MILLENNIUM PARK - MILLENNIUM PARK BARISTA OF THE MONTH

Adam Baldwin is the Millennium Park Barista of the Month for November/December 2006.  Adam was hired as the Assistant Manager of the MP cafe and has worked for Intelligentsia since the opening of the store in April 2006.  He has been a Barista since 2001 where he got started in Skagway, Alaska.

Adam moved to Chicago so that his partner could pursue her graduate school ambitions.  “I did some research on Chicago’s best coffee, saw Intelligentsia was where I wanted to be and turned in my resume.”  Adam’s favorite drink to make and drink is the double cortado.  “It is an elegant drink which does not mask the coffee.  Plus its small size makes it ideal for when you do not have a great deal of time to savor a larger espresso beverage.”  

Adam takes a lot of pride in what he does on a daily basis as a Barista.  “I feel that being a good Barista has a great deal of dignity.  While one can get a shoddy beverage anywhere, the care and skill required to make a proper espresso drink should be admired.  I feel a great sense of satisfaction when someone receives one of our drinks and they appreciate the craft.  I feel very lucky to work for a company that cares about coffee as much as I do.”

In his spare time, Adam likes to read and shop for records.  He also likes to be active by running, swimming and hiking, although that can sometimes be difficult in Chicago.  You can also check him out rockin’ the soccer field with his team, the All Rights!  You go, Adam.

Just an amazing traditional cappuccino.

Hammin' it up, pulling shots.

Latte Art by Adam.