Mastering Your Espresso Machine at Home

A great cup of coffee can set the tone for your day and with the right espresso machine, you don’t need to rely on your local café. From choosing your machine to pulling the perfect shot, this guide will help you master barista-style coffee at home.

Choosing the Right Espresso Machine

Espresso machines are becoming a staple in Australian kitchens. Whether you're on a budget or ready to invest in a high-end model, there’s a machine to suit every home barista.

• Budget-friendly options: Kmart or Aldi machines under $100 are perfect for beginners looking to cut café spending without compromising too much on quality.

• High-end picks: Brands like Breville or Rocket start around $500, offering precision, consistency, and long-term value for daily coffee lovers.

Explore our online store to browse espresso machines for all budgets and skill levels.

How Espresso Machines Work

Espresso machines force hot, pressurised water through finely ground coffee, producing a concentrated, flavour-rich shot topped with crema.

Whether you're using a budget or premium model, the core function is the same. The key is learning how to prep, extract, and fine-tune each step.

Essential Equipment

To get started, you’ll need a few tools:

• Espresso machine - We recommend the Breville Bambino Plus for its compact design, automatic steam wand, and fast heat-up time.

• Freshly ground coffee - Choose a grind rated 4.7 on the scale. Our Private Blend offers a smooth, nutty flavour, while our Espresso Blend delivers full-bodied, chocolatey notes. Alternatively, try our Sample Pack to explore four of our favourite blends - Espresso, Zuri, Arriba Arriba, and Single Origin.

• Coffee grinder (optional) - For the freshest brew, grind your beans just before brewing. If you prefer convenience, select your grind type when ordering online or visit our brewhouse for custom grinding.

• Other tools - Include a measuring spoon, tamp (we suggest the Rhino Coffee Tamper), and the Pro Tamper Mat and your favourite mug.

How to Brew Espresso at Home

Follow these simple steps to brew rich, barista-style espresso at home using your machine:

1. Fill the water tank with filtered water and turn on the machine.

2. Flush the group head to warm it up and remove any residue.

3. Purge the steam wand before and after each use.

4. Fill the portafilter with ground coffee and tamp evenly.

5. Lock the handle in place, position your cup, and start the shot.

6. The espresso should flow like warm honey - smooth and steady.

7. If adding milk, froth or steam it using the wand and pour over the espresso.

Tips for Better Espresso

1. Extraction matters:

   • A fast pour usually means under-extraction (sour taste). Try a finer grind.

   • A slow drip suggests over-extraction (bitter taste). Use a coarser grind.

2. Use fresh beans:

   Buy whole beans and grind just before use. If using pre-ground, order in smaller quantities and use promptly.

3. Practice and learn:

   Start with online tutorials - YouTube or your machine brand’s site are great resources. When you're ready to level up, join our espresso course to learn dosing, tamping, milk texturising, and more from professional baristas.

Elevate Your At-Home Coffee Experience

With the right tools and a bit of practice, you can enjoy café-quality espresso from the comfort of home. Once you've found the right machine to suit your budget and needs, you’ll be able to experiment with different beans, perfect your pour, and explore a whole new world of flavours and textures. Master your espresso machine and turn every cup into a satisfying, barista-style experience.