Espressotec Hosts Latte Art Throwdown: A Showcase of Local Barista Talent, April 28

“We’ve got a lot of talent on the coffee scene here in Vancouver,” says Espressotec owner Reg James. “It’s about time we show it off with a little friendly competition, like they do in the States. We want to engage our coffee community and celebrate our local talent.”

The competition, sponsored by Caffé D’arte coffee roasters, will take place at 5:30pm in Espressotec’s fully-equipped Barista Lab, where equipment demonstrations and classes for home and professional baristas take place during the week. In a format similar to the Throwdowns held in Seattle, Spokane, Portland and San Diego, the baristas will compete in a fight-to-the-death exhibition of latte artistry for the favour of judges and spectators.

Judges will award points based on the aesthetics and creativity of the art only (the barista’s technique will not be evaluated) to determine which baristas proceed to the next round. First, second, and third place winners will each win a prize pack (in addition to bragging rights) featuring items from Espro, Barista Magazine, Reg Baber Enterprises, and Rancilio Group. Julia Barber-Lotecki of Reg Barber Enterprises, who has attended many a latte art throwdown, will be judging the competition along with Sarah Allen of Barista Magazine and one other judge (TBA).

“It’s really exciting to see Espressotec take the initiative to rebuild our coffee community,” says Barber-Lotecki. “It’s a friendly competition—I hope to see everyone there!”

“We’d love to make it a regular event, if this one’s a success and the participants are keen,” adds James.

Event Info:
When: Thursday, April 28
Where: Espressotec Barista Lab | 1015 Clark Drive
Time: 5:30 p.m.
More Info: Visit the Latte Art Throwdown Facebook Page