"It's been an incredible moment": Gunwharf Quays Costa barista brews their way to UK and Ireland final of Costa Coffee’s Barista of the Year
Brewing their way to success is a barista who is set to go head to head against 11 finalists in the UK and Ireland final of Costa Coffee’s Barista of the Year.
Isla Harris has wowed judges over the past few months with skill, creativity and a passion for coffee over two challenging local rounds, securing a spot in the final.
Based at the Costa Coffee shop in Gunwharf Quays, Isla perfected four Costa Coffee drinks to showcase the brand’s signature taste and quality, before creating an original speciality drink - “Iced Black Pepper and Chocolate Cappuccino”.
The 21-year-old said: “I was encouraged to enter the Barista of the Year competition by my managers, who always spoke so positively about the experience and really believed in me.
“Winning regionally has been an incredible moment, but what I’m most proud of is the community I’ve built with my team members and our regular customers.
“I’d tell anyone thinking about entering next year to just go for it – it’s not as scary as it sounds, and the opportunities and connections you make along the way are so worth it.”
The UK and Ireland Barista of the Year final will take place on February 3 and 4, 2026, with the 12 finalists competing across three rounds - testing precision, creativity, and technical skill.
The three winners of the UK and Ireland competition will go on to compete in the Global Final of the competition in March, competing against 4 baristas from India, the UAE, Poland and China.