BARISTA BASICS
LEARN THE CRAFT OF ESPRESSO with our Q Grader Elena
- Prepare a balanced espresso at home.
- Understand how to adjust extraction variables.
- Learn how water composition affects flavour and extraction.
- Master the basics of milk steaming.
- Develop sensory skills to evaluate and improve espresso.
- Properly clean and maintain your equipment.
NOTE: Spots are limited to 6 persons per workshop.
For special requests, please send an E-mail to [email protected] .Â
OUR BARISTA TRAINING
This semi-professional workshop is designed for home baristas who want to deepen their understanding and work with the same principles used by professional baristas. In this hands-on session, you will learn how to get the best results from your espresso machine and grinder, from setting your grinder and preparing a balanced espresso to steaming milk and maintaining your equipment. By the end of the workshop, you will have the technical knowledge, practical skills, and confidence to significantly improve the quality and consistency of your coffee at home.
Espresso physics
A great espresso depends on a careful balance of variables. During the workshop, you will learn how grind size, coffee dose, tamping pressure, water temperature, and extraction time affect flavour and consistency. We will show you how to adjust your grinder correctly and how to fine-tune your recipe to improve your results. You will also discover how water composition influences extraction and taste. Finally, we will introduce the basics of sensory evaluation, such as body, acidity, sweetness, etc. so you can assess your espresso and make informed adjustments.
Optimizing Your Setup
Good technique is only part of the equation; clean and well-maintained equipment is equally important. You will learn how to properly clean and care for your espresso machine and grinder to ensure consistent performance and extend their lifespan. We will also cover the fundamentals of steaming milk for drinks such as cappuccinos and lattes, focusing on texture and temperature. Through practical exercises, you will apply these techniques and gain confidence in using your equipment effectively.
Meet Elena, YOUR TEACHER
Elena’s coffee journey began in Russia in 2009, where she started as a barista and quickly progressed to coffee roaster. Her passion for coffee brought her to Belgium, where she found her place with us. As the roastmaster, Elena ensures that every bean you buy or taste at our shop is roasted to perfection. With a Q-grader certificate and extensive training from the Coffee Quality Institute (CQI) in roasting, barista skills, and green coffee, Elena is dedicated to sharing her knowledge.Â
Her expertise and passion for the wide range of coffee flavours and aromas drive her to innovate and maintain high standards in our coffee assortment. She has a high commitment to quality!
Meet LISA, YOUR TEACHER
Lisa’s journey with Onan Coffee & Tea began while she was still a History student at the University of Leuven. Drawn to the welcoming atmosphere and the vibrant community at Onan, she found herself unable to part ways with us after graduation. Her love for exploration led her to travel and experience different cultures around the world, but no matter where she went, all roads eventually led her back to Onan. Today, Lisa proudly refers to herself as a “Baristorian,” combining her passion for history with her expertise in coffee.
At Onan, Lisa plays a vital role in ensuring the smooth operation of the team. Her caring nature and strong organizational skills make her the go-to person for the whole team. For Lisa, coffee is more than just a drink—it’s a symbol of connection, bringing people together with every cup.
When she’s not managing the team, Lisa can be found sharing her expertise in latte art, teaching others how to create beautiful designs that make each cup a masterpiece.
Join Elena & Lisa for an insightful workshop and experience their mastery firsthand !
PRACTICAL INFORMATION
LOCATION
Onan’s Roastery: Vaartstraat 84, 3000 Leuven
LANGUAGES
DUTCH / ENGLISH : We adapt our workshop language to English or Dutch based on the group, and can easily switch between both!
TIME
Please come in time, as we have a tight schedule and we really want to offer you the best experience possible!
DRESSCODE
Dress comfortably and keep in mind coffee stains are possible!
REFRESHMENTS
Of course, we provide delicious coffee, and water!
SPECIAL REQUESTS/QUESTIONS
Please contact us by sending an E-mail to [email protected]Â
BARISTA BASICS
LEARN THE CRAFT OF ESPRESSO with our Q Grader Elena
- Prepare a balanced espresso at home.
- Understand how to adjust extraction variables.
- Learn how water composition affects flavour and extraction.
- Master the basics of milk steaming.
- Develop sensory skills to evaluate and improve espresso.
- Properly clean and maintain your equipment.
NOTE: Spots are limited to 6 persons per workshop.
For special requests, please send an E-mail to [email protected] .Â
