December 12, 2011 – Café Demitasse owner Bobby Roshan and Handsome Coffee Roasters co-owner/2010 World Barista Champion Mike Phillips staged a latte art throwdown in Little Tokyo, with baristas from across the city presenting the most aesthetically pleasing, espresso-and-milk drinks possible before three judges (me included). The tournament was a bit like the card game War, but with espresso drinks.

December 12, 2011 – Baristas learned what design to attempt, and which cup to pour milk into, based on the pull of a playing card from a deck. The joker resulted in blindfolded pulls of espresso. The M.C., Phillips, wrapped a tie around one man’s eyes and said, “I swear I haven’t done this with another man before.” Amazingly, all four baristas who drew the joker managed to fill their cups.

December 12, 2011 – Intelligentsia Venice educator Charles Babinski won the title with his barista’s choice pour (pictured top, right). For his efforts, the 2010 United States Barista Championship finalist received “pride.” Somebody in the crowd told Roshan to “Make it rain!” and he showered Babinski with the contents of the Demitasse tip jar.

December 14, 2011 – Komodo built on the success of two trucks by opening a cafe in Beverlywood, serving dishes like Gambas al Ajillo, shrimp sautéed with smoked paprika, chile powder and garlic.

December 16, 2011 – Mignon and Bacaro co-owner Santos Uy teamed with former Patina chef Tim Carey on Papilles, a bare bones bistro that practices bistronomy in a strip mall near an entrance to the 101 freeway. Their prix fixe menu may include trout with beets and nettle sauce.