Gabe Venegas
Owner
My coffee journey began in 2005. Early on, I learned that being a barista is about far more than making great coffee—it's about being an active member of the community with the opportunity to inspire, uplift, and serve others.
As baristas, we have the privilege of educating people about the global coffee supply chain while crafting thoughtful, specialty beverages. But beyond the technical skills and the craft itself, the most meaningful part of the job is building genuine relationships with the people we serve.
Every cup is an opportunity to create connection, share the intentionality behind our work, and express the passion and care that make coffee so much more than just a drink. For me, that's what being a barista has always been about.
Professional Experience
With more than two decades in specialty coffee, my journey began behind the espresso bar as a barista and has evolved through nearly every facet of the industry. Over the past 21 years, I've had the privilege of serving as a trainer, lead barista, general manager, regional manager, wholesale account manager, consultant, service technician, director of education, and director of coffee.
These diverse experiences have given me a holistic understanding of coffee—from seed to cup, from equipment and operations to education, hospitality, and community. Along the way, I became a licensed Authorized SCA Trainer (AST) with the Specialty Coffee Association, guiding coffee professionals in developing technical skills, sensory knowledge, and a deeper appreciation for the craft.
Today, I bring that same curiosity, precision, and passion to Flō Coffee Bar. Every beverage reflects years of experience, a commitment to thoughtful hospitality, and a belief that exceptional coffee has the power to create meaningful moments and lasting connections.
Competitions
I have won back-to-back 2nd Place finishes at the 2025 Latte Art World Championship Open in New York and LA, an achievement that reflects my dedication to continually refining my craft and pushing myself to perform at the highest level.
I am passionate about competing in the Latte Art World Championship Open, as well as regional and local latte art throwdowns. While competitions are demanding and often come with intense pressure, they are incredibly rewarding experiences that continually challenge me to grow—both as a barista and as a competitor.
One of the biggest reasons I continue to compete is the opportunity to connect with fellow baristas who share the same passion for latte art and the coffee community. These events bring together talented people from around the world, creating an environment where we can learn from one another, exchange ideas, and inspire each other to elevate our craft. For me, the relationships and sense of community built through competition are just as meaningful as the results themselves.
