Open Eye Café Owner
Represents the U.S. as a Head Judge at the
World Barista Competition in Tokyo, Japan.

“An amazing multicultural gathering of the most talented & passionate professionals in the coffee industry…”

[Carrboro] – Scott Conary, co-owner of Open Eye Cafe & the Carrboro Coffee Company (Chapel Hill & Carrboro’s only coffee roasting company), was chosen as a Head Judge for this World Competition after having served as Sensory & Technical Judge at last years competition in Berne, Switzerland.
Mr. Conary is a certified judge for Regional, National and World Barista competitions, having passed multi-day certification procedures and testing. Mr. Conary is a current member of the SCAA’s U.S. Barista Competition Committee, as well as an SCAA Certified Instructor in Espresso technique, Coffee Cupping & Sensory Evaluation.
“This year over 45 countries sent their National Barista Champions to compete for the ‘Worlds-Best’ spot. The level of passion and technical ability was the highest we have seen yet. It was truly inspiring to be surrounded by so many focused, culinary professionals whose main interest is in raising the level of quality and awareness in the coffee industry”, stated Mr. Conary.
The World Barista Competition (WBC) encourages and recognizes professional achievement in the art and skill of espresso preparation and service. WBC competitors must prepare and serve 12 coffee beverages, including four espressos, four cappuccinos and four original signature drinks of their own creation within a 15 minute timeframe. The judges evaluated the entrants on station cleanliness, taste, beverage presentation, technical skills and total impression.