The NERBC is happening next week in Somerville, right in my neighborhood http://www.usbaristachampionship.org/northeast/. I was originally planning to volunteer as a judge, but can't get the time off of work, so I'm hoping to just go by and check out the competition on the weekend. Is anyone else planning on going? Has anyone been to a competition before? Is there much to do as a spectator besides watch people pull shots?

It looks like Barismo is also putting together a "cafe crawl" on the 20th to several area cafes to try different coffees and brew methods, including trying some of the competitors blends, I'm going to try and make it at least to Simon's to try out some espresso.

If anyone is planning on competing in the NERBC and have not already registered, please email Marcus Bonnie (mboni@scaa.org) ASAP. You can pay the $25 fee and get registered at the door, but we need to know if you are planning on competing. We are putting together the schedule right now and don't want to miss anyone.




As to your question TrlstanC, competition can be interesting to watch, especially during the finals. It's a good way to become familiar with quality cafes and baristas in your region, and I personally enjoy a lot of the performances. I'd especially suggest going if you have any interest in judging, since judging requires a strong familiarity with competition procedure.

Hi Tristan,

I'm planning on checking out this competition on Saturday afternoon, possibly Sunday. Like you, I've never been to anything like this before, but it should be fun to watch and hopefully taste. Actually, I'd love to compete with my little Peppina or Caravel and see how they stack up against those big machines ; )

Let me know if you want to meet up at some point, the cafe crawl sounds like it could be a lot of fun.

Tyler