Espresso on the go: Wanel preparing coffee on his motorcycle in a parking space in Seberang Jaya. — ZHAFARAN NASIB/The Star
Barista crafts artisanal brews from his motorcycle
BUTTERWORTH: Barista hawker Wanel Zynee, 30, brews espressos, Americanos, macchiatos, even piccolos and a myriad of different coffees directly on his modified 2007 110cc Honda EX5 Dream motorcycle.
His mobile “stall” boasts a tiny tap, sink, and a camp stove powered by a small butane gas canister for boiling water.
He even has a little electronic scale with which he weighs exactly 250g of water for a good cuppa.
Serving suburbs across mainland Penang, Wanel offers coffee at prices far below normal cafes, like RM7 for an iced Americano or RM10 for a Spanish latte.
“Making the perfect cup of coffee has been my passion for years.
“I once had a coffee stall, but it didn’t do well. Then I realised I had to be mobile, to reach coffee lovers directly,” he said.
His inspiration came from watching online videos of baristas in Indonesia and Thailand making coffee on motorcycles.
Wanel carefully studied the techniques and built a similar motorcycle-stall himself. It helped that he is also a handyman.
“It’s essentially a wooden box that takes up the whole of the motorbike’s rear seat. When I flip open the lid across the front seat, I have a spacious counter top to work on,” he said.
On a typical evening, Wanel carries enough supplies to make about 80 cups.
His unique, handcrafted coffee preparation attracts attention and has led to invitations to cater open-air wedding dinners and social events.
He’s also willing to accommodate special requests, like orange or sparkling Americanos, even if they’re not on his regular menu.
“You must be consistent and diligent in the F&B line.
“When you are always there for people who want your food or beverage, you will get a long line of loyal customers,” he said.
