Blue Bottle Coffee's Michael Phillips Knows How to Make the Perfect Brew
The Global Director of Coffee Culture shares his formidable insights on the humble cuppa.
LA-based Michael Phillips is an ardent champion of the bean. You’d expect nothing less from the Global Director of Coffee Culture at Blue Bottle Coffee. Recently in Singapore to host a series of coffee seminars and pour-over workshops, he shares with L'OFFICIEL HOMMES SINGAPORE on what makes coffee tick for him, his pour-over ritual, and the perfect coffee-lover gifts.
What do you love most about coffee?
What I love and find fascinating about coffee is its complexity. Even after more than 20 years in this field, there’s still so much to discover. Every cup can reveal something new — it’s an endless exploration.
Tell us the most stylish way to drink a cup of coffee.
For me, true style comes in honouring the coffee. Paper and plastic cups not only detract from the quality of the coffee, but they’re also tough on the environment. The best experience is found when you take a moment to savour it in a well-crafted ceramic or glass cup.
The best coffee experience you’ve ever had was…
One of the most unforgettable was the Blue Bottle Studio experience in Los Angeles with James Freeman and Ben Brewer. It had this almost mystical quality — it was one of those rare experiences where everything aligned. My second favourite has to be my daily morning ritual at home. My wife and I brew coffee together, and not to be cliched and say that it’s the simple things in life, but consistency truly is a key element of good coffee, and I love that I have this routine going on to set the tone for my day.
Speaking of, what is one surefire way to up our coffee game at home?
Investing in quality water, without a doubt. It’s often overlooked, but the alkalinity and mineral content of your water can really impact the quality of your coffee and make a huge difference. Since acidity is such a prominent characteristic in coffee, the right water can really bring out its best flavour notes and profiles.
Any personal rituals when it comes to pour-overs?
Pour-overs are almost meditative for me. I make it a point to just be in the moment, focusing on the process and the aroma, letting everything else pause for those few minutes.
Who do you dream of getting a cup of coffee with?
I would have loved to share a cup with Katsuji Daibo. He’s an acclaimed barista that ran Daibō Coffee Shop previously in Tokyo, and is one of the most influential figures in today’s coffee culture. His approach and philosophy toward coffee are legendary, and I think there’s an incredible amount to learn from his legacy.
Name one quintessential coffee drink for the holidays.
I’d go for a large Chemex to share with family or friends — there’s something about the ritual of preparing and sharing it that feels perfect for the season.
Lastly, what is the perfect gift for a coffee connoisseur?
I’d start with a good bag of beans, something like our Winter Blend, which brings out these fruity notes and has a warming depth that feels really fitting for this time of year. It’s the kind of coffee that reminds us there’s always something new to discover in each cup. For someone who appreciates the ritual, I would also suggest a well-made mug. A beautifully crafted piece can really elevate those simple coffee moments and make them feel more intentional.
“For me, true style comes in honouring the coffee.”
