Narrowed down from 84,000 baristas, Nobuki of Japan has earned the title of Starbucks Global Barista Champion.

On Wednesday, June 11, twelve regional champions from around the world took part in the Starbucks Global Barista Championship, participating in competitions from blind coffee tastings and latte art to demonstrating their artistry behind the cup.  

Nobuki won as the culmination of more than a year’s worth of local and regional competitions and an initial pool of 84,000 global baristas. As a nine-year partner, he has worked at a Reserve Bar and core stores and is currently a store manager in Hokkaido.

“During this competition, I demonstrated everything that I have – craft and passion,” Nobuki said, following the competition.    

Nobuki will get to visit all six Starbucks Reserve Roasteries around the world – and will have the opportunity to co-create a beverage that will be served in Starbucks coffeehouses in the near future.

This moment kicked off day two of Starbucks Leadership Experience 2025, where over 14,000 leaders participated to hone their coffee craft and customer service standards.