A work of (frothy) art: take a look at the hilarious coffee models created by a Japanese barista with a bit too much time on his hands

If you can't get through the morning without a strong beverage (we're talking coffee, not whisky btw) then spare a thought for customers of Kazuki Yamamoto in Japan.

The plucky barista is serving up coffee with a
quirky difference - with your very own model drawn into the froth.

After six years as a barista, Yamamoto decided to make his creative cappuccinos to order complete with cheerful image on top.

From a cute teddy bear to a replica of the Mona Lisa, Yamamoto has notched up over 2,000 of the mini masterpieces. I wonder if he charges extra for the complicated designs?

******

The talented 26-year-old's creations do take a little longer but his delighted customers don't seem to mind.

So far he has created hundreds of cute animals such as a seal, dog, wolf and a cat. He's also created well-known figures such as Mickey Mouse, Tom and Jerry and Aladdin.

Fancy having a go at making your own frothy drawing? These stunning designs can't be created by getting super proficient with your average coffee maker, instead Yamamoto makes the creations by using a cocktail pin and spoon, steamed milk and deliclious espresso.

He said: ‘I have been been practising at the end of the working day and during breaks. It has become what I am known for when customers come into the shop.’

Yamamoto, who has been making the frothy creations for two years, estimates that he makes around three a day.

‘There is a drawback,’ he said. ‘The coffee can get cold because it takes time to do the more delicate designs.’

So next time you're entering a coffee shop why not try a tall skinny latte with a polar bear on top?

Loved this? Take a look at our guide to the best coffee machines, or check out our kitchen channel for more ideas. Why not follow us on Facebook and Twitter for more news and trends.