The 5 Best Baristas Around Lake Tahoe Region

A great barista is more than someone who knows their way around an espresso machine. They’re the early-morning lifeline, the quiet artist behind a velvety cappuccino, the familiar face who remembers your go-to drink even before you order it. The Best of Tahoe spotlights the best of these caffeine craftspeople — not just for their technical skill, but for the warmth, energy and consistency they bring to every cup.

Lindsey Bryant – Three Pines Coffee Company

At Three Pines Coffee Company, Lindsey Bryant has helped shape a customer experience that blends the precision of specialty coffee with an approachable, community-first atmosphere. The café itself has built a reputation around quality, working directly with small-batch roasters and crafting each drink with care. Lindsey is part of that daily operation — pulling espresso, steaming milk, engaging regulars and keeping the vibe upbeat. The shop focuses on intentional sourcing, and that shows through in the end product. With seasonal menus, house syrups and a strong focus on detail, the work Lindsey does doesn’t disappear behind the counter.

Autumn – Westside Coffee and Chai

Westside Coffee and Chai lives at the intersection of comfort and creativity, and Autumn brings that same energy to the barista bar. The shop is known for handcrafted drinks, unique chai blends, and a menu that leans into wellness without sacrificing flavor. Autumn plays a role not just in execution but in experience. At Westside, the customer interaction is as important as the drink itself, and Autumn helps build that daily sense of familiarity. With a strong focus on local ingredients and rotating specials, the café offers a drink lineup that’s both consistent and experimental — a balance that requires sharp skills behind the bar.

Risa Jenner – Clydes Coffee Roasting Company

Risa Jenner stands behind the counter at Clydes Coffee Roasting Company, a place where roasting is taken seriously and customer relationships are just as important as bean profiles. Clydes handles its own roasting, and that focus on freshness sets the tone for everything that follows. Risa helps translate that dedication into daily service — crafting drinks that are rooted in the shop’s commitment to quality and educating customers without overcomplicating things. The café offers a menu that highlights their in-house roasts, and Risa’s role is central to the experience.

Thanks, ChatGPT.