Omnivore - Battle of the baristas

Southeast barista championship precedes world contest in Atlanta

It’s gonna be brutal!

For three days, Feb. 13-15,  baristas from throughout the Southeast will be trying to out-cappuccino one another for the title of best in the region. The event, open to the public 9 a.m.-5 p.m., will be held at the Counter Culture Coffee training center in the King Plow Arts Center (887 W. Marietta St.).

The rules:

Entrants must make 12 beverages, including four espressos, four cappuccinos and four original signature drinks of their own creation within 15 minutes in front of a panel of accomplished industry judges. Competitors are judged on taste, beverage presentation, technical skills, station cleanliness and overall impression.

The winner will compete for the national title at the U.S. Barista Championship in Portland, March 5-8. The winner of that competition will compete in the World Championship right here in Atlanta, April 16-19.

Sponsors of the local competition are Everything Coffee & Tea Company, Counter Culture Coffee and Batdorf & Bronson Coffee Roasters.

(Photo courtesy of Icanhascheezburger.com)