Tomoko Yamamoto
Japan
Unir
Please tell us a little about yourself:
I am the general manager and head barista of our coffee shops & roastery, Unir in Kyoto, Japan.
What are you excited to do in Boston?:
To enjoy the WBC all the way to the end, and eat seafood!
Please list the coffee competitions you have participated in, what year they took place, and your results:
2018 Japan Barista Championship – 1st Place
2017 Japan Barista Championship – 4th Place
2016 FHA Asia Barista Challenge – 3rd Place
2015 Japan Barista Championship – 3rd Place
2014 FHA Asia Barista Challenge – 2nd Place
2014 Japan Barista Championship – 2nd Place
etc…
How do you see the coffee industry changing in the future?:
I think the coffee industry will continue to prosper in the future. However, I think the gap between high-quality coffee and commercial coffee will become wider.
Where do you see yourself in five years?:
5 years from now, I think I will be brewing coffee in my shop, surrounded by delicious coffees.
What are your interests outside of coffee?:
Eating and gardening.
Is there anyone you would like to thank or recognize, or who helped you to prepare for the WBC?:
It took me 10 years to get here to the WBC. I have so much appreciation for all the staff at Unir and for the support from all of our customers.
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