Parisi’s Pete Licata talks about what happens after you’re named the best barista in the world

• Parisi
• Licata holds the trophy he won in Melbourne.

After eight years on the competition circuit, Pete Licata is walking away as the best barista in the world. The quality assurance manager for Parisi Coffee won the World Barista Championship held on May 26 in Melbourne, Australia. The Pitch caught up with Licata, 34, via e-mail to find out what’s next now that he’s once again mixing up drinks stateside.

The Pitch: What’s it like to the best barista in the world?

Licata: To be honest, I don’t think it has sunk in yet. The world title is one that I have sought for so long, and now that I have it I am a little in shock! To me it does mean a few things. My perspectives are valued by the industry, and I am now a representative for people worldwide who love specialty coffee. It is an honor and a privilege.