Review on De'Longhi La Specialista Espresso Machine: Sensor Grinder, Dual Heating System, Advanced Latte System & Hot Water Spout for Americano Coffee or Tea, Stainless Steel EC9335M by Elijah Pope

Written entirely by an espresso newbie. However, I'm quite a Starbucks fan. I'm married to a former barista who's quite snobbish when she's drinking coffee at home. I'm not that picky, but I recognize a good cup of coffee when it's in front of me. I figured that between our two tastes and experiences, we could make a broad assessment. Setup was pretty easy. After the fifth time I yelled at my husband to read the instructions, it was cleaned and assembled in about 20 minutes. This machine does not include a water softener filter. So if you're dealing with hard water, plan on getting one on top of the price of this machine. We've made two drinks so far and both have been delicious. We made iced caramel macchiato and vanilla latte. The flavor is strong and brews right. Even for me, who had no experience with an espresso machine, it was easy enough to figure out. From whole beans in the grinder to the finished meal in the bin, the preparation, brewing and cleaning time took a total of 6 minutes. To compare how much you already spend on coffee when broken down into daily payments over the course of a year, it comes out to about $2.05. Much cheaper than the price of a drink at Starbucks and tasted way better according to the hubs! I spent about $15 on Starbucks coffee beans, more almond milk, and some caramel frosting, which lasted me a month. Although it's a flat rate at the beginning, you'll be glad you made the investment. This car is worth it. UPDATE 11-8-19: I'm updating my review to add a few very important points I've learned since posting my original review: 1. All coffee beans are "espresso" beans. Maybe that's basic knowledge for someone, but I didn't know that! I spent a good 30 minutes in publix looking for espresso beans. Rschunimagu. live and study.2. View all videos on YouTube! Preparing the perfect espresso takes practice. I went to Costco, bought a big bag of beans and made about twenty buns just to perfect my craft! Just before preparing the cup, put the beans in the grinder. This makes the espresso taste fresher.4. If you make a lot of espresso, buy a good set of espresso glasses. I originally used a stainless steel shot glass and my fingers got burned! I ordered JoyJolt double wall espresso glasses (2oz) from Revain and they have been a great addition to my morning espresso routine. Depending on where you turn the knob, the machine will stop grinding. I found that for a shot of espresso, turning the grinder knob center and slightly to the left gives the perfect amount for a great shot of espresso. The closer the espresso glass is to where the espresso comes out, the more important it is! A denser foam is formed. That's all I can think about now. It's a truly amazing car and I loved waking up and knowing I was going down to that bad boy.