The specialty coffee industry is having a milestone moment: Onyx Coffee Lab has become the first coffee shop to reach finalist status in the “Outstanding Bar” category of the prestigious US James Beard Awards, a category long dominated by cocktail bars and established wine programs. In the same cycle, Jack Benchakul of LA’s Endorffeine became the first coffee professional ever nominated for “Outstanding Professional in Hospitality.” The James Beard Awards have honored America’s top restaurants and chefs for more than three decades, and a nomination now puts a coffee shop in direct competition with established culinary institutions. While the coffee world has its own competitions — barista championships, roasting contests — validation from outside food and hospitality institutions is seen as a more meaningful form of recognition, and a sign the category has reached cultural maturity.
For those exploring specialty coffee, Mister Tabaco carries a varied selection in its Coffee category.
Source: Perfect Daily Grind