We love how much the coffee culture in Abilene has grown over time, and we’re so excited to have this chance to connect and build community with all the baristas in our city! (Not to mention the opportunity to hone our skills and show off all our Abilenian barista talent to the coffee-loving public.) We can’t wait to see you all as Monks celebrates 18 years and we all celebrate coffee culture together–competitor spots will fill up fast, so don’t wait to register!
Format
This throwdown will be a single elimination tournament with a slight tweak to determine 3rd place. All 16 baristas will be going head-to-head in direct competition each round in a sudden-death match where the winner advances and the loser is eliminated. We’ll have 3 judges who will determine who advances to the next round, and who ultimately will be crowned the throwdown champion. (Third place winner will be determined by a one-off tulip pour between the 2 baristas who didn’t advance to the final round.)
Round 1: Heart
Round 2: Rosetta
Round 3: Tulip
Final Round: Barista’s choice! Let your creativity flow or stick to a standard design–whatever you think best showcases your talent.
Prizes
Besides the pride of having competed and the growth of your barista skills, what do you get if you win? Excellent question! CASH MONEY is the answer.
1st place: $100
2nd place: $50
3rd place: $20
Other Details
Check-in for registered participants will begin at 7:30pm and run until 7:45pm so we’ll all be ready to roll by our 8pm start time. After check-in, you’ll get a chance to come behind the bar and steam a few practice pitchers on our machine to get a feel for the space before the competition begins. We’ll have available all the materials you’ll need to compete, but please feel free to bring your own steaming pitchers if you have a favorite you’re used to using!
It’s $10 to complete registration, payable at Monks Coffee Shop (you’ll receive more details via email if you’re selected to compete).
You don’t have to compete to attend the event–all are welcome and no fees are required to attend. Bring your friends and co-workers and have fun celebrating the coffee community of Abilene!