The internationally-renowned barista competition 'Grand Barista Championship' has taken another big step in 2011 to have its third edition, 'Grand Barista Championship @ HOFEX' held at yet another world-famous event – HOFEX.

HOFEX & Danes Gourmet Coffee, an Australian coffee company who owns Grand Barista Championship will be co-hosting the competition during HOFEX 2011, where a strong regional visitor-ship of 35,000+ is expected. The competition at HOFEX is anticipated to generate greater industry awareness for Hong Kong's rapidly expanding coffee market whilst drawing attention to Hong Kong's emerging world class Barista's.

The heats on May 11 & 12 at HOFEX will bring forth top 8 baristas for a final showdown on May 13 to present the 2011 Hong Kong Grand Barista.

 During the competition, each contestant is required to produce a series of 'Black coffees', 'Milk coffees', 'own choice' non espresso coffees and 'Express lattes' all within 10 minutes. The judging panel, consisting of local and overseas industry professionals; ranging from café owners to coffee roasters will assess the barista's serving for Taste, Beverage presentation, technique, personal presentation, cleanliness, efficiency and productivity.

The Hong Kong Grand Barista Champion will represent Hong Kong against a selection of top international baristas from Australia, Thailand, Korea and other nations in the GBC final which will be held in Thailand later this year.

“Asia is not only craving more espresso based specialty coffee but also demanding better standards, skill and creativity from Barista's. HOFEX, given its location at the heart of Asia, and being one of the most important trade events in the region, is the perfect platform for barista's to show their talent and represent their chosen profession to the regional coffee aficionados.” Craig Jackson, CEO of Danes Gourmet Coffee.

Winning Results

Grand Barista Championship

Winner: Chow Cheung Ming (Barista Cafe)

1st runner-up: Lee, Ho Ki Ricky (Cafe Corridor)

2nd runner-up: Leung, Chun Ho Marcko (Cafe Corridor)

PURA GBC Most Popular Barista: Yuen Wing Yeung, Dickson (McCafe)

Grand Latte Championship