Let’s be honest – there’s just something inherently cool and edgy about a latte art throwdown. Some of the most confident baristas you know, gathered in one place, surrounded by the sound of steam wands and clinks of latte pours. Maybe it was the third time’s charm, but this was my favorite latte art throwdown we’ve hosted yet!
I don’t think I speak for myself when I describe how awe-inspiring it feels to know people travel from all over to take part in one of our throwdowns. This throwdown at our Winnetka café included baristas from cafés in Chicago, the southern suburbs, and even mid-Wisconsin! From old faces to new, it was a showstopping night with an amazing crew.
As a barista, you might assume I would jump at the chance to participate in a latte art throwdown. But contrary to popular belief, I don’t care much for the participation aspect. I’m naturally not much of a competitive person. However, I LOVE to be a spectator. It’s in this space where you get to see the coolest and most creative pours! I love the ease of being an audience member. A joyful presence and a willing encourager of my Tala peers.
Another bonus to being a number in the crowd is the ability to meet people from all kinds of cafés. It was here that I met Joe, a barista who hails from Sparrow Coffee in Naperville and an impressive latte artist. Joe and I bonded over our mutual beginnings in coffee – both of us having been let go from day jobs and needing immediate employment. Together, we shared the sentiment that the “quick fix” coffee shop jobs we found ended up being way more special and meaningful than we imagined. So much so that we’ve found ourselves attending events like this – celebrating coffee and its art – something we never expected for ourselves.
It was in meeting Joe, and others, that I realized how much more this is than just another competition. In a time and place where we seek in-person connection more than ever, gatherings like a latte art throwdown offer a place to show a skill that wouldn’t be remotely possible without the time, effort, and talent needed to cultivate it. Amidst AI-generated products and services, a craft such as latte art can only flourish with dedication and earnest effort.
After a hard-won fight, Molly, a Tala alum and former manager of our Winnetka café, brought home the win! This was so exciting for Molly and a true full-circle moment. After the win, Molly told me she learned the craft of latte art at Tala. So it was special to come back and put those skills to good use!
This gathering was so fun and couldn’t have been so without our amazing judges and sponsors. A big thanks to all the baristas who traveled to be a part of the night and the coffee enthusiasts who attended to cheer on each pour! Here’s to many more nights like this one!
And another huge thank you to our sponsors!
@califiafarms @zerno.grinder @created.co @kalitausa @genuineorigin @cafeimports @thirdwavewater @baristamagazine ✨
Marissa Cummings
On staff at our Libertyville café, Marissa loves befriending customers and making the perfect cup of coffee. When not behind the bar, she is usually exploring new coffee shops, curled up with a good mystery book and a warm miel in hand.