I am lucky to be in the presence of coffee aficionados, I like to consider myself one of them, but unfortunately with barista and coffee house ownership experience under their belts, they kinda pants me on this one. They have taught me the value of appreciating good quality coffee, and also coffee rules, especially relating to espresso, and especially when eyeing up the sometimes slack behaviour of chains and the tendancy of the lazy to just plonk it all in together.
Taking into consideration all of the above, they come in valuable when deciding to splurge on a new coffee machine. I've got a couple now, I've only been daring enough to buy the filter plonk type of machines, but now I'm after something with bar power, I want the gadgets, I want minature versions of the thermometers, the milk jugs, the temps all of it I want my own, I think I can handle it now. But I am lazy, in that why should I make it myself and ensure I have fresh milk in, when there are several excellent coffee places all within sniffing distance.
I walked in and as usual there's a jolly face smiling back at me asking me if I need any help this time, I've brought my back up, and as opposed to letting me make any foolish mistakes, off they go on their own cooing and poking at the gorgeous Gaggia machines.
There's so much to choose from and I am convinced I'm not ready for this, so off I go and start looking at the range of espresso cups and saucers, and coffee mugs, and even the espresso itself. It appears that amongst the red walls, the smell of coffee, and all that shiny shiny silver, my dear friend has fallen in love, she's spotted the perfect machine, and it's an almost exact copy of another she's seen, except it's half the price, £150, it's beautiful and she's very happy.
The smiley jolly lady explained the basics of the gorgeous Gaggia, and my friend, not wanting to be smug or anything quietly took it all in, grateful of the help, and you can always learn something from repeat information. This little beauty makes some cracking coffee, and is well worth the trip and investment for gorgeous lattes in your kitchen, on demand. read more