Lucy Huong Quach's decade-long odyssey in the coffee world is a compelling narrative of passion and perseverance. Beginning her journey in Vietnam and culminating in the establishment of her own unique café, Humpback Whale Specialty Coffee, in Munich, Lucy has sculpted a distinctive presence within the industry. Her career is punctuated by significant achievements, including triumphing as the German Cup Tasting Champion in 2025, underscoring her deep connection and dedication to the craft. Lucy’s story transcends mere business; it's about transforming a personal passion into a welcoming sanctuary for coffee aficionados.

An Illustrious Career Brewed in Passion and Precision

In July 2025, the global coffee community turned its attention to Munich, Germany, where Lucy Huong Quach, a celebrated figure in the specialty coffee scene, unveiled her latest venture, Humpback Whale Specialty Coffee. This intimate establishment, far from a conventional business, embodies Lucy's philosophy of coffee as a medium for connection and warmth. Her journey, which began over a decade ago with a simple barista course in Vietnam, has seen her ascend through national and international competitions, including a notable victory as the 2025 German Cup Tasting Champion.

Before dedicating her life to the aromatic world of coffee, Lucy pursued a career as a Telecommunications Engineer, a testament to her versatility and adventurous spirit. Her transition from the precise world of engineering to the art of coffee-making was driven by an unyielding love for the beverage itself. At Humpback Whale, Lucy personally curates an experience designed to be both cozy and profoundly personal. Each element, from the handcrafted ceramic cups to the carefully selected coffee varieties, reflects her meticulous attention to detail and her desire to foster genuine interactions.

Lucy’s innovative approach extends to her ongoing exploration of coffee, continually experimenting with different varieties and origins. She finds immense joy and motivation in this creative process, viewing each new discovery as a personal triumph. Her competitive spirit, honed through various championships, including the Vietnamese AeroPress and Barista Championships, fuels her pursuit of excellence. These competitions, far from being just about winning, serve as platforms for growth, learning, and expanding her network within the vibrant coffee community.

Beyond her professional endeavors, Lucy harbors a keen interest in the upstream aspects of coffee production, particularly farming and processing. Her aspiration to one day retire on a coffee farm underscores her holistic appreciation for coffee, from bean to cup. She envisions future projects and collaborations that promise to further enrich the coffee landscape, embodying her continuous quest for innovation and connection.

For Lucy, the essence of coffee lies in its ability to ground individuals in the present moment. Her café, Humpback Whale Specialty Coffee, stands as a testament to this belief, offering not just a beverage, but an experience—a comforting embrace that brings people together, one exquisite cup at a time.

Lucy Huong Quach's remarkable trajectory from a telecom engineer to a revered coffee artisan offers a profound lesson on the power of passion. Her story reminds us that true fulfillment often lies in daring to pivot towards what genuinely ignites our spirit. It’s an inspiring narrative that speaks volumes about dedication, continuous learning, and the profound impact one individual can have by infusing their work with love and authenticity. In a world often driven by trends, Lucy's commitment to creating a personal, heartfelt coffee experience stands as a beacon for aspiring entrepreneurs and coffee lovers alike.