Meet Tony - A Passion for Coffee and Cocktails

Who is behind the delicious cocktail recipes?

My name is Lenon, but most people call me Tony. I'm originally from Zimbabwe, I love sports, and I enjoy playing on the console now and then.

I spent half of my adult life in South Africa, specifically in Cape Town.

Even as a child, I had a passion for drinks and flavors. I was always the curious kid at family gatherings, helping the elders brew and mix our traditional beer.

You can book the next course here - I look forward to seeing you!

My Story

My journey as a bartender began when I started my career in the hospitality industry. I began working as a bartender in one of Cape Town's famous hotels.

At first, I observed the more experienced bartenders. During peak hours, I was able to assist them and demonstrate my talent. To their surprise, I was able to keep up with their pace right away.

After working as a bartender for a few months, the company offered me the opportunity to study at one of the best bartending academies. I seized this unique opportunity with both hands. I then earned my bartending certificate at "The Thirsty Academy."

Later that year, I was promoted to junior bartender. I worked for this hotel for years and established myself as one of the best bartenders there.

One day, I met a German lady who runs a jazz cocktail bar in downtown Cape Town.

The bar's concept was to change the cocktail menu every two months. This brought customers back regularly to try the new cocktails.

When she offered me the management of her bar, I decided to take on the challenge.

This job changed everything for me!

To constantly surprise guests, I had to be especially creative. At the same time, focused work was required. But I really enjoyed developing one new cocktail recipe after another.

With the idea of combining coffee and cocktails, I was able to unite two exciting worlds. This way, coffee lovers and cocktail fans both got their money's worth.

Most of my signature drinks come from homemade recipes. The ingredients can be found in any local market. 90% of them are tropical fruit flavors inspired by our local tradition. A beer brewed from corn is called "CHIBUKU" in Shona.

What prompted me to come to Germany?

Since the hospitality industry was not doing so well due to Covid-19, I decided to move to Germany. Here I can lead a better life and support my parents and my young son, Shona.

Shona is the language of my tribe and my culture. Since my son was born and lives in South Africa, I gave him this name. The name reminds him of where he comes from and the culture he carries within him. There is also a special drink that I named after him. As soon as it is perfect, I will present it to the world!

Moving to Germany was a blessing.

In November 2023, I met Nadine. She told me about her vision for The Coffee Board, and I told her about my passion as a bartender.

We realized that we complement each other perfectly and can benefit from each other. So we decided to offer a course to "The Coffee Board Community." You'll not only learn interesting facts about coffee but also mix magical cocktails with me. It's worth it!

Feel free to join me on my further journey. I would be delighted to see you at one of my workshops, meet you & have fun!

...It's never too late to learn a new skill in life...

Click here for the course!

Your Tony

Are you interested in latte art or would you like to become a home barista? Here you will find all our barista courses and coffee workshops.