I attended my first latte art throwdown the other day at Brothers K in Evanston. Since it was my first one, it’s obvious I’d have preconceived notions about how the baristas go about throwing the lattes around. Here are the major points that I converted on:

Prediction: Lots of baristas geeking out on espresso parameters and scrutinizing rosettas.
Reality:  Some discussion on coffee, not a lot of close attention on the art. More time was spent with the snack table (obviously food trumps coffee).

Prediction: Hardcore art.
Reality: Art from all levels. There were beginners and competitors. And the competitors had some serious art going on: swans, wreaths, rosettas with hanging bleeding hearts (I don’t even know if these are actual terms!).

Prediction: Fashion wise, I guess I didn’t even think about it. But….
Reality: I was one of eight people who wasn’t wearing plaid. Maybe even seven. No joke.

All in all, a great time and I’m looking forward to the next one!