each course — milk beverage, espresso, and signature — he showcased new thinking that solves questions on bar, like: how to make the perfect match between a spectrum of coffees and milk, how to clearly tease out delicate florals and fruit notes in espresso, and how to elevate the character of an already stunning espresso to create an unforgettably gorgeous signature drink. Kudos to Ruben’s coaches and our deepest gratitude for the Panama Geisha used in the milk course, for the Panama Geisha in espresso, and for the Geisha Flower Tea in signature. Wholehearted thanks to our community for sending great energy throughout; for the chance to gather with coffee’s global greats; and to the judges for their devotion to the competition’s success. Watch Ruben’s top-tier Championship finals run via link in bio for a close look at the momentum that moves through our space.