Julius Meinl Barista Cup 2026 brings coffee professionals together worldwide

International

International competition celebrates craft, creativity and hospitality baristas

Baristas who prepare millions of cups of coffee each day will compete in the Julius Meinl Barista Cup 2026, an international competition organised by the Vienna-based coffee brand Julius Meinl. The event highlights the skill, creativity and passion behind professional coffee preparation in cafés, restaurants and hotels around the world.

National competitions in 17 countries

From April to July 2026, national competitions will be held in 17 countries, including Austria, Germany, Italy, the United States, China and the United Arab Emirates. Baristas working with Julius Meinl coffee can apply to take part.

Participants will demonstrate their skills in three categories: Espresso, Cappuccino and Signature Drink. Winners of the national rounds will qualify for the Grand Finale, which will take place on 4 September 2026 in Vienna, the historic home of the Julius Meinl brand.

From local cafés to the international stage

The competition is designed to showcase professional baristas and give them the opportunity to present their craft to an international audience. At the final event, the top performer in each category will win a trip to a coffee-producing country.

The journey allows participants to experience coffee cultivation at its origin and gain deeper insights into sustainable coffee production.

Focus on craft and sustainability

Competitors will work with the Gloriette Gold blend from Julius Meinl’s “The Originals Bio Fairtrade” range. The coffee is inspired by Vienna’s traditional coffeehouse culture and is designed for hospitality professionals who value both premium quality and sustainable sourcing.

During the competition, baristas are expected to demonstrate technical precision, creativity and their personal interpretation of the blend.

Supported by industry partners

The Julius Meinl Barista Cup is organised in cooperation with several industry partners. Participants will use professional espresso machines from Rancilio Group, high-precision grinders from Fiorenzato and water filtration technology from BWT. DaVinci Gourmet will serve as the official syrups partner for the Signature Drink category.