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My favorite place to get espresso in Los Angeles might now have to be Jeff Johnsen’s Choke in East Hollywood.

Intelli barista Ryan dragged me there for the first time yesterday as I’m long overdue in making the pilgrimage. The place is absolutely beautiful and if you have any desire towards scooters, mopeds, or small motorcycles there is much here to inspire. Jeff’s a great guy and his Seattle-honed barista skills are top knotch. The shots he pulled us (pausing from a bike repair) were sweet and thick. Why did I wait so long to check this place out?

Choke is located at 4157 Normal Ave - about half a mile from Sunset Junction and open Tuesday through Saturday 10-7.

My pal James Hoffmann, who recently won the title of World Barista Champion, has thrown down the gauntlet for some equally silly barista shenanigans. His absurd latte art challenge is attracting some interesting entries, the best of which will be up for voting very soon. The exact prize is unclear, but the glory is irresistible for some. I got the privilege of photographing Ryan Wilbur of Intelli L.A.’s fully-absurd submission today.

Devin makes the sacrifice for Ryan’s art, now immortalized in jpg.

I’ve heard several baristas speak of this idea in the past, but this may be the first time its been done. Ryan’s canvas was provided by fellow barista Devin Pedde, who is recovering nicely. I took many photos of the stunt which can be found on Flickr. Some of them might even be considered a bit racy!

UPDATE: Sarah at Barista Magazine posted the mock cover we photoshopped and sent her as a joke. Good times.