If you love espresso and you need another cup like yesterday, then your problem can only really be solved by purchasing a super automatic espresso machine. These machines are a dream come true for the true caffeine aficionado. Now if you could just install one into a DeLorean and get said DeLorean up to 88 mph, you might actually be able to get your next cup yesterday.
Enough about sweet 80's movies-let's talk about price. I hope you have some extra change between those couch cushions because these babies can run between $500 and $4000! Of course, the cheaper end of the spectrum takes you into semi automatic territory and might be stretching your view of the word "super." But if that's the case, I'm not sure why you aren't just throwing back a tablespoon or two of coffee grounds on your way out the door... I mean, semi-automatic is still a far cry from DIY. If you are planning to make your living off of espresso however, that $4000 commercial espresso machine may be well worth the investment. And truly worth the title of super automatic espresso machine.
Let's break down exactly how these machines found their way into superiority. You do two things: 1. Buy the beans. 2. Push a button. Well, maybe there are a few more steps, but basically the machine can be programmed to measure, grind, and tamp the specified (by you) amount of beans and turn it into a steamy and delicious cup of espresso for your bloodstream. Oh, and it cleans up after itself-just like Rosie! And you get all that from a starter model!
The features just start piling up, the more cash you lay down. Look for modular frothing features, settings that let you choose the strength of your espresso (double, triple strength!), temperature controls (of course, true die-hards will drink it at any temperature), and even cup warmers!? Remember the "cleans up after itself" from a second ago? Well let me lay it out for you: A really super super automatic will have an internal dump box for used grounds (with a beeper that says "I'm full!"), and a setting that will descale (remove mineral build up from the machine's inner workings). Say goodbye to running vinegar through your machine-no flavor compromises here!
All these bells and whistles can start to overwhelm, but it will pay to do your research. If you are only a casual espresso drinker, you might not want a machine like this. And if you are a purist and want to make it yourself (if you are, I bet you quit reading a few hundred words ago), don't even spend a dime. But if you can step easily into the image I have conjured up in my brain as a fast-paced, suit-wearing, on-the-go, soccer mom-lawyer-doctor, a super automatic espresso machine is for you.
