Barista of the Month - Ryan, Hot Shotz Coffee Bar - March 2026

Meet Ryan from Hot Shotz Coffee Bar, our Barista of the Month for March! Ryan serves every cup with skill, heart, and a smile, believing great coffee can truly make someone’s day.

What’s your name and where do you work?
My name is Ryan and I work at Hot Shotz Coffee Bar in Hope Island Marketplace.

How do you start your day before a shift?
My shift starts at 6:30am, so it’s pretty much wake up, shower, and head straight to work.

What’s your favourite part of working at the café?
I enjoy coffee and talking with customers. I believe a good coffee and a smile can truly brighten someone’s day.

Do you have any tips for perfecting latte art?
A good espresso shot, silky textured milk, and putting your heart into every cup.

What’s your favourite Paradox blend or origin, and why?
My favourite Paradox blend is Penny Lane because it pairs perfectly with milk. I also love the Lychee Cold Brew, which is always sold out.

How do you dial in the coffee each morning?
I follow the Paradox recipes and make small adjustments based on the day’s weather, like temperature and humidity, to achieve the best espresso shots.

What do you look for when adjusting the grind?
I look for consistency in the espresso shots and adjust the grinder following that day’s recipe.

Do you prefer filter or espresso at home, and why?
I enjoy filter and pour over at home or when dining out because I love experiencing different single origin tasting notes and new brewing methods.

What’s your go-to coffee order when you’re not working?
Filter or pour over so I can explore different single origins and really taste the flavour notes.

What’s a fun fact most people don’t know about you?
I was never a coffee person before becoming a barista. Now I can’t function without coffee every day.

Give Ryan a visit @hotshotzhopeisland and say hello!