Fancy Flavors First Latte Art Throwdown

Ranking first place (right), is Andy @liangweianan. Second place (middle) is Oswaldo “Ozzy” Armenta @ozzy_au_lai, and ranking third place (left) is Sam Balean @pupper.ccino.

Recently, I had the privilege of stepping into the world of latte art judging for the very first time and what an experience it was! Held at the charming Fancy Flavors bakery in San Jose, this competition brought together a diverse array of talented baristas, each anxious to showcase their skills. Joining me at the judges' table were two esteemed figures in the coffee community: Rich, the visionary behind San Francisco's renowned SprO Coffee Lab, and Daniel Vu, the passionate owner of Bitter+sweet in Cupertino CA. Their expertise and discerning palates added depth and insight to our deliberations, making the experience not just educational but truly inspiring.

I must extend a heartfelt thank you to all the sponsors whose generous support made this event possible. Espresso Parts, Cat & Cloud Coffee, 1oz. Coffee, Acaia, Baratza, Michal the Milkman, Barista Magazine, and Slow Pour Supply—your contributions elevated the competition, providing baristas with top-tier equipment and resources to showcase their talents. To the competitors who poured their hearts into each cup, your dedication to perfecting your craft was evident in every swirl and flourish. From intricate tulips, sea horses, and beyond, each design spoke volumes about your creativity and commitment to excellence.

Fancy Flavors provided the perfect backdrop for this celebration of coffee culture. The warmth and hospitality of the venue complemented the camaraderie among competitors and spectators alike, creating an atmosphere of shared passion and mutual admiration. As a judge, witnessing the passion and talent on display was a humbling experience. Each pour was not just a creation but a reflection of hours of practice, experimentation, and a deep-seated love for the art of coffee. The dedication and skill exhibited by every participant made the task of judging both challenging and immensely rewarding. Lastly, a special thank you to the organizers of the Fancy Flavors Latte Art Competition for their meticulous planning and seamless execution. Your commitment to fostering creativity and community within the coffee industry is commendable and deeply appreciated.

In closing, I am grateful for the opportunity to have been a part of this extraordinary event. It is a reminder of the richness and diversity of the coffee world, where innovation meets tradition, and where every cup tells a unique story. To everyone involved—from sponsors to competitors, organizers to spectators—thank you for making this experience unforgettable.

Here's to continuing to celebrate and elevate the art of latte making, one perfect pour at a time.

Renowned co-judges, Rich (bottom), and Dan (top).