Returning for its sixth edition at LCF, Coffee Masters is the barista's ultimate test of knowledge, skill, nerve and showmanship, with a £5000 prize and an internationally acclaimed title for the taking. This year, the competition is asking applicants to create a Signature Drink based on the theme "Birthday", celebrating the festival's tenth anniversary.
We encourage baristas and coffee maestros of all backgrounds to apply, so to help make the process easier, here's 2019 Coffee Masters™ London winner Rob Clarijs with his top tips on how to submit the best application possible!
Find Inspiration
I always looked at other application videos from previous years to see what has been done before, so you can make sure you don't accidentally copy someone and also find some inspiration for your signature drink.
Let Others Have A Taste
Let your friends and family have a taste of your Signature Drink; they might be able to give you feedback from a different perspective. They also might be able to give you some extra flavor-notes!
Don't take It Too Seriously
Take Carlos' application as an example, I absolutely loved his video and couldn't wait to taste his drink. You want the judges to think that too when they see your video!
Leave Room For Error
Imagine what could go wrong on stage and try to tackle those possibilities. Bring a spare glass and spare ingredients. For example, I let a few people have a taste of my signature drink backstage last year before knowing I'd make it to finals and I had only just enough left over in the finals to make enough drinks!
Keep It Personal
It's called signature drink for a reason.
Coffee Masters™ takes place across each day of The London Coffee Festival, from 2-5 April 2020. Applications are open until 8 February; click here for all details on how to apply.