I am pretty new to coffee and espresso (don't even drink it myself), but with the help of this site I am learning fast.
I am about to open a dessert bar that will include coffee and espresso drinks.
I have found a local dealer here in Houston that will sell and service the machines. After meeting with them, they suggested several different machines - all 2 Group Automatic Tall machines. I chose the automatic just because the shop is out in the suburbs and I don't think I will be able to attract and keep the barista talent that would make a difference with a semi-automatic machine.
That being said, here are the machines they suggested: 1) Rancilio classe 7 2) Rancilio Classe 8 3) Rancilio Classe 9 4) Faema Emblema 5) LaSpaziale S5
I was leaning towards the Classe 7 or 8 - mostly based on what I have read about the Rancilio brand as well as the cost. It is my understanding that the Classe 8 is discontinued - any reason to avoid it? Which of these would you recommend? Or do I need to keep looking?
In addition, they suggested a couple of different grinders (which I have learned is probably more important than the espresso machine itself). 1) Laranzato HC600 (supposedly uses Mazzer parts?) 2) Brasilia RR450D
Are these any good or do I just need to get a Mazzer?
And the last question is:
If I buy their coffee (of course) they are willing to throw in the coffee brewer/grinder on loan. They are offering: 1) Bunn CWTF-15APS Brewer + Bunn G2 Grinder
I am not going to let them dictate my coffee choice, but just wanted to get an understanding as to if this was decent equipment or not.
My ultimate goal is to not be known as a "coffee shop", but to be known to have really good coffee. And it has to be better than Starbucks :-)
Well, at least Classe 8 machines are no longer mentioned on Rancilio's homepage, but that doesn't mean that there will be no more support or spare parts. As a discontinued model you might be able to get a discount though.
Have you thought about getter a Rocket Espresso Linea Professionale?
However, it's very important to have a local dealer who will also service the machine.
Since you'll need more than just one grinder (like for decaf), take a look at the Mahlkönig K30 Twin.
*** "This drink of the Satan is so delicious that it would be a shame to leave it to the infidels." (Pope Clement VIII on coffee)
Any model of rancilio you will choose based on your budget and features, in my opinion you will be in good hands, Rancilio USA has been doing an excellent job with a very extensive network of qualify techs and company to take care of any after sale "issues", of course do make sure you have one of them near that can take care of maintenance etc etc when needed, just as usual do not overlook the water softening, which is a misatke that a lot of commercial customer do, thinking that they have soft water, if so base this onf facts not just on "they told us" you can test your water with very inexpensive kits or I will assume that the company that will install the machine for you will do that as well and recommend the perfect system for you
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