Green Island

Baristas from 13 Asia-Pacific markets gather in Manila; Hong Kong and Macau representative wins RBC

On October 29, Starbucks Japan looked back on the Regional Barista Championship (RBC), held in Manila, Philippines, from September 30 to October 2, 2026. Twenty-five baristas from 13 Asia-Pacific markets demonstrated pour-over coffee, latte art and original beverages within 15 minutes, explaining coffee origins, flavors and their service philosophy in English. Seven, representing Hong Kong and Macau, won the championship; Japan's representative 渡邉 reached the final eight, while 山口 received the Best Pour Over Coffee Award. The article describes the two Japanese representatives' preparations, beverage concepts and service experiences. The competition has concluded; this is an official post-event story, not an announcement that the creative beverages will be offered in stores.