Wataru Iidaka - Japan

2026 - WBrC - Japan

Instagram: @wataru_iidaka

Please tell us a little about yourself:

I as a barista at SAZA COFFEE. This is my fifth time competing in the Japan Brewers Cup, And my second time in the World Brewers Cup.

What are you excited to do while you visit Brussels?

I'd like to eat a delicious waffle.

What are your interests outside of coffee?

Watching baseball, and playing baseball with my family.

Is there anyone you would like to thank or recognize, or who helped you to prepare for the WCC?

SAZA team,producers,roasters,coaches,coffee friends,and my family. Thank you very much!!

What roaster do you currently roast on and how long have you been roasting coffee for?

I use LINK for competitions, And sometimes, I also roast using a 20kg Probat.

What is your favorite coffee brewing method and why?

Filter coffee, because i'm good at it.

Besides your own competition drink, do you have a favorite cocktail?

Aeropress coffee made by my daughter at my home.