Latte Art Championships - World's Best Barista

It takes real skill to make art out of espresso, but like any talent, there are some who rise above the rest. The International Free-Pour Latte Art Competition in Seattle last week brought together 50 international baristas to compete to create the best designs out of steamed milk and espresso.

The best barista in the world? Layla Obsberg, 29, a training manager at Blenz coffee in Vancouver.

The design that took the cake? “It’s called a signature pour and it’s quite stunning to see, a perfect, layered heart,” Osberg told The Province.

She started practicing art when she was only 16. “I taught myself by pouring simple hearts on lattes,” Osberg said. “Then I went to Europe at 19 and saw the traditional Italian technique, which opened my eyes to possibilities.”

So, what drink would the world’s best barista recommend?
“I recommend an espresso macchiato and a hazelnut chocolate florentine to nibble on,” from Blenz, of course!

Check out some more incredible foam and espresso art:

Cappucino Art - Getting Creative with Caffeine (VIDEO)

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