Eduard Inocencio: A 1-Hour Commute That Changed Qatar’s Coffee Scene

John Eduard Salem Inocencio’s journey in coffee began with a simple yet defining decision: leaving the comfort of a coffee chain job just 15 minutes from his home to work at a specialty coffee shop an hour away. “I remember showing my grit to my parents,” Eduard recalls. That daily one-hour commute may have seemed excessive to others, but for Eduard, it was a commitment to a dream that would later reshape Qatar’s growing coffee scene.

HUDES | Worldwide Specialty Reading for Manual Coffee Brewers

Eduard’s passion for coffee grew during his years in the Philippines, where he gained his first experience behind the bar. In 2017, an opportunity called him to Qatar. He joined a café better known for its chocolates than its coffee, where dark, oily beans were the norm. But Eduard’s vision was clear from the start.

John Eduard Salem Innocencio

“When the owner asked me about specialty coffee, I said yes, I was ready to begin the journey toward quality,” Eduard says. From sourcing the right equipment to finding reputable coffee suppliers, he brought his experience from the Philippines to shape the coffee shop program. 

Over time, he immersed himself in Qatar’s budding coffee culture, connecting with friends and fellow baristas who shared the same passion. Together, they built a small but growing community that thrived on innovation and collaboration.

Eduard’s competitive spirit has always been a driving force in his career. After placing second in the inaugural Qatar Brewers Cup and third in the next, he returned to the competition with renewed determination in 2025. “With God’s presence, I overcame the negative spirit and overthinking,” he says to Hudes.

For his winning brew, Eduard chose the Origami Air dripper, a tool he loved for its lightness, durability, and temperature stability. “When I choose my weapon in a battle like this, I make sure it’s something I genuinely like,” he explains. 

That authenticity, paired with his technical skill, earned him the title of Qatar Brewing Champion and a ticket to represent the country at the World Brewers Cup 2025 in Jakarta.

As the world stage approaches, Eduard’s preparation is grounded in respect, for the craft, the competition, and the champions he will meet. “I’m preparing by respecting the game, understanding the work of others, and not being complacent,” he shares. 

His approach reflects the same humility and drive that have guided him throughout his career, and he sees the competition not just as a challenge, but as a celebration of the craft he loves.

For Eduard, coffee isn’t just about technique or flavor; it’s a medium for connection. Some of his most treasured moments come from customers who return to thank him by name after enjoying his coffee. “As a human being, receiving acknowledgment like this while doing what I love will forever be nourishing,” he shares.

Eduard believes in sticking to the fundamentals of brewing, a philosophy that has opened doors to innovation and growth. “By mastering the basics, I’ve learned to listen and adapt to other brewers who fearlessly create their own approaches.”

Looking ahead, Eduard sees a bright future for specialty coffee in Qatar and the Middle East. He envisions a community driven by compassion and education, with innovation playing a central role in enhancing the coffee experience. “Elevating the coffee culture to meet growing demand is essential,” he adds.

“In Qatar, Arabic coffee, or qahwa is such a big part of their culture,” Eduard shares. “It’s not just a drink; it’s a way of showing hospitality and respect. You’ll see it served in those little handle-less cups, usually during family gatherings or when guests visit. It’s one of those traditions that really ties people to their heritage.”

He pauses, then adds, “What’s cool is how specialty coffee is starting to make its mark here too. You’ll find these small coffee carts or kiosks popping up, and they’re even being invited to big celebrations like holidays or traditional ceremonies. It’s like they’ve found a way to bring something new into these old, established customs.”

Eduard smiles as he reflects. “I think that’s what makes coffee culture in Qatar so special, it’s a mix of honoring the past while embracing the present. Coffee here is more than just a drink; it’s part of their identity, constantly evolving but always grounded in tradition.”

Eduard’s story is a reminder of the power of perseverance and passion. His advice for aspiring baristas is simple yet profound: “Remain humble, there is always someone better than you. Thank God for every bit of progress, and never let a day pass without brewing or tasting coffee.” He also encourages young professionals to maximize their time with technology, using it to expand their knowledge and vocabulary about coffee.

From a one-hour commute that marked the start of his journey to becoming Qatar’s Brewers Cup champion, Eduard Inocencio’s story is one of dedication, vision, and resilience. As he prepares to take his craft to the world stage in Jakarta, Eduard reminds us that the smallest steps, like a long commute, can lead to extraordinary places. (hudes)