The Latte Challenge Kicks off with Kick

Natrel. Art Latte Challenge. Photo Paulette Hall.

Java-U and Natrel elevated the coffee shop experience to kick off the first Latte Art Challenge 2015 Montreal.

Before Julie Audet was announced winner of the challenge with her swan latte art, the weekend event kicked off with a swanky party in honour of the competition where bouncers ensured guests were on the list before entering a decked out tent just outside of Natrel/Java U Milk Bar in St-Henri on Friday.

Starting just in time for happy hour, the event showcased baristas from ten different local cafes in Montreal all while serving up tasty appetizers from Java-U catering including filet mignon, oysters and spring rolls that had just as much flavour as the tasty concoctions Natrel mixologists created at the bar.

Natrel. Art Latte Challenge. Photo Paulette Hall.

Natrel. Art Latte Challenge. Photo Paulette Hall.

Natrel. Art Latte Challenge. Photo Paulette Hall.

Natrel. Art Latte Challenge. Photo Paulette Hall.

Drinks like their Bailey’s and Kahlua infused grown up version of a milkshake, ice-cold Black and White Russians, and chocolate martinis could easily distract from artist Michael Breach’s ability to capture your face within a latte.

Natrel. Art Latte Challenge. Photo Paulette Hall.

Natrel. Art Latte Challenge. Photo Paulette Hall.

“Drinking myself was quite the experience,” said Penelope McQuade, spokeswoman of the event.

Michael Breach represented the United States on a panel of five international judges consisting of championship baristas from Japan, France, Canada, and Australia.

If you didn’t over indulge in the chocolatey drinks, guests were able to dig into decadent desserts like a rich chocolate and maple mousse.

Java-U representatives said working with Natrel was an honour and they hope to hold this challenge every year.

Natrel. Art Latte Challenge. Photo Paulette Hall.

Natrel. Art Latte Challenge. Photo Paulette Hall.

Natrel. Art Latte Challenge. Photo Paulette Hall.

Natrel. Art Latte Challenge. Photo Paulette Hall.

Natrel. Art Latte Challenge. Photo Paulette Hall.

Natrel. Art Latte Challenge. Photo Paulette Hall.

Natrel. Art Latte Challenge. Photo Paulette Hall.

Natrel. Art Latte Challenge. Photo Paulette Hall.

Natrel. Art Latte Challenge. Photo Paulette Hall.

Natrel. Art Latte Challenge. Photo Paulette Hall.

Natrel. Art Latte Challenge. Photo Paulette Hall.

Natrel. Art Latte Challenge. Photo Paulette Hall.

Natrel. Art Latte Challenge. Photo Paulette Hall.

Natrel. Art Latte Challenge. Photo Paulette Hall.