Sixteen of the area’s most artistic baristas poured their best designs as they competed Saturday at the Latte Art Throw Down at Goat Kick Coffee in Evans.
“We have a core of five local coffee shops and we meet monthly,” said John Curry, owner of Buona Caffe. “We wanted to do something that builds camaraderie and community.”
The event featured a single elimination tournament with barista’s choice in the first and championship rounds plus a random dice roll round determining the pattern and an oat milk round.
“We’re all here because we love coffee and the connection it creates,” said Natalie Jacobs, owner of Goat Kick Coffee. “We’re celebrating the craft.”
The event drew a packed house, and patrons could sip on the lattes the baristas made while enjoying baked goods. They also had a chance to take part in a raffle for a variety of prizes – many of them coffee-related
The throwdown helped raise money for Bridge Builders Communities, which is building tiny homes for young adults aging out of the foster care system. Not only will they have a place to live, but they will receive support and mentoring as they continue their education or find employment.
Baristas represented Buona, Goat Kick, Cavalier’s Coffeehouse in North Augusta, Trellis Coffee Bar and Commander Coffee. Chelsea Peterson of Buona Caffe took home the bragging rights, a trophy and several gift cards.
Curry said the coffee shop collective planned to do other events in the future to celebrate the coffee community.
Charmain Z. Brackett, the publisher of Augusta Good News and Inspiring: Women of Augusta, has covered Augusta’s news for more than 35 years. She’s won multiple Georgia Press Association awards, is the recipient of the 2018 Greater Augusta Arts Council’s media award and was named Augusta Magazine’s best local writer in 2024 and 2025. Reach her at charmain@augustagoodnews.com. Sign up for the newsletter here.
