espresso

This method of espresso making requires an investment in specialized equipment. I have worked with a variety of machines across a wide range of prices. Through this experience I have learned that the minimum investment you must make to reliably produce quality espresso is just over one thousand Canadian dollars. This will get you a combination grinder and espresso machine, and you will require both. One of the best entry level options is the Rancilio Silvia & Rocky grinder combination. Slightly more expensive and higher performance models include Pasquini, Nuova Simonelli Musica, and ECM Giotto. I have worked with owned Pasquini and Nuova Simonelli and I have had an espresso made in an ECM. All make excellent espresso, and can easily froth milk for Cappuccino. I am currently using the Elektra Sixties model shown in the photo. It is an excellent commercial quality machine; I have owned it for fourteen years and it was well worth the investment. I have also worked with some department store machines; Cuisenart, Brevelle, etc., and it is possible to make an excellent espresso with some of these machines. I found that occasionally I would get the conditions perfect and the machine would produce a beautiful espresso. Unfortunately consistency was impossible to achieve, and the espresso was frequently mediocre and occasionally undrinkable, but I was pleasantly surprised when its turned out right.

Also hand operated machines such as ROK and Flair produce excellent espresso, and cost around four hundred dollars. Coffee and Espresso machine bundles can be purchased in our Shop.