This was my introduction to espresso machines and it makes a decent 2 oz shot once you get the hang of the basics. I'm a coffee nerd who enjoys the ritual, the prep work, and the end result (flavor and caffeine!), so I was excited to learn the nuances of espresso. Happy to share that below after the review. On the machine itself: - It really is compact, fits nicely on a small countertop. Just make sure you stabilize the machine (hold onto it) whenever you add or remove the portafilter, wipe down the machine, or turn on or off the hot water/steamer knob on the side. - The removable bottom tray is convenient if you’re using a standard 12-16oz mug. Just lift the plastic and metal base. - Easy to clean the unit and parts, but read the manual to confirm which parts can be put in the dishwasher vs. hand wash. - Automatic 1 or 2oz shots - No need to watch the machine or control how long you “pull the shot” - Water tank is easy to refill, just watch out for shelves above it if you’ve tucked the machine under cabinets. On how I make espresso with this machine: Basic stuff you can find everywhere online, plenty of videos and experts. If it saves you time, here's what learned - my preferences included, yours may differ: Part 1: Coffee Prep - the bean and grind: I prefer medium roast organic beans from a local store, dark roast is nice, maybe a little sweeter, but I typically go medium. I used an OXO burr grinder at the finest setting... it's somewhere between powder and light beach sand. - the weight: Yup, a cheap scale will helps to get the optimal amount. The instruction book says 13-14g, I go for 16-17g coffee. - the compression: The tamper that comes with the machine is OK, but you can wind up with an inconsistent and non-level press in the basket (I've only used the 2 oz basket). That can result in an inconsistent extraction - how much of the grind really dissolves in the water. - the mess: coffee grinds everywhere. how did it get under the machine? how did it get in my hair? I'm bald. To resolve alleviate the mess, inconsistent compression, I found some tools... (I don’t work for Amazon, I’m not paid by these vendors, just sharing what I bought) 1. Dosing Cup - I hold this directly under my grinder to catch the grounds, turn my portafilter upside down, align with the basket, flip right side up, and tap the sides to start leveling the pile in the basket. I found one that looks like a top hat and fits nicely. Reduced the mess and I got a laugh from it. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BFDV2Y1L?psc=1&ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_product_details. 2. Leveler / distributor and tamper - Push down on the grounds with the non-flat side and spin to level the coffee. Flip it over and press. This one is weighted, so you don’t have to guess how much pressure you’re applying. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BN2YHF3Z?ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_product_details&th=1 3. Paper filters - Supposedly, they improve the extraction and soak up the oils you may not want. For me, the verdict is still out on whether this helps or hinders the flavor and strength of the espresso. I’m a big Aeropress fan, so I typically appreciate paper filters. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0B5DPVDW7?psc=1&ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_product_details Part 2: Water and Mug or Demitasse Prep - Preheat your cup: Let the machine ‘warm-up’, so the espresso button light is solid white. Using the machine’s hot water/frother (not steamer mode), fill the cup about half way with hot water. I’m sure this differs by material… glass vs. ceramic vs. metal travel mug, etc. and it helps the espresso stay hotter for longer. Maybe it impacts the flavor? - Portafilter: Clear the basket of loose grounds, lock it in. - Dump or save the water, place the cup under the filter, push the espresso button (for me, 2oz). - After the 15-20 seconds, it stops automatically. Give it 20-30 seconds to stop dripping. - Enjoy your shot. Part 3: Clean up… - Remove the portafilter, and now it’s time to remove your “puck” from the basket. This is still a messy challenge, no matter how long I wait until after making the shot. I was hoping I could just flip the basket, but I’ve had to dig out the puck with a butter knife or spoon. Not a big deal. After that, I rinse the basket well, flip it upside down and place it on a clean dishtowel. Then I tap the basket to help it drain. - Rinse the portafilter itself with warm water and a little soap. Flip it and let it dry on the towel. - The machine itself… Without a paper filter, I discovered that the area where the hot water is dispensed was covered in grounds every time. Even when the puck looks flat, some looser grounds on the top of the basket are pushed up. Make sure to wipe under the hood if you’re not using a paper filter.
