Back

Riverstone's Barista Championship 2023

Share:

10 November

A Celebration Of Excellence: In a thrilling culmination of skill and passion, Friday 1st of December marked the grand finale of the Riverstone Barista competition, presented in collaboration with our coffee partners, Hej Coffee.

Our panel of judges? A dynamic fusion of coffee connoisseurs, from Riverstone’s Executives enthusiasts to our distinguished residents who appreciate the finer notes of a perfectly crafted brew!

The journey began with heated rounds across our Kensington and Fulham residences, leading five outstanding finalists to assemble at Hej’s roastery in Elephant & Castle for the ultimate showdown.

The competition comprised various challenges, including a speed round, Latte art, a signature drink presentation, and a test of general coffee knowledge.

Among the finalists were exceptional talents from both our concierge and Maria G’s teams, with participants Ahmed Tahir, Kevin Mazot, Claudia Trogu, Raffaele Ragno, and Yohannes Teklehaimanot.

Under the adept guidance of master of ceremonies Mathew Keech from Hey Coffee, and a distinguished judging panel that included one of our residents, the event unfolded with enthusiastic audience support. The competition was fierce, and the scores remained neck-and-neck throughout.

Amidst intense competition, Raffaele Ragno emerged as the crowned champion, securing an extraordinary all-expenses-paid trip for two to Turin. The prize includes flights, accommodation, meals, and an exclusive visit to the Lavazza Museum—a captivating immersion into the rich culture and rituals of coffee.

This competition not only showcased the exceptional talents of our dedicated staff team but also underlined Riverstone’s commitment to fostering a culture of excellence. As a company that values and recognises hard work, we are proud to celebrate our skilled staff team members who contribute to the exceptional service experience at Riverstone.

Here’s to Raffaele, our finalists and everyone who participated — their dedication to the craft is truly commendable!

Related Articles

Notes on Jazz: In Conversation with Sarah Weller, Head of Music at Ronnie Scott’s

Sarah Weller, Head of Music at Ronnie Scott’s, discusses the timeless power of jazz and how music creates a lifelong sense of community.

When to Downsize And How to Do It Well

Thinking about downsizing in retirement? Discover the benefits, timing, and practical steps to make a confident, considered move.

Riverstone's Remarkable Women

In honour of International Women’s Day, we celebrate the diverse expertise and extraordinary lives that shape our Riverstone. Meet four exceptional women at Riverstone defining excellence through leadership, legacy, and life experience.

Rose Wylie: The Story Behind the Cultural Icon

One of the most renowned female painters, Rose Wylie proves that there’s no such thing as slowing down.

Art history at the National Gallery

A revolution in emotion and storytelling.

An interview with Sue Teddern - confidence, craft and the creative process

Bestselling author and screenwriter Sue Teddern speaks about the creative life. Her credits include Birds of a Feather, The Archers and the novels Annie Stanley, All at Sea and The Pre-Loved Club.

A cookery class with Denise Phillips

Life at Riverstone is shaped by experiences that bring people together, read about our recent cooking class led by the talented Denise Phillips.

An audience with England cricket legends

Three cricket legends, three fascinating careers, three fantastic events - read all about them here. With Graham Gooch, Mark Ramprakash and Gladstone Small.

A lock up & leave lifestyle

At Riverstone our residents enjoy a lifestyle that many dream of: the ease of simply locking the door and stepping out into the world, whether that’s a weekend in the Cotswolds or a month in Kyoto, they can go with complete peace of mind as we take care of the details.

What is ageism?

Ageism can be felt externally through things like media and healthcare systems, or from within, in the form of self-limiting beliefs. Learn all about it here.

Subscribe to our newsletter

Filled with events, experiences and updates, our timely newsletter keeps you up to date with the very latest from Riverstone.

By ticking the box below, you consent to receiving promotional communications from Riverstone by: