From business student to barista champion: Markham artist pours his way to the top

For some it is just a cup of coffee, but for a barista in Markham, it's a blank canvas.

It’s a morning routine shared by millions: a cup of coffee to start the day.

For most, it’s simple — in the cup, down the hatch, and out the door.

For Arthur Chu, the ritual is something more.

Three years ago, Chu was pursuing a business degree when a part-time job at a coffee shop sparked a competitive spirt — and changed his path.

He has since won the Canadian Latte Art Championship twice, most recently this year, earning another shot at the world’s top baristas.

“I did a lot of pencil sketching when I was younger,” Chu told CTV News Toronto.

Foamed milk has replaced those pencils, with coffee cups now his canvas.

For Chu, the work goes beyond competition. He describes latte art as a blend of storytelling and precision — with the reward being the quiet moment when someone stops to take it in.

“Latte art is more like a bonus part of your coffee,” explains Chu. “Your coffee journey starts with your eyes.”

An intricately poured stag secured his latest national title at the competition in Mississauga in February.

Chu is already looking ahead to the world championships in 2027, where he plans to debut new designs. He previously reached the semifinals in 2024.

“I feel like if I want to be more competitive on the world stage, it has to be something more for the judges,” said Chu. “I’m going to do something special. I’ll be featuring three animals; a tiger, a timberwolf, and a stag.”

His one-minute creations appear effortless, built on a technique known as “skate dragging,” which emphasizes fluid pours with minimal brushing.

Chu says his success comes down to one thing.

“I do think I’m the hardest worker,” he states, without hesitation.

He likens his routine to a “latte art gym.”

On a typical day off, he practices at least 50 pours. His personal record is 150 cups in a single day, more than nine hours spent refining his craft.

The discipline comes with limits. Chu says he caps himself at three to four cups of coffee per day.

At Markham’s Hatch Coffee Roasters, customers often seek out his award-winning designs.

“I do take requests, but if you see a line, maybe not,” said Chu, laughing. “The best part is the smile. When people take pictures, post it or tag me, it feels like my art is being appreciated.”