Saturday, my husband and I went to the Red Twig, about two blocks from the Walnut Street Cafe, located in Edmonds, WA. They roast their own coffee there. As I was talking to the barista, she was telling me that it is easier to make art on latte’s than on mochas (plain, espresso’s, cappuccinos are not decorated). Mochas require stirring.
Each barista has their own decorations that they make. Most learn on their own through trial and error, but there are classes that one may take, too. Baristas use the steamed milk. The decoration is made through their pouring technique, and sometimes chocolate is added and a stir-stick is dragged through the chocolate and foamed milk.
Here is my mocha, the second picture is a latte that was a “mistake”—made with the wrong type of milk.
Hi Maria,
ReplyDeleteI really enjoyed reading this post! I had wondered about whether the art was a learned task. Are some baristas known for certain designs? I have to admit - I am not much of a coffee expert - outside of needing a decent cup or two in the morning........and have never had espressos, cappuchinos or lattes. Should I give it a try?
I had no idea there was such a thing as coffee art. This is really cool. I have never seen anyhting like this locally. I am wondering if it is a local specialty to your area?
ReplyDeleteHello from Seattle! I'm drinking a Starbucks favorite right now- caramel machiatto (sp.). Although I can drink it in Portland (ME) it is certainly something I enjoy!! We're at the La Quinta which is close to the airport so when we googled coffee shops the closest was a Starbucks. We're looking forward to venturing out tomorrow in search of some coffee art!!
ReplyDeleteahh the difference between steamed milk and good old milk!! I wonder what are the qualities that make steamed milk better than regular milk in forming art when married to coffee! Is it a shift at the molecular level or the thermodinamics of the whole mixture?? I am no chemist; just a great fan of Alton Brown and his scientific explanations of why some foods get along better with others...
ReplyDeleteYou take great pictures! Remember I'm not a coffee drinker but, your pictures make me want to try one of these delectable treats!
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