So, you’ve got a caffeine addiction and a kitchen counter begging for a statement piece. You’ve seen the Breville BES870XL and you’re thinking – is this the right machine for me?
The Barista Express (BES870XL) is their all-in-one solution: grinder, espresso maker, and milk steamer, all wrapped in a sleek stainless-steel package. The promise? Cafe-quality espresso without the pretentious barista – but is it worth the hype?
Let’s find out.
Update:
BEST PRICE on the Breville BES870XL Barista Express Espresso Machine here:
First Impressions
Right off the bat, let me tell you, this machine is a looker. Stainless steel, sturdy build, it’s got that industrial-chic vibe that screams, “I take my coffee seriously, but I’m not a pretentious asshole.” But like a moody lover, it’s got its quirks.
The learning curve is steeper than you might expect. Dialing in the grind, tamping just right, getting the perfect crema… it’s a dance, not a one-night stand. But once you’ve mastered the moves, the payoff is damn good espresso.
Key Features
Dose-Control Grinding: The built-in conical burr grinder is a godsend. It grinds beans directly into the portafilter, ensuring freshness and consistency that’ll make you weep with joy. You can even adjust the grind size on the fly, depending on your bean choice and the whims of your caffeine-addled mind.
PID Temperature Control: In the world of espresso, precision is king. The Barista Express’s PID controller guards the temperature of your water with unwavering vigilance. Every shot is as perfect as the last – love it.
Microfoam Milk Steaming: If lattes and cappuccinos are your love language, this is your Shakespearean sonnet. The steam wand is powerful enough to whip up that silky microfoam that makes your coffee art-worthy. You’ll be channeling your inner Michelangelo in no time.
Pros
Taste: Once you’ve tamed this beast, it can produce espresso that rivals your favorite coffee shop. The crema is a rich, velvety blanket, the flavor is bold and complex, and the aroma… oh, the aroma.
Value: Compared to other espresso machines with built-in grinders, the Barista Express is a bargain.
Versatility: This machine isn’t just a one-trick pony. It can pull a mean Americano or lungo, and the steam wand is your ticket to a world of milky delights – lattes, cappuccinos, even hot chocolate for those moments when your inner child craves something sweet.
Cons
Learning Curve: As I mentioned, this isn’t a machine for the faint of heart. It takes time, patience, and a healthy dose of stubbornness to get consistent results.
Cleaning: Let’s face it, cleaning an espresso machine is about as fun as a root canal. The Barista Express has a few nooks and crannies that require attention, so be prepared to sacrifice some precious minutes of your day to appease this caffeinated deity.
Size: This ain’t no dainty little Nespresso machine. The Barista Express demands its own chunk of counter real estate, so make sure you’ve got the space before you invite it into your home.
Final Thoughts
If you’re serious about your home espresso game and you’re willing to put in the time to learn, then the Barista Express is absolutely worth it. It’s not perfect, but it’s a damn good machine that can produce exceptional results.
Best Price On Breville Barista Express:
I’ve found you the current best deal on the Breville Barista Express, so be sure to follow the link below so you don’t get gouged paying full retail:
Leave a Reply