Dalla Corte Mini Espresso Machine

Dalla Corte Mini

A home espresso machine that has really slipped into the mix with ninja-like precision is the Dalla Corte Mini.  I have used the Dalla Corte Evolution 2 Group and have been impressed with the workmanship and the options available on these relatively unknown machines.  The Mini, is basically a... well, "mini" version of the Evolution.  Apparently the same grouphead is used on both, as well as the ability to independently set the grouphead temperature... which is quite unique for home espresso machines.  The cost is admittedly expensive.  I was just chatting with a friend about this.  I don't really understand why someone would drop 2 grand on an espresso machine and not spend the few extra bucks to get it directly plumbed into the house water supply.  Someday, I hope to be able to afford a good home espresso unit, and when I do, you can bet I am going to plumb it in so i don't have to use a pitcher everytime I want a good shot.  Maybe it's not that annoying, but it makes sense to me.  Also, figuring out a good long term drain solution seems to be equally important.  These two mods to a home espresso setup might not seem like much, but it seems that, for the people who have them, the benefits far outweigh the negatives.

If you want some advice on plumbing in your espresso machine, check out this Home Barista thread: Plumb in Espreso Machine (How To)?

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Anyway, if you are looking into buying a good machine, I invite you to consider a less known one, but a good one:

The Dalla Corte Mini Espresso Machine 


...and that's the way I see it from the Captain's Chair...