What are your recc's for a home espresso maker?

Mongo

Mongo

Joined
Nov 5, 2001
Messages
8,969
(psst, Hey Java.... I'm counting on you!)
Greetings all, the esteemed Danbo was nice enough to give me some of his personal stash of freshly home roasted coffee beans. He suggested I try it as espresso. Now, he has potentially succeeded in sucking me into yet another hobby: coffee taken up a notch or two.
So, what is a good, yet inexpensive set-up for making espresso at home. Also, what can you all tell me about buying my own beans, roasting them at home, and further sinking into the coffee maniac realm?

Patiently awaiting your responses....
Mongo
 
Dammit Danbo... I barely have enough money to satisfy my Colt cravings! I think I will have to start slowly and find myself an espresso machine. I will have to break into the home roasting a little more slowly.

p.s. what is the type of beans you gave me again?
p.s.s. Thanks again for the beans, and the website link
 
You know, there is the age old dilemma again. The cheap ones won't keep you happy for long. I have a friend with an expensive plumbed-in espresso machine, an E-61 Rocket. It's nice but he has to warm it up first thing in the morning, reminds me of a steam loco. He's ready for his afternoon nap by the time the morning coffee is perfect.
Me, I use a plunger at home. Really fresh beans, freshly ground and plenty of them - makes a great cup of coffee. For good espresso, I go to a reliable cafe.
 
My wife told me that when I finish the kitchen remodeling project (I'm about 18 months into it now :) ) she'll buy me a moderately priced espresso machine. I'm going with the Rancilio Silvia.
 
I dunno, I've never seen a home espresso maker that makes decent coffee. That's not to say that they don't exist, but you have to spend big bucks if you want one. I guess it depends on how much you love espresso. :)
 
Mongo, those beans I gave you were Kenya Peaberry. I can't get anymore of that lot, and sweetmarias is out of the other lot of Kenya Peaberry now. :(
 
For simplicity and versatility I always fall back on the tried+true all metal stovetop models. Once you've made a dozen or two in it you'll always know how it will perform and you can do it while asleep. (A big plus in the morning)

I've owned four 'modern' electric units with all kinds of whizbang gadgets, steam doodads and foam whazzits and after they break I'm always making my espresso in old faithful.
 
Lately, I've been using a French Press to make my coffee. Talk about pure coffee taste; wow! :thumbup:
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top