Lincoln Hosts Battle for the Best Barista

Guests travelled from the length and breadth of the country for the event, including highly regarded coffee aficionados, business leaders, experienced barista trainers and Stokes’ wholesale customers. 

The competition was lively and hit fever pitch as five competitors battled it out in two rounds to prove their mettle in both technical and creative heats. The judges, who included John Skinner of MAD Barista Training, Charlotte Bennett from Healing Manor Hotel, Steve Goulder from Downtown, Mark Allibone from Lincolnshire Chamber of Commerce and Paul Robinson, Associate Principal at the Grimsby Institute of Further and Higher Education, had a difficult task to settle on the winners, given that the calibre was so high.  

As they deliberated, the audience was entertained by champion latte artist and coffee influencer Barista Benji who also leads the marketing team at Sanremo UK who sponsored the event. The crowd clamoured to get photographs as he created a range of stunning images on numerous lattes. 

Finally, the independent judges returned having reached their unanimous decisions. 

Dan Smith from the Landmark Café & Restaurant in Ashby Cum Fenby was thrilled to be awarded the prize for the Technical Round. Grace Cox from Gingerbread Cafe in Grimsby was stunned as it was announced that she had been named both Best Personal Drink and Overall Winner. 

Mike Palliser, Training Manager at Stokes’ Barista Training Academy, said:

“After the success of our first championship we decided to do it again and it’s been brilliant. Tonight has been another demonstration of the pride and passion for the importance and skills of baristas. They are the vital part in any hospitality business in making sure that the quality and consistency of the drinks served hits the mark every time. Winning and keeping customers depends on it.  Skilled baristas are crucial to the success of every coffee outlet. 

He added:

“We’re proud to be able to support independent businesses. We’ve trained hundreds of baristas and customers at our academy. They love its facilities and unique setting because they can experience our working roastery next door, while studying a variety of courses including professional qualifications because we are accredited by both the Beverage Standards Association and City & Guilds. Here’s to next year’s event!” 

Find out more about Stokes Accredited Training at www.stokescoffee.com.