From March 5-8, the Oregon Convention Center in Portland is hosting the United States Barista Championship. Leading up to the USBC, Food GPS is showcasing baristas who placed in the Top 6 in their respective region and decided to compete for greater glory. Here’s a contender for the American coffee crown:

Amber Sather
AMS - Brooklyn, NY
Northeast Regional Barista Champion

1. Did anything surprise you about your regional competition?
This is my 5th competition “season”, so I wouldn’t say I’m necessarily surprised by anything. But this regional was a bit different for me because this year I’m competing as an independant Barista, as opposed to representing one company. Also, the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic regions were held together, which was a first time thing for me.

2. Will adjust your approach for the United States Barista Championship? If so, how?
I’m not going to change a whole lot, but will definitely take into account the feedback I received from some of the judges. My coffee is going to stay the same, which I’m very happy about.

3. What is your goal at the USBC?
Making the finals is the first goal….its a hard thing to do. If that happens…well then I’ll re-assess my goals.

4. What did you learn by competing at your regional?
I learned that I have many people who love and support me in my life.

5. What’s your training schedule like until the USBC?
After the competition, I had to take a breather…but I don’t have much time left! So I’m doing run-throughs and getting feedback from my “fake” judges.

6. What’s a coffeehouse you didn’t know about before your regional competition that you now plan to visit?
I learned about Blue State Coffee in New Haven, CT. The manager, Benjamin, took 5th in the Northeast region and is also competing at the USBC this year.

7. What’s your approach in choosing the music that plays during your performance?
I got some suggestions from people who I feel are into really great music that I like but would never find on my own. It is a different feel for me, but I really like it!

Related Posts

1. USBC Competitor Amber Johnson (LAMILL Coffee)
2. USBC Competitor Kristina Merryman (Lava Java)
3. USBC Competitor Ryan Willbur (Intelligentsia Coffee & Tea)
4. USBC Competitor Nik Krankl (Taste Coffee House)
5. USBC Competitor Jesse Bladyka (Coal Creek Coffee)

This entry is filed under Baristas, USBC 2009.