Meeting Yunxian Li, also known as Xianxian, a barista at Café Modori in Guangzhou, was a completely serendipitous experience—one that reminded us how coffee connects people who share a true passion for this beverage.
After the bustling Shenzhen Hotelex, we spent two unforgettable days in Guangzhou, guided by Xianxian and her partner Lin. Despite their busy schedules and an upcoming competition, they graciously used their day off to show us around the city. Their generosity and kindness left an indelible mark on us.
Our journey began with a tour of Guangzhou’s vibrant coffee scene. Yunxian introduced us to coffee training schools, innovative coffee-based cocktail bars, and charming local coffee shops. We ended the day with a hearty local chicken pot dinner, laughing and sharing stories about our mutual love for coffee. It’s moments like these that reinforce the idea that coffee is more than a drink—it’s a bridge that brings people together.
Yunxian and Lin’s warmth extend beyond their hospitality. Standing behind the bar at Café Modori, she finds joy in connecting with customers, sharing conversations, and creating a special bond through coffee. For her, every day is an opportunity to meet new people and experience something unique. She explained that Café Modori, named after the Korean word for “scarf,” represents warmth and coziness—qualities that align perfectly with their vision of a community coffee shop.
“We really like scarves, and they symbolize warmth,” Yunxian shared.
“Our goal is to make Café Modori a welcoming space where people can feel that same sense of comfort and connection. We want everyone to feel at home here.”
When asked about her coffee journey, Yunxian revealed that it all began with her love for drinking coffee. A chance opportunity to learn more about it led her to discover the fascinating world of coffee and eventually pursue a career in the industry. She enjoys experimenting with different coffee processing methods and doesn’t limit herself to any particular style. For her, it’s all about choosing what feels interesting and exciting in the moment.
As we wrapped up our conversation, we asked Yunxian what message she wanted to share with the I’M NOT A BARISTA coffee community. She smiled and said,
“Keep following your passion for coffee and connecting with others. Coffee has the power to bring people together, just like it brought us together. And of course, you’re always welcome to visit Café Modori!”
Yunxian’s story is a beautiful reminder of the magic of coffee—its ability to create lasting connections, inspire kindness, and foster a sense of community. Her journey and dedication motivate us to continue giving a voice to regular baristas like her, celebrating the everyday heroes behind the counter who make coffee such a special part of our lives.
What’s Your Coffee Story?
