Local Barista Community Getting Stronger

Last night about three dozen or so local baristas and coffee folks went down to Simpatico Espresso on Sixth Ave. downtown for our area's second barista get-together.

A lot of espresso shots were pulled and a lot of latte art poured using Simpatico owner Ward Payne's machines. We cupped some locally roasted beans from Jake's Java in Peters (thanks to Carl Hauptmann) and we talked a lot of shop.

It's was great to see some different faces this time around and to learn of others who are considering attending future events. The majority of folks there are likely going down to CoffeeFest this weekend, so we'll have the largest Pittsburgh contingent at a coffee trade event ever. Which hopefully means a big rooting section for Amy's baristas and ours during the competitions.

As one coffeehouse manager stated, "It gets tiring trying to be ultra competitive all the time. It's much easier to just get along and try to make the entire Pittsburgh coffee scene better." A terrific sentiment and words to live by.

Thanks Ward for the hospitality!

Comments

[Casey West]

So sad I couldn't make it to this. However, I'm headed to Coffee Fest on Friday. I'll see you all down there.

Go Pittsburgh!

[Amy]

Well written, Rich. One of these days we will close early and make an event OR better yet Tazza D'Oro will hold the next "Pittsburgh Contingent Jam" celebration when we get back from DC.

[Rich]

Amy,
Why close early? Your evening customers seemed perfectly at home the other night when all sorts of barista weirdness was happening around them. As long as they don't touch the "barista-only" scotch...

[Phil]

Roaster-only scotch?

[Rich]

for you, top shelf.

or whatever we can afford.