When I visited the Dancing Mule Coffee Company two weeks ago, I got behind the scenes tour by co-owner, Randy Austin. Since, I am a coffee newbie, I was fascinated by how each of the machines worked. Randy, graciously answered my questions that most coffee connoisseurs would likely consider “basic.”

Today, I returned to the coffee house, where I enjoyed a roast beef sandwich and Wildberry Waltz Smoothie. I also received a small sample of one of their specials, the Nutty Irishman, which is a mix of hazelnut and Irish cream. The one I tried was a frappe, but it can be ordered hot or iced, as well.

While at Dancing Mule, I ran into several people with whom I network on a regular basis, which is always fun. I also learned that today is Dancing Mule’s 6-month anniversary. So, if you are in the neighborhood, stop in and wish them a “Happy Muleversary.”

Dancing Mule Coffee Company is located on the corner of Sunshine Avenue and Cherokee Street in Springfield. Be sure to visit the Dancing Mule website.

A few weeks ago, Tom Billionis, owner of the Coffee Ethic in downtown Springfield, told me about plans for the first 417 Latte Art Throwdown. I was looking forward to attending the Throwdown, taking some photos, and writing about the event from the viewpoint of a spectator.

The Throwdown was scheduled for last Sunday, March 7 at the Coffee Ethic. That afternoon, I received a message from Tom that one of their judges would be unable to attend. He then asked if I would be interested in filling as a judge! Well, of course!

I showed up early to meet with Tom and the other judges. John Vaughan, of 417 Coffee, and Taylor Baldwin, a graduate music student at MSU, and a bit of a foodie and coffee connoisseur, also served as judges. We received instructions, and discussed guidelines and regulations. Once the event began, we were separated from the participants, in order for the judging to be as blind, anonymous, and objective as possible.

Tom Billionis, owner of the Coffee Ethic,
introducing the judges and competitors.

Seven different coffee houses in Springfield and beyond were represented at the 417 Latte Art Throwdown:  The Dancing Mule, Hebrews Coffee, The Hub Bikes and Beans, Kaldi Coffee, Mudhouse, Coffee Ethic, and even one from Kansas City!  A barista at Latte Land in KC made the drive to Springfield in order to compete.

The event, which was sponsored by PT’s Coffee and Brown Derby, also raised funds for Coffee Kids. Coffee Kids partners with local organizations in Latin America to create education, health awareness, and other programs in coffee-farming communities.

Winners at the first 417 Latte Art Throwdown include:

• 1st Place: Dave from the Coffee Ethic
• 2nd Place: Joe from the Hub
• 3rd Place: Kevin from Hebrews Coffee

Kevin Roy from Hebrews Coffee
competing in the 417 Latte Art Throwdown

The event proved to be a success, with 14 competitors, and over 60 spectators crowded into the space at the Coffee Ethic. There are plans, among the coffee house community, to continue the Latte Art Throwdown every 3 months, with coffee houses rotating as hosts. This is a great way to build community among the coffee industry in Springfield, while at the same time promoting their respective coffee houses. It is also an opportunity to give back, as each event will continue to raise money for non profit organizations.

Download | Duration: 00:46:18

Last week, Teresa Blondo and Mary Valloni recorded the Springfield Foodie Podcast live at the Hub. The Hub is a combination coffee house and bike store on Chestnut and Boonville in Springfield.

Listen, as we discuss the Springfield and Southwest Missouri food and restaurant scene. This week we talk about the bacon trend, and even get to sample bacon ice cream, courtesy of Taylor Baldwin. We interview Taylor, as well as Jason, owner of the Hub.

We are also proud to announce our first sponsor, Unknown Films, and Nathan & Megan treat us to a “foodie” movie review. This week they discuss the movie, Waitress, starring Keri Russel, Nathan Filion, and Andy Griffith.

In addition, there is news and tidbits from the dining scene, we continue our Ghost of Restaurants Past, and share our own foodie memories and stories.