Ricky Laxa, Staff Writer
The International Culinary Arts launched its newest course ‘Barista’ at its premises last week. The course , which is of two months duration, seeks to equip would-be- baristas with skills and knowledge that include essential information and know-how techniques on coffee-making through hands-on classes. The course is spearheaded by JM Magno and Dondon Retardo in collaboration with Monin of Food Choice Company in Kuwait.
In a brief interview with The Times Kuwait, Magno highlighted the vital role of baristas in a coffee serving business especially in Kuwait where coffee is an essential food element. The event course kicked off with Retardo showcasing a minute of flairtending techniques followed by a brief introduction of each Master Trainers. The two and half hour’s lecture explained several important topics such as health protocols in and out of work, history of coffee, roles of a barista and more. Several questions were also raised by attendees as well from the trainers. When asked as to why they prefer to be baristas, the majority responded with their plans to open their very own businesses back home and that knowledge is vital to running the business.
“Being a chef who is equipped with skills and knowledge of the cuisines I offer in my restaurant is equally as important as acquiring education and expertise in learning barista skills should I decide to include in my list coffee and other drinks, and with that motivation I found the need to attend this course,” stated Chef Noor Jaripha Lomondot, spouse of the Philippine Ambassador to Kuwait. Lomondot also added that such a course is a privilege and uncommon to find in Kuwait and that everyone with an interest and passion to run their own businesses or employment later, should attend.
Magno stated that the course is primarily composed of different phases but complement each other from the most essential information to interesting hands-on sessions with coffee as main element, however smoothies and milk teas will be included in the list of items. “We are excited to lead this team of baristas and inspire them to be the best in this field and what better way to return this benefit is for them to be successful in their own businesses in the future,” added Magno. Retardo added that the knowledge they will acquire from the classes will be essential and vital and that experience and putting these into practice will enhance their skills.
Registration is currently on going for the Saturday and Thursday classes and for more information, interested individuals can visit International Culinary Arts at the mezzanine floor of Al Salam Mall in Salmiya or they can call: 55039861 / 65846987
