Chronicles of The Travelling Master Barista: Spros2Go

By: Dave Barista

Quite possibly the best part of my job is going to cafes that have Faema machines to follow up, tailor recipes and discuss maintenance and techniques. Sometimes the visit is about training new staff, sometimes it’s about getting the best out of the beans.

Spros2Go is a new café and lounge in Vaughan, Ontario, in the new development of the Weston Road and Highway 7 area. Despite opening recently, they are already serving some of the best coffee in town. Owners Anthony and Matthew are incredibly inspired and are devoted to having the highest quality product. 

Matthew with his new FAEMA Teorema 3-Group

Co-owner, Matthew and Head Barista, Sophia both have a proficiency with espresso that matches some of the most well-seasoned baristas in the city. Today’s visit was all about tailoring their espresso recipe to get the best result from their beans: Trucillo Gran Bar. We discussed the relationship of recipe and ratio, the importance of quality, and how freshness makes a large difference in a cup of coffee. 

Sophia perfecting her tamping technique with me.

After finetuning the grinder and refining tamping techniques the espresso was coming out perfectly. I found myself drinking more than a couple of “spros”. The flavours of chocolate and hazelnut mellowed out into an irresistible dried fruit aftertaste.  

Next time you’re up in Vaughan, make sure to stop by Spros2Go for a cannoli and an espresso: a real Italian treat!

From left to right: Sophia, Head Barista, Matthew, Co-Owner of Spros2Go, myself & Dave Barista

Are you a restaurant or café owner, who wants to elevate your business with specialty coffee? Let’s discuss how! My contacts are below:

David De Sanctis (Dave Barista)

Master Barista, Consultant, Educator

Email: baristatrainer@faema.ca

Phone: 416-535-1555

FCA Barista Academy: https://www.faemaculinaryacademy.ca/faema-culinary-academy-barista-academy/

FCA Address: 672 DUPONT STREET, TORONTO, ON, M6G 1Z5, CANADA