This Casabrews is one rockin’ little espresso machine, overwhelmingly exceeding my expectations.Within the universe of espresso machines, where commercial grade, European units can cost several thousand dollars, within which I’ve always considered a low-cost, home use machine to cost somewhere in the $350 - $500 range, so at $130 for the Casabrews, my expectations were set to avoid disappointment. As said, I am more than pleasantly surprised.The Casabrews 20 Bar pump pushes out a nice creamy espresso that is as delicious as any I’ve tasted. And that’s not what I expected; it dispenses a professional quality espresso that can be drank as is or joined with frothed milk for a cappuccino, a latte, or macchiato. Or, add hot water to make an Americano.The built in Steam Frother is every bit as efficient as the 20 Bar espresso pump; it dispenses hot steam that, depending on how its manipulated in the milk, will result in an airy froth to top a cappuccino, or a thick whipped topping for a latte. In fact, frothing milk is a skill in its own right, however included with the machine are clearly illustrated tips on how to best “froth.” Considering the cost of a double espresso these days, if espresso is your thing, the Casabrews will probably pay for itself in less than a month. And it’s easy to use.The all stainless steel Espresso machine is attractive with a small, narrow footprint, taking up very little counter space. It has a built-in water reservoir, that makes it ideal for use at home, the office or anywhere there’s convenient power. Once powered on, its 1350W boiler preheats the machine in less than two minutes, very quickly indeed, and is then ready to go. The portafilter, which is a solid and well-made accessory, holds either a single or double shot filter. Once filled with espresso ground coffee it fits into a bayonet mount and is rotated 90°, clamping it tightly to the pressurized water stream. The high quality of the portafilter and bayonet clamp makes a significant contribution to the resulting espresso.Included with the Espresso Machine is a copious amount of fully illustrated documentation instructing on how to setup and use the machine, along with all the tips needed for successful frothing and espresso making. The instructions also include links and QR codes to instructional videos and techniques, making it obvious that Casabrews is interested in the espresso making success of their customers.A perusal of the Casabrews Amazon store makes clear that they specialize in espresso machines in a variety of sizes and price points. Their 20 Bar espresso machine is positive proof that considerable expertise has gone into designing a budget priced home espresso machine that performs like one costing much more.
