Siliconslave's how to make espresso thread

Caffe Vergano makes the best coffee in London I have tried so far... I would rate Vergano better than Monmouth IMO.

Not tried Flat White yet.
 
Sorry im an utter newb when it comes to all of this but love espresso and very strong coffee.

What would be the best bean to get if you want a strong cup. or which pre ground stuff?
 
Thinking about selling my Ascaso I-Mini grinder and going for the rebranded Dualit one instead. Looks more compact, plus the Ascaso is overkill for my needs
 
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I've tried this. Strong yes, but not one of my favourites. Has a definite tobacco quality to it.

It's not the best coffee blend in the world, but it's certainly strong - which was what was requested. :D

I'd always recommend the Bolivian Machacamarca over most coffees - works very well in pretty much any brewing method from French Press to Espresso.
 
They are expensive not because they are popular, they are expensive because they are good. That's why they are also popular, because they are good.
 
They are expensive not because they are popular, they are expensive because they are good. That's why they are also popular, because they are good.

this is the truth, it seems like a large outlay but its well worth it in the long run and for the quality you'll soon realise its not a bad price, alternativly check ebay for decent used ones if money is tight.
 
this is the truth, it seems like a large outlay but its well worth it in the long run and for the quality you'll soon realise its not a bad price, alternativly check ebay for decent used ones if money is tight.

Absolutely. Spend around £200 on a good basic espresso machine and it'll be a godsend... although you'll soon get upgradeitus. ;)

Anyhow, more pimping of my favourite coffee shop. ;D

Hayley now has a web site - http://www.thewindowcoffee.com
She's still using Frosty as her espresso blend of choice, but also has the UKBC Blend as an option (which is still extremely tasty)

Also, a bit of a strange question... Does anyone know a potter who can make some custom mugs to some fairly odd designs? ;)
 
So what are 'basic espresso machines' in the <£200 range?

For under £200 you could get a Gaggia Espresso Pure - I got mine cheap as Debenhams mucked me around with a broken Gaggia Cubika but they retail for around £160/£170 now. I've had mine for nearly two years and it's done a sterling job - the portafilter is brass unlike the cheaper Cubika and I can make cups as good as when using my mates Rancilio Silvia. The steam wand isn't awesome (and can't be modded with a Silvia wand like the Classic can) but it does the job so long as you know how to use it properly :)

It's a perfect starter machine IMHO. What grinder are you using?
 
I'm not sure the Skerton/Skelton/Skeleton grinder is really good and consistent enough for espresso. Have to admit that I haven't tried it though.

Espresso machine - Gaggia Classics are still available and occasionally under £200
 
I`ve not had a problem with it along with a Presso.

Its more of a pain getting the temperature correct.

Gaggia Classics get snapped up quickly, new are still about £250, used around £150ish.
 
Absolutely. Spend around £200 on a good basic espresso machine and it'll be a godsend... although you'll soon get upgradeitus. ;)

Anyhow, more pimping of my favourite coffee shop. ;D

Hayley now has a web site - http://www.thewindowcoffee.com
She's still using Frosty as her espresso blend of choice, but also has the UKBC Blend as an option (which is still extremely tasty)

Also, a bit of a strange question... Does anyone know a potter who can make some custom mugs to some fairly odd designs? ;)

Great little coffeeshop that. Stopped in there earlier this week and had one of the best Flat White's I've ever tasted. I bought some Bolivian beans which she ground for me but in my french press they don't taste half as good as I suspect they can taste.

Seriously considering a Gaggia Classic.....anything else I should consider that comes close in terms of quality?
 
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