Marco Leon Rossi Gigli | Argentinian Comandante Champion

What is your job and where do you live and work?

I currently work as a barista and manager at a bar and restaurant I helped build, called Rodia's. It’s located in Villa Carlos Paz (Av. Illia 783). It’s a place where we’ve poured all our dreams into, and we want to make it a truly great spot as we continue to grow.

What does coffee mean to you and what do you love about it?

Coffee is my passion. I started in 2021, and since then, it’s been a constant journey of learning, enjoying, and sharing special moments. Coffee pushes me to grow and become better. It motivates me to give my best—to provide each customer with the best brew I can make.

I actually enjoy making coffee for others more than for myself. That’s why I always aim to serve the best cup I’m capable of.

What is your experience with Comandante grinders, and what do you like about them?

My first experience with a Comandante grinder was on stage, during the competition - I had never used one before! A friend of mine had one, and we often talked about its performance, but I hadn’t tested it myself until that moment. Now that I’ve owned one for a few days, I can say it truly lives up to its name. 

It’s an excellent grinder with top-level performance. It definitely helps you brew a better cup.

Why did you apply for the Comandante Championship?

I love the feeling you get after a competition, knowing you gave your best in that moment. All the preparation beforehand helps you grow and improve.

Events like this are also the perfect opportunity to meet and connect with other baristas, make new friends, and stay updated with what’s happening in the coffee world. I almost didn’t go because we were just one day away from Rodia’s grand opening.
I had applied before we even had a launch date.

My partner encouraged me to go, and it turned out to be the best decision I could’ve made.

How was the competition for you?

It was a lot of fun!
I loved the energy and the passion everyone brought. I also got to reconnect with many friends from Córdoba, where the competition took place.

In the first round, I was relaxed. I didn’t expect to advance—I was competing alongside two baristas I admire, and I was happy just to be there. I couldn’t believe it when my cup won that round.

In the second round, I was extremely nervous!
I had competed in four other events before and never made it past the first round, so this was a totally new experience for me.

The final was especially fun—it just so happened that the other two finalists were the roasters of the coffee we serve at Rodia’s! Again, I was completely surprised to win the championship.

What is your advice for future competitors?

In the short term, I want to get used to working with the Comandante grinder.

In the long term, I want to keep growing within this beautiful coffee industry.
I want to learn how to roast, dive deeper into green coffee, visit coffee farms, and meet more people who share this same passion.

What are your future goals?

Brew the cup you enjoy the most - the one you’d love to drink all day. Don’t try to guess what the judges want. Show what you love to do. Competitions are your chance to share your best. Thanks for everything, and I hope we get to meet again someday!

Photo by Francisco D’Angelo.