Kiva Han Coffee proudly hosted the Mid-Atlantic and Northeast Regional Barista Competition sponsored by the Specialty Coffee Association of America on February 6th, 7th & 8th. Forty-six talented baristas from 11 states competed in the regional championships. Each barista had 15 minutes to create 12 espresso drinks to be judged by seven certified judges. The baristas were scored based on technique, quality, and consistency of their drinks.

On the final day of the competition the twelve finalist competed for the regional title. Katie Duris, of Murky Coffee located in Arlington, VA captured the Mid-Atlantic title while Amber Sather of New York, NY claimed the title for the Northeast. Crazy Mocha’s Dana Waelde was the only local barista to make the final round. Dana used her own custom espresso blend roasted by Kiva Han Coffee. Dana finished 6th overall for the Mid-Atlantic region.

We want to congratulate Dana on her great performance and we know we will see her again in future competitions. Both winners were sponsored by Kiva Han Coffee at the U.S. Barista Championship held in Portland, OR March 5th - 8th. The proceeds from the ticket sales benefited the Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank and the Butler County Food Pantry. Kiva Han Coffee would like to thank everyone who helped to make this huge success!