Western Foodservice & Hospitality Expo | Florida Restaurant & Lodging Show

"It is a great way to meet other people who share the same passion for all of the challenges that happen in the industry; and I always leave with a lot of information and knowledge of what's current and what to expect in the future. "

"It was worth the trip into the city to see new products."

"It's still the go-to place to meet a wide range of vendors and see what new products or services are available. "

"This is the most efficient way to see companies an evaluate products."

"It is wonderful to be able to speak to the sales rep and learn about the ingredients of a product and the pride in which it is made."

"It is an excellent opportunity to refresh your industry knowledge."

"It is important and convenient to have a place where not only one can talk with sales reps, experience the product or equipment, have an adventure discovering foods one might not normally have access to and learn."

"I have been coming to this event for 34 years and it keeps getting better!"

"Visiting websites and having conversations on the phone can be effective, but not as effective as seeing the products and representatives in person."

"It is one of the most important shows to attend."

"Overall it brings everything together under one roof – no matter what area of foodservice you are in."

"I enjoy going to the Show and was able to meet a company that is helping me change the way I do business."

"It was more convenient for me to find the vendors and products I need from the Show then for me to go out and find them on my own."

"This is a unique experience."

"It is very educational – you get to see new trends and learn from the brightest minds in the foodservice industry."

"This is a great show … powerful in the products and the presentation."

"This event has the highest amount of pastry related items/events in NYC. I attend every year to see the pastry competition, see new equipment and network."

"I attend to get ideas and actually see the products in the trade magazines."

"I learned so much from the seminars, new products and industry professionals. One of the best foodservice shows I have ever attended."

"The newest players on the market make it their business to be there."

"There is something for everyone, and there isn't a single moment where you will be bored. You will constantly be finding and discovering something new to see and look at. Amazing!"

"It is the easiest way to get a broad cross-section of the restaurant industry all in one place."

"When you work every day trying to make ends meet, your head buried in responsibilities, you forget why you started in your line of work in the first place. The IRFSNY brings back the passion, inspiration and energy. I am not alone, I have a place where I belong."

Ultimate Barista Challenge

The Ultimate Barista Challenge is back at the International Restaurant & Foodservice Show of New York. Come watch as professional baristi face challengers on the exhibition floor where they prepare their signature espresso beverages for a panel of discerning judges. There will be a showdown of three flights of espresso frappe, espresso cocktails and beautiful café latte art.

In addition to watching the action unfold you will learn the value of fine espresso and coffee on your menu, secret tips to drive profitability into your offerings and tips to impress your customers.

What is a barista? A barista is someone who demonstrates their passion and knowledge for coffee for customer's everyday in cafes, restaurants and coffee bars around the world.

Think you've got what it takes to win The Ultimate Barista Challenge? Professional barista who wish to be considered for the challenge must apply directly with curriculum vitae (bio), photograph and professional barista and/or challenge experience to sjohnswholecup@aol.com.

The Ultimate Barista Challenge^® USA ensues to the delight of the audience and barista alike. Winners receive trophy, cash and prizes and of course, the recognition as "The Ultimate Barista."

CMN Video: Ultimate Barista Challenge

Chef Mark speaks with Sherri Johns of the Ultimate Barista Challenge, about the qualities a great barista must possess to produce the perfect cup of coffee, and we see some the these fine folks practice their trade with latte art and frappacino competitions.

A production of The Culinary Media Network. www.culinarymedianetwork.com

Ultimate Barista Challenge

CMN Video: Ultimate Barista Challenge

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