Espresso Blog

Factors of a Grinder Investment

The quality of an espresso shot involves a lot of factors.  Most people focus on the espresso machine or the quality of the coffee being used.  However, as important in the production of a perfect shot of espresso is, the coffee grinder and the quality of the unit play an equally important role.  Espresso requires a very fine, consistent coffee grind to brew correctly, and thus a specifically designed and engineered professional grinder is required. Choosing the correct size and model for speed, efficiency, and consistent quality to match up with your espresso machine and peak demand is key.

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5 Keys to Operational Success

In order to run a smooth operation, much lies behind the scene. Preparing a great cup of espresso is both an art and a science, but the final product of a well-run operation is largely dependent on a few key, strategic steps.
  • If you are not pouring 20+ second shots of espresso, you are not making espresso.
  • Grinder maintenance is key to product quality, as your grinder is cutting the coffee.
  • Brewing espresso is a culinary process. Proper training, management, cleaning, and maintenance will ensure a quality product. Do not count on your taste buds or your staff’s opinions. Use your...

Your Choice in Water isn't Hard

When it comes to the water used in the espresso process, the consideration for taste, odor, and particulate matter should not be the only concern.  While the filtration process should always be included in ice and drink preparation, it is not the only precaution that should be taken.

The use of hard water (7 grains of hardness or greater) can prove itself to be a costly endeavor, as it leads the breakdown of equipment and the further pain of potentially having a business temporarily out of operation for machine repairs. If you choose to open your business in a location that has hard water, you...

Why Shopping Local Makes Sense

Personal, reputable, efficient.

In most markets it’s a good idea to shop as locally as possible, and the world of commercial espresso machines is no exception. Being clientele of a local espresso equipment vendor provides several advantages, including the ability to take a hands-on approach to your buying process. You have the opportunity to talk to their current customers and personally view the machines they sell. Additionally, the cost of ordering and time wasted on shipping are substantially reduced, not to mention the elimination of risk you would take if you were unsatisfied with your...

Commercial Espresso Machine Definitions

Espresso Machine Operating Types

There are two machine types of commercial espresso machine and of those two vairations there are several operating types within.  The following are the basic descriptions of the machines avaialble on the market.

Traditional Manual

A manual commercial espresso machine is operated by literally moving a lever with your hand. The lever controls a hydraulic piston which creates the pressure necessary to brew the espresso. Very few commercial machines exist anymore operating by this method. 

Traditional Semi-Automatic

A semi-automatic commercial espresso machine...

Slow Times calls for Higher Quality, Better Focus in Specialty Coffee

by Peter Kelsch

From the Cup to the Customer Service

Knowing that your customers can now pull through a McDonalds drive-thru and order a Mocha is all the more reason for an independent coffee shop to make sure that they have not only a noticeably better product than a fast food chain, but also the most consistent drink  and best presentation. This means reviewing everything from the cup to the customer service. 

Customer Retention

When pressed to upgrade the quality of products being used, we often hear customers say, “But my customers love my drinks.” This may be true based on feedback you...

Coffee Menu Item Pricing

The True Profit

by Peter Kelsch

The illusion also exists that making more profit per drink is the most important factor. This is only true if you develop enough sales volume for that item. You may make $3 on every Supreme Deluxe Low Cost Smoothie (yes, we’re making this brand up!) that you sell. However, because the quality isn’t there, you’ll only sell 10 smoothies per day, resulting in $30 of profit. If you upgrade to Botanica Smoothies and make $2.50 per smoothie, you may sell 30 per day, resulting in $75 of profit.

Remember, profit margin is relative to volume, and you gain volume when...

Honest, High-Quality Coffee & Espresso Drinks

 by Peter Kelsch

While we encourage you to keep your menu simple, don’t be afraid to offer new items or run seasonal specials. Look over your product lines and consider adding special or select items within a category. We offer free samples of products and would be happy to send you some to compare with your current product lines or just to add something new and fresh to your menu. Overall, be honest with yourself and make sure that you’re offering the best drinks that you can. When the next fast food chain begins to offer specialty coffee drinks, it will be the independents who are...

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