Rohit Pun of Swedish Tarts has won The Alternative Dairy Co.’s third Alternative Barista Smackdown, which took place on 20 February at Kindred Coffee’s Plant 3 Bowden location in Adelaide.
Jeni Hiuying Cheung was runner-up and Duy Thanh Vo came in third place.
According to The Alternative Dairy Co., the event was highly anticipated among Adelaide’s coffee community, with over 100 spectators watching as 32 baristas competed head-to-head in the plant-based smackdown.
In the finals, both competitors had to create three latte art patterns using different alternative milks. Rohit’s tulip, inverted swan, and two bunnies made with almond, soy, and oat milk earned him the top spot on the night and $1000 in prize money. Rohit will go on to compete in the grand final on 15 June at Veneziano Coffee Roasters in Richmond, Victoria.
Judging the smackdown was Jibbi Little, The Alternative Brand Ambassador and 2022 World Aeropress Champion, Alex Loft, Co-founder of Kindred Coffee, and Sam Hermel, Owner of Milk Chef. The judges evaluated the latte art based on contrast, definition, and complexity.
The next Alternative Barista Smackdown in the national tour will take place on 30 March at St Ali in Melbourne, Victoria.
For more information visit www.altdairyco.com
