We chat to Hoony Chae from The EOS Coffee, Queens Arcade in Auckland. He’s been named the NZ Meadow Fresh Latte Art Champion in 2019, 2020 and runner up in 2022, and we were keen to find out a bit more about what makes him tick.
The EOS Coffee is situated in the iconic Queens Arcade in the Auckland CBD. There’s a great vibe in this part of town, perfect for grabbing a coffee and having a wander.
They serve a delicious selection of cabinet food, and Hoony’s signature coffee blend which made up from 3 single origin beans.
“I’ve had The EOS Coffee since April 2022 so this year has been very busy getting it up and running!”
Tell us a bit about yourself.
My name is Hoony Chae, and I’m the owner and barista at THE EOS Coffee.
I’m passionate about coffee and have been in the industry for about 9 years. I was with Mojo Coffee for 7 years where I started as front of house, and a junior barista working my way up from there to more senior positions. Most recently I was the Head Barista for Mojo Auckland, and Latte Art Trainer.
I hold the 2019 and 2020 title as the NZ Meadow Fresh Latte Art Champion, and was the runner up in 2022.
What is your most popular dish?
The ham and brie baguette is a real favourite with the customers, and also our mocha muffin. It’s made with the EOS espresso blend and most customers claim it’s the best mocha muffin they’ve had!
What are your favourites from the menu?
I have two favourites, the smoked salmon and cream cheese bagel would be my number one go to, and number two would be the ham and brie baguette, toasted. YUM.
How do you drink your coffee?
I start the day with filter coffee which I brew at home. I love making filter coffee! Once I get to work I have and espresso and a flat white before I open to check the quality, and then it’s a long black in the afternoon. Usually it’s a max of 3 – 4 coffees per day, but no more, otherwise my hands start to shake!
What makes the coffee at The EOS Coffee so special?
A good expresso has a balanced acidity, sweetness and bitterness and I try to get this perfect every time. We use my custom blend which is made up of 3 single origin beans – a natural Brundi, washed Columbian and a Brazil. The flavour and taste profile is the perfect blend of fruity, nutty and chocolatey.
Does Meadow Fresh milk enhance your coffee?
I love using Meadow Fresh milk! It matches so well with my coffee blend but doesn’t overpower the flavours, has a wonderful creamy texture and performs consistently every time. I also think that Meadow Fresh milk is easy to steam, and the elasticity I can create in the micro foam is great. This makes for better latte art, and the images last longer in the cup too.
Share your favourite moment where you learnt about the art of coffee.
I’m not an artist and can’t even draw a cartoon character, but I do love coffee art. I was first inspired by seeing designs online from latte art legends around the world. I started with the basic skills which are a heart, rosetta, and tulips, and then watched hundreds of videos to learn more. I then watched the same video thousands of times and physically practiced the art design as many times as I could. The secret is to never give up, practice makes perfect!
Can you share any advice for others starting out in the hospitality industry?
1. Customer interaction is key to getting people back, people like familiarity and when a barista remembers how they like their coffee!
2. Greeting customers is key
3. Don’t be afraid to talk to customers
Is there anything else you would like us to know?
It’s been a great challenge for me to take part in various events over the years, from small throw downs to bigger events. When I first started making coffee and practicing latte art I made a goal to challenge myself and be the best barista I can be. Taking part in competitions has improved my confidence, skills and been a great way to connect with other people in our industry. My public speaking has improved, pouring latte art in front of people has got easier and I have gained so much knowledge. I am very grateful to Meadow Fresh who continue to support our community.