Competition, free coffee, and celebrations galore are just some of our favorite things about this year’s New York Coffee Festival—find out what else is happening!
BY ASHLEY RODRIGUEZ
BARISTA MAGAZINE ONLINE
Photos courtesy of New York Coffee Festival
The New York Coffee Festival (NYCF) is back! From October 12-14 at the Metropolitan Pavilion in Manhattan, folks from around the world will come together to taste, compete with, and celebrate coffee. The festival, which is in its fourth year and has neighboring events in locations like Amsterdam, London, and Los Angeles, brings together coffee professionals, aficionados, and home enthusiasts to try some of the best coffees from dozens of roasters. Last year, 11,700 folks attended the NYCF, and we’re sure this year’s event will introduce more New Yorkers to the booming specialty-coffee world.
This year’s event is full of activities and experiences. One of the highlights of the NYCF is the Coffee Masters competition, where 16 baristas will battle in six different coffee disciplines: cupping, brewing, latte art, fulfilling orders, signature drink, and creating an espresso blend. (Last year’s winner Erika Vonie will be emceeing alongside the 2016 USBC winner Lem Butler.)
For those not competing, there are a number of tastings and experiences you’ll be able to participate in. The Brew Bar will feature a rotation of roasters from across the globe including Equator Coffees & Teas, Five Elephant, and Koppi. Latte Art Live is an interactive zone where folks can watch seasoned latte artists battle down and learn tricks and tips from the pros. The Sensory Experience invites attendees to taste in a new way “through a series of aromatic and tasting encounters designed to expand perception of flavor,” the website shares.
NYCF isn’t just about coffee, although there’s plenty to share—you’ll also find cocktails, food trucks, and free prizes throughout the event. There will be a stage for folks to make and share music with attendees as part of The Coffee Music Project. And 100 percent of proceeds will go to Project Waterfall, a charity that supports water projects in coffee-growing regions around the world. Tickets are still available here, but you need to snap them up before they’re all gone!
