From August 9 to 11, 2024, the LEVA Contest took place in Kunming, a major coffee-related event in China, supported by La San Marco and the “Associazione dei Maestri del Caffè Napoletano”. The event gathered some of China’s best baristas to compete in various categories, including speed, latte art, and sensory challenges, culminating in the final round to determine the champions.

The contest followed a structured format, with the first day dedicated to machine demonstrations and trial runs, followed by two official competition days. The top three teams will now advance to the Chinese final, scheduled for September in Beijing.

Winners List:

• 1st place: Chen Zi Ni, Zhou Xing Rou, Amosilin team – 156 total points (101 valid)
• 2nd place: Zhang Yang Yang, Zhu Wen Jiang, Fei Cui team – 119 total points (95 valid)
• 3rd place: Li Jin, Quan Ding Qin, Weakness team – 118 total points (91 valid)
• 4th place: Liu Yang, Ni Yu Qi, Shou Na Ba Qia team – 156 total points (84 valid)

La San Marco played a key role in the event, not only by providing the iconic lever machines used by participants but also by contributing to the training and certification of judges. The certification, conducted alongside Francesco Costanzo from the “Associazione dei Maestri del Caffè Napoletano”, ensured fairness and professionalism among the panel of experts evaluating the competition.

The LEVA Contest aims to become one of the most significant coffee events in China, promoting the tradition of Neapolitan coffee and innovation within the industry.