Testing espresso gear through obsessive research.
You're at the age where you research espresso machines? Me too. I'll help you pick the right one (the first time) and teach you how to use it better than your local baristas.
Espresso Machine Reviews
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KitchenAid Semi Automatic Espresso Machine
Straightforward setup, good looks, and strong performance that's accessible to beginners make the Kitchenaid KES6551 a worthy opponent to the Breville Barista Express.
Coffee Grinder Tests
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AeroPress Manual Grinder
A premium price tag, some frustrating design choices, and spotty performance mean the Aeropress Manual Grinder can only really be recommended to Aeropress super-fans.
Timemore C3 ESP Pro
The C3 ESP Pro punches above its weight class for a portable hand mill. It's a great deal when factoring performance to cost.
Kingrinder K6
The K6 is a solid and precise grinder, but its external grind adjustment holds it back from being crowned king of the ~$100 hand mill.
Recipes
View allStarbucks Clone: Brown Sugar Horchata Shaken Espresso Recipe
I'm going to be brutally honest. I don't like Starbucks. That might be expected considering the gear I test, but if you landed here as a Starbucks lover, I apologize off the bat. With that said, their horchata shaken espresso is their only offering I'll consume when I'm away from my home brewing setup. Naturally, this shaken horchata recipe kicks the Starbucks one to the curb.