National university barista champion Pari Nepal from Imperial has been trying out his award-winning blend on members of Imperial's senior team.

Pari was crowned national university barista champion at a competition in Blackpool on 17 March that attracted the best catering staff from across UK higher education institutions.

A dedicated team from Campus Services – comprising baristas Pariwartan Nepal and Andrea Galanska, and chefs Stevan Bedward, Steve Robertson and Andy Crook – made the trip up to Blackpool to take part in the finals of The University Caterers Organisation (TUCO) 2015 competition.

In a fiercely competitive field, barrista Pari Nepal showed rock-solid composure in a set of timed skills challenges and wowed the judges with his signature creation to claim the gold medal in the barista catergory.

“Having competed last year I knew what to expect this time round and I put in hours of preparation and hard work. Thanks to the support of my Imperial colleagues and Peros Coffee Company we succeeded and my dream came true,” said Pari.

His signature creation ‘Smooth Passion’ is a rich and creamy blend of star anise infused espresso, passion fruit, lime and hint of vanilla.

“I originate from Nepal where we use lots of different spices in our food and drinks. I wanted to bring a part of my culture to this particular drink whilst creating an unforgettable flavour. I also drew inspiration from the popularity of our own bubble tea at Imperial. The mixture of these ingredients gives the drink very special aroma.”

Pari also has the opportunity to make his signature coffee for members of Imperial's senior team, including President Alice Gast and Provost James Stirling, in April.

Jemma Morris, Head of Catering Operations, added: “We’re extremely proud of Pari’s achievement, it perfectly reflects his tireless enthusiasm and passion to deliver that little bit extra for staff, students and guests to Electrical Engineering Café.”

Sadly Pari's compatriots in Nepal and members of his family were affected by the devastating recent earthquake in the country. Colleagues in campus services are currently appealing for funds via charity boxes and postal forms at tills at catering outlets.