Brewing Success: The Coffee Journey of Matteo D'Ottavio

From Childhood Passion to Professional Barista

Matteo D'Ottavio's love affair with coffee began at a tender age in Italy, where he would enthusiastically brew coffee for his family using traditional moka pots and a cherished red Gaggia espresso machine. This early passion led Matteo to pursue a focused education in hospitality and catering, with a particular emphasis on coffee. By the age of 15, Matteo had already embarked on his professional journey as a barista, a role that only deepened his love for coffee and customer engagement. Each summer, he eagerly sought out opportunities to work in cafés, bars, and hotels, gathering a diverse array of experiences that would lay the foundation for his future career.

From Local Barista to International Champion

At just 17, Matteo became an "Illy Maestro of Espresso," a certification that propelled him into more prestigious roles, including working at a five-star hotel where customer service was paramount. After completing his studies, Matteo's journey took him beyond the Italian borders as he moved to London to further hone his skills. The vibrant coffee scene in London provided Matteo with a fertile ground to grow, eventually leading him to take on roles as Head Barista, Manager, and Trainer.

It was in London that Matteo discovered the world of coffee competitions. Driven by a deep-seated competitiveness and a relentless pursuit of personal growth, Matteo thrived in this environment. His hard work culminated in winning the UK Brewers Cup Championship in 2020, a title that significantly raised his profile in the coffee community. Even the challenges of the COVID-19 lockdown couldn't dampen his spirits; instead, he used this time to connect with a global audience through social media, sharing his vast coffee knowledge and expanding his network.

A Renaissance Man: The Intersection of Coffee and Technology

Matteo's curiosity and drive extend beyond coffee. His decision to study Food Technology at Bologna University opened his eyes to the intricate science behind food and beverage processing, enriching his understanding of coffee on a deeper level. In addition to his academic pursuits, Matteo explored his other passion—music—working as a sound engineer and tour manager across Europe. This period of his life not only broadened his cultural horizons but also reinforced his belief in the importance of continuous learning and adaptation in any career.

A Global Consultant with a Mission

In 2022, Matteo returned to Italy, bringing with him a wealth of experience and knowledge. He took on the role of Coffee Consultant, dedicating himself to helping coffee businesses improve their operations and product offerings. Matteo’s mission is clear: to elevate the quality and consistency of coffee across the board, whether for professional baristas or coffee enthusiasts. His consultancy work spans from advising companies on advanced coffee-making techniques to assisting manufacturers in developing better products for both B2B and B2C markets.

Matteo's approach is holistic—he believes that by improving the quality of coffee, baristas can focus more on customer service, ultimately enhancing the overall coffee experience for everyone. His journey is a testament to the power of passion, hard work, and a relentless pursuit of excellence in all facets of life.

Matteo D'Ottavio’s story is one of passion turned profession, of continuous learning, and of a commitment to elevating the art of coffee making on a global scale. His journey from a young boy brewing coffee in Italy to an internationally recognized coffee consultant is as rich and nuanced as the perfect espresso shot.