What a great night the first heat was. 16 baristas, three world class judges, probably the best espresso machine in the world, £840 in cash to win plus prizes from Square Mile, Coffee Hit, Minor Figures and Victoria Arduino as well as the simple, stunning glory that comes with winning. The pressure was on, and this was just to get into the finals.
Eastcastle street was packed, with people standing on the back bench seats or sitting up on the front window bench and even standing outside and peering through the windows, with a very strong and vocal crowd from Artisan, as well as Taylor Street baristas, Noble, Dose, Kaffeine, Attendant and Lantana.
Check out these amazing photos from lead judge, Glenn Watson.
https://www.flickr.com/photos/getnoticed/albums/72157656043480153