olivemagazine
type: channel
link: https://www.olivemagazine.com
date: 2025-11-05T12:26:32.000Z
update period: hourly
update frequency: 1
update base: 2000-01-01T12:00+00:00
items: Best bean-to-cup coffee machines to buy 2025, tried and tested by experts
items: Best coffee pod machines for fuss-free coffee, tried and tested 2025
items: Best espresso machines to buy in 2025
items: Best slow cookers UK to buy in 2025, tried and tested by reviews experts
items: Jamaican cuisine: 10 things we love
items: Best Nespresso machines and accessories for 2024
items: The best coffee machines for a barista-like experience at home
items: Best Lavazza coffee machines and accessories to buy in 2023
items: Save £400 on the SMEG Bean-to-Cup coffee machine with Lavazza's Roast and Ground subscription
items: Hotel Chocolat The Podster review
items: Wacaco Picopresso portable espresso machine review
items: How we review coffee machines, appliances and other products at olive
items: Smeg bean-to-cup coffee machine review
items: Nespresso Vertuo Next coffee pod machine review
items: Lavazza A Modo Mio SMEG coffee pod machine
items: Lavazza Jolie coffee pod machine review
items: Grind One coffee pod machine review
items: illy E.S.E coffee pod machine review
items: Breville Barista Max bean-to-cup espresso machine review
items: Smarter coffee machine review
items: De'Longhi La Specialista Maestro bean-to-cup espresso machine review
items: Gaggia Magenta Plus bean-to-cup coffee machine review
items: Little Kasai Konro Grill review
items: Flair Signature espresso maker
items: SMEG ECF01 home espresso machine

Best bean-to-cup coffee machines to buy 2025, tried and tested by experts
type: item
date: 2025-11-05T10:48:39.000Z
creator: Anya Gilbert
subject: Guides
subject: Reviews
subject: Coffee
subject: Product
description: Maximum flavour, minimum faff and all at the touch of a button. Read our reviews of the best bean-to-cup coffee machines
encoded: For anyone who derives more pleasure from drinking a freshly brewed cup of coffee than the process of making it, speedy bean-to-cup coffee machines are the perfect coffee gadgets. They take the effort-factor away, offering automation at every stage from the grinding of whole beans to dosing, tamping and brewing. A broad range of settings to tailor your coffee are usually on offer. Some can even be connected to wirelessly and controlled via smart home devices or a smartphone app, so you don’t even have to be in the kitchen to set a cup to brew. The technology behind this type of offering means these machines are usually large and pricey. But don’t be intimidated. We’ve broken down the differences between bean-to-cup machines versus espresso machines. We walk you through what to look for and share our tried-and-tested top picks of the best bean-to-cup coffee machines below. For more coffee reviews, check out our full guide to the best coffee machines featuring picks of the best espresso machines and the best coffee pod machines. For a little inspiration, discover the best coffee subscriptions and the best gifts for coffee lovers. Make your own homemade coffee syrup using our step-by-step recipe and discover more advice and buyer’s guides on everything from the top British gins and best English vineyard breaks to Gozney vs Ooni pizza ovens and best small air fryers in our reviews section. View Affiliate Playlist on the source website Jump to: Best bean-to-cup coffee machines at a glance How to choose the best bean-to-cup coffee machine Best bean-to-cup coffee machines to buy in 2025 What's the difference between bean-to-cup coffee machines and espresso machines? What to look for in a bean-to-cup coffee machine How we tested bean-to-cup coffee machines Best bean-to-cup coffee machines at a glance Best Sage bean-to-cup coffee machine: Sage the Barista Touch Impress with cold extraction, £1,199.95 Best semi-automatic bean-to-cup coffee machine: Ninja Luxe Café Pro Series,…

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Best coffee pod machines for fuss-free coffee, tried and tested 2025
type: item
date: 2025-03-17T12:48:22.000Z
creator: Anya Gilbert
subject: Guides
subject: Reviews
subject: Coffee
subject: Products
description: Coffee pod machines are a quick, mess-free solution to brewing short coffees at the touch of a button. We've rounded up the best to choose from.
encoded: Espresso is at the heart of every classic coffee and the best coffee pod machines will produce a richly dark, aromatic shot in under 30 seconds from a protective capsule. Each pod contains the perfect measure for a single espresso and removes the need to faff around with grinding, dosing and tamping coffee grounds. The footprints of these machines are far more compact than bean-to-cup coffee machines, so for smaller kitchens or limited countertop space, are a space-saving option for making short coffees. They also keep all the mess of using ground coffee contained. If milky coffee-classics are your favourites, we’d recommend pairing a coffee pod machine with one of our tried-and-tested favourite milk frothers. Speed is another reason to consider a pod machine. These machines force heated water from its tank into the coffee pods until they burst and release rich, quickly brewed espresso. Every machine will preheat after switch-on. From then, it’s possible to get an aroma-packed espresso shot or slightly longer lungo in under 30 seconds. Another advantage of these machines is the mess-free approach. It removes many of the other aspects of coffee-making like the grinding, dosing and tamping of grounds which makes the whole process much more user-friendly. For more coffee reviews, check out our full guide to the best coffee machines featuring picks of the best espresso machines and the best bean-to-cup coffee machines. Or for more coffee reviews, check out our best coffee subscriptions and best gifts for coffee lovers. If you're a fan of speciality coffee, read our guide to the best Sage coffee machines. Make your own homemade coffee syrup using our step-by-step recipe and discover more advice and buyer’s guides on everything from the best British gins and best English vineyard breaks to Gozney vs Ooni pizza ovens and best small air-fryers in our reviews section. View Affiliate Playlist on the source website Jump to: Best coffee pod machines at a glance Best coffee pod …

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Best espresso machines to buy in 2025
type: item
date: 2025-03-12T17:08:01.000Z
creator: Anya Gilbert
subject: Guides
subject: Reviews
subject: Coffee
subject: Drinks
description: Want to make barista-style coffee in your own kitchen? Discover tried-and-tested coffee machines for making the ultimate foundation to your coffee shop favourites — espresso
encoded: The espresso is a fundamental staple of coffee culture – the full-bodied, deliciously dark result of brewing coffee under pressure with hot water, characteristically topped with a velvety crema. This forms the basis of most coffee-house classics including cappuccino, latte, americanos and more. Traditional espresso machines use a pump mechanism to push near-boiling water through compacted coffee grounds with around 15 bars of pressure, and there is now a host to choose from for achieving barista-style coffee in your own kitchen. Espresso machines aren't always manual, but the process of tamping the ground coffee, loading and unloading the portafilter and steaming your milk is a hands-on experience you'll recognise from commercial coffee houses. And you don't have to be a seasoned barista to make great coffee either. Many machines offer the step-by-step guidance to walk you through creating espresso-based drinks, then the technical sophistication to brew richly flavoured and aromatic shots topped with caramel-coloured crema. Some will even teach you how to build latte art skills. For more coffee reviews, check out our best coffee subscriptions and best gifts for coffee lovers. Make your own homemade coffee syrup using our step-by-step recipe and discover more advice and buyer’s guides on everything from the best British gins and best English vineyard breaks to Gozney vs Ooni pizza ovens in our reviews section. View Affiliate Playlist on the source website Jump to section Best espresso machines at a glance Best espresso machines to buy in 2025 How to choose the best espresso machine Top tips for making great espresso every time How we tested espresso machines Best espresso machines at a glance Best automatic bean-to-cup espresso machine: KitchenAid Fully Automatic Espresso Machine KF8, £1,899 Best modern classic: Gaggia New Classic espresso machine, £549 Best compact bean-to-cup machine for espresso: De'Longhi La Specialista Arte manual espresso machine, £477.99 Best …

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Best slow cookers UK to buy in 2025, tried and tested by reviews experts
type: item
date: 2025-02-19T09:58:55.000Z
creator: Anya Gilbert
subject: Reviews
description: Energy-efficient and reliable, a slow cooker is the must-have appliance for batch-cooking and faff-free meals. Read our reviews of the best slow cookers
encoded: Slow-cooking is a method that unlocks the potential for making richly flavoured, beautifully textured dishes with minimal effort. Once all the ingredients are prepped and compiled, it’s a hands-off process left to low-and-slow heat distribution on functions that usually run for from four to eight hours, thus intensifying the flavours and tenderising meat (if using) until it can be scooped off the bone with a spoon. It’s also possible to find great-looking slow cookers that are sleek enough for the counter, but they vary in weight, depending on how many you'll be cooking for and therefore the size of cooker you'll need. We recommend considering how much storage space you have if you'll be lifting it between the countertop and cupboard. Multi-cookers generally offer slow-cooking among their roster of cooking functions, so are also great options for getting more from your money – we've included a few among our tried and tested favourites. Discover our full collection of slow-cooker recipes, with dishes for all seasons, including lighter slow-cooker recipes for summer, our healthy slow-cooker recipes and vegetarian slow-cooker recipes for packing in plenty of goodness. Just getting started? Let us guide you on how to use a slow cooker to get the most from your ingredients. Jump to: Best slow cookers UK at a glance Best slow cooker UK to buy in 2025 What to think about when buying a slow cooker UK How slow cookers work How we tested slow cookers View Affiliate Playlist on the source website Best slow cookers UK at a glance Best slow cooker for versatility: Ninja Foodi 8-Mode 6L PossibleCooker Rice & Slow Cooker MC1101UK, £99.99 Best allrounder slow cooker: Ninja Foodi PossibleCooker 8-in-1 slow cooker MC1001UK, £150 Best multi-cooker for slow-cooking and air-frying: Ninja Foodi 9-in-1 multi cooker OP350UK, £229.99 Best multi-cooker for slow-cooking and pressure-cooking: Sage the Fast Slow Pro, £199.95 Best large-capacity slow cooker: Swan Retro slow cooker, £23.99 Best h…

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Jamaican cuisine: 10 things we love
type: item
date: 2024-05-15T07:17:18.000Z
subject: North America
subject: Travel
subject: 10 things
description: Celeste Gordon, resident chef at Jamaica Food + Drink Kitchen, Kingston, shares what makes her heritage cuisine so special, plus where to eat, drink and stay while you're there
encoded: Learn all about what makes Jamaican cuisine special, from spices and seafood, to rum and coffee. Plus, discover some top places to eat on the island and the best places to stay. Feeling inspired to have a go at cooking some Jamaican cuisine yourself? Check out our recipes for Jamaican beef patties, Jamaican rum punch and a fluffy spiced Jamaican ginger cake. Jump to: Where to eat in Jamaica Where to stay in Jamaica Jamaican cuisine: 10 things we love Seasoning and spice Jamaican food is all about flavour and balance, and seasoning. Our food has layers, and that’s something I really love about it. Our soils enrich our produce in a way that’s unique. Spices like pimento, scallion, thyme, ginger, cloves and more combine to elevate the flavours, and add Jamaican character to dishes. Heat from scotch bonnet chillies is optional but popular. Seasonal seafood Snapper is the fish we tend to utilise the most, but we do get good mahi and wahoo. Those are the kind of big fish we can catch in our native waters. We also love grouper and mackerel, and sprats, which run at certain times of the year, traditionally eaten at Easter. We fry them until crispy and they’re everything! Generational skills sharing I tell people that all Jamaicans know how to cook. There are a lot of people that will tell you they don’t but intrinsically I think there is that spark of magic in us that we just love food, we know how to handle food, we grew up around it – a lot of what happens in your family and home life happens around food. You think of all the little tips and tricks you need to learn how to make a lot of different things. I think it’s a generational thing. Our food has been influenced by lots of different cultures. Ice cream on Sundays Surrounded by shade-giving mango and ackee trees in Kingston, I Scream at Devon House is famous for its award-winning Jamaican ice cream flavours and generously sized single-scoop cones. A weekend visit is a Sunday tradition for many locals and families, for…

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Best Nespresso machines and accessories for 2024
type: item
date: 2024-01-24T15:25:01.000Z
creator: Anya Gilbert
subject: Guides
subject: Reviews
subject: Coffee
description: Discover the best tried-and-tested Nespresso machines, coffee pods, accessories and extras available to buy right now
encoded: 30 years ago, global coffee giant Nespresso set out to create a machine that would enable coffee lovers to brew the perfect espresso at home. So, using an innovative approach that involved pre-portioned quantities, it released the coffee pod machine in 1986. Coffee pod machines are a convenient and mess-free solution for brewing single-serve measures of short and long coffees with or without steamed milk. There are multiple coffee pod varieties to choose from – we'll run you through the collections below, and share our favourites. Nespresso has a modern approach to technology, design and methods of sale. The brand doesn't have shops – it has 'boutiques', where customers are offered experiential engagement in the artistry behind the coffee blends from around the world. You're required to buy entirely into the brand with some Nespresso machines, so it's only right that the coffee growth, sourcing, production and brew are the centre of attention. The negative environmental impact of coffee pod machines and aluminium coffee pods is clear. In 2020, Nespresso launched The Positive Cup strategy that saw it tighten its approach to sustainability and ethics throughout the coffee production chain. Buying a coffee machine is a commitment, so we encourage you to do your research beforehand. Our guides to the best coffee machines (including espresso machines, coffee pod machines and bean to cup coffee machines) is a great place to start. It's no secret that Nespresso machines are on the pricier side of the pod machine market. If you're looking to save, we've written a guide on the best Nespresso offers which has all the best deals on machines and pod bundles available now. Jump to section: A guide to Nespresso Nespresso vs De'Longhi Best Nespresso machine to buy in 2024 Best Nespresso accessories Nespresso subscriptions: how do they work? Best Nespresso pods How to recycle your Nespresso pods How to clean your Nespresso machine A guide to Nespresso Nespresso coffee machine range…

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The best coffee machines for a barista-like experience at home
type: item
date: 2024-01-09T13:08:37.000Z
creator: Anya Gilbert
subject: Guides
subject: Reviews
subject: Coffee
subject: Product
description: Bean-to-cup, espresso or coffee pod? We explain the difference and how to choose the best coffee machine for your requirements.
encoded: For those partial to a cup of coffee, the aroma of freshly brewed espresso is a satisfying way to start the day, or keep you going all day long. A home coffee machine is one way to not only save money on expensive coffee shop prices, but also the unnecessary wastage of reusable cups. Coffee machines allow you to brew professional-style espresso topped with silky crema at home; the staple which forms the basis of most coffee shop classics. Whether you want fully-automated convenience and coffee at the touch of a button, or the gratifying connection to your cup of coffee that comes with a hands-on machine, there are lots of coffee machines to choose from. Prices of coffee machines vary from £25 to £2,000, and can be compact models or showstopper features of your countertop. There’s no point in paying for sophisticated personalisation features if all you’re after is a delicious americano, or dedicating half your surface to a machine that won't get used. So, with this in mind, we’ve rounded up our tried and tested favourite coffee machines to help you make great coffee at home. We've chosen machine from each category, but for more information read the full guides for best coffee pod machines, best espresso machines and best bean-to-cup machines. Treat yourself to the full experience and serve your coffee in one of our favourite espresso cups and coffee mugs. View Affiliate Playlist on the source website Jump to: Best coffee machines at a glance Types of coffee machine Best coffee machines 2024 How to choose the best coffee machine How we tested coffee machines Best coffee machines at a glance Espresso machines Best modern classic: Gaggia New Classic espresso machine, £489 Best mid-range espresso machine: SMEG ECF01 home espresso machine, £259 Most stylish espresso machine: De’Longhi Dedica EC685.M manual espresso maker, £179.99 Coffee pod machines Best for speciality coffee and variety: Morning Coffee Machine, £349 Best blowout coffee pod machine: Grind One, £295 Best s…

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Best Lavazza coffee machines and accessories to buy in 2023
type: item
date: 2022-11-23T12:19:18.000Z
creator: Anya Gilbert
subject: Guides
subject: Reviews
description: We've done a deep dive into the world of Lavazza coffee machines and accessories to make it easy for you - read on for our guide to tried-and-tested products
encoded: In 1895, Luigi Lavazza opened his first store in Turin, Italy and his study of roasting and blending coffee beans has helped shape popular coffee culture today. The brand is now as known for its coffee machines as it is for its coffee beans and blends – and the business is still family-run. The A Modo Mio collection of coffee pod machines sits at the heart of Lavazza's branded equipment. This pre-portioned method of brewing removes the need to grind, dose and tamp loose coffee grounds allowing for a quicker, richer shot without the mess. And Lavazza coffee pods differ from others like Nespresso and ESE in a few ways – namely the shape, as coffee pods aren’t one-size-fits-all, but also that the grounds are compacted inside the pod, much like you tamp loose coffee grounds for making espresso. This allows for a more even pre-infusion and extraction of espresso, reliably topped with a caramel-coloured crema. Compostable eco caps are suitable for putting in your food waste – an essential step for any coffee brand that cares about its carbon footprint and the environmental impact of waste created by coffee pods. We’ve tested the entire Lavazza coffee machine collection to bring you our top-rated favourites, along with its milk frothers, coffee grinders, accessories and coffee. For more coffee guides and recipe inspiration from olive experts, discover our full guides to the best espresso machines, coffee pod machines and bean-to-cup coffee machines, tried and tested by reviews experts. Best Lavazza coffee machines 2023 Lavazza Jolie coffee pod machine Best basic coffee pod machine Available from Lavazza, £95 Score: 4.5/5 stars This is a neatly compact and user-friendly coffee pod machine that's been around for a few years, but consistently earns its place against newer coffee pod machines across the market, offering the simple espresso and lungo coffee options at the touch of its (only) button. Latest Deals Lavazza A Modo Mio Smeg Best coffee pod machine for retro style Av…

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Save £400 on the SMEG Bean-to-Cup coffee machine with Lavazza's Roast and Ground subscription
type: item
date: 2022-05-09T09:14:40.000Z
creator: Anya Gilbert
subject: Guides
subject: Reviews
encoded: All your favourite Lavazza blends without the faff, plus an irresistible saving on the SMEG Bean-to-Cup coffee machine However you enjoy your coffee, great flavour starts with great beans. Lavazza’s brand new Roast and Ground subscription is the perfect way to stock up on your favourite Italian blends and find new classics with the convenience of having them delivered directly to your door for no extra cost. Whether you favour ground or whole-bean coffee, you’re in full control. Tailor delivery to when suits you best and pause or modify dates and times when you’re away. New subscribers will save 15% with every coffee order over 2kg with Lavazza’s Roast & Ground coffee subscriptions. Plus, Lavazza has continued its collaboration with SMEG to offer new subscribers the <a href="https://www.awin1.com/cread.php?id=489797&clickref=olivemagazine-174851&awinmid=12642&p=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.lavazza.co.uk%2Fen%2Fmy-way-coffee-subscription%2Fcoffee-machine-and-beans%2Fsmeg%3Fawc%3D12642_1652181532_b2df8103e33c8f618349d1e66b1209c5%26utm_source%3Dawin%26utm_medium%3Dcpc%26utm_campaign%3Dgb%257Calwayson%257Cd%257C01-2021%257Cimage%257Cprospecting%257Cnone%257Csearch" rel="sponsored" target="_blank">SMEG Bean-to-Cup coffee machine for £299.95, a saving of £400 on the £699.95 RRP when they sign up for a minimum of 10 bean deliveries. Discover Lavazza’s newly launched Roast & Ground subscription SMEG Bean-to-Cup coffee machine When SMEG added its diminutive, compact and classy whole-bean coffee machine to its collection, it moved the goal posts for machines traditionally notorious for their chunky footprint. Olive’s coffee experts rated it five stars when tested against the best bean-to-cup coffee machines on the market and you can save £400 on the RRP in tandem with Lavazza’s whole-bean subscription. Read our full SMEG Bean-to-Cup coffee machine review Lavazza coffee bean subscription Grinding beans freshly unlocks flavours that offer a fully rounded cup of coffee every time. The perf…

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Hotel Chocolat The Podster review
type: item
date: 2021-12-22T16:28:48.000Z
creator: Anya Gilbert
subject: Reviews
description: We tried out Hotel Chocolat's new coffee machine offering – read on to discover whether the espresso was up to the test
encoded: Just occasionally, small appliances surprise you with the quantity of character they bring the countertop. The picture doesn't do this little coffee pod machine justice. Its matte charcoal chocolate exterior and rounded edges combined with small elements of flair make using it a simple and satisfying experience; we're talking soft-touch drink selection buttons, an engraved pod loader, textured lever handle and steel cup holder. Buy from Hotel Chocolat, £149.95 At £149.95, it's perhaps a little pricey for the simple espresso and lungo functions it offers, compatible with Nespresso pods. More versatile machines are available for less. However, the quality of its build combined with the espresso it produces means it still feels worth paying that little bit extra for. A Podcycler is included in the box for prepping the pods for to be recycled – a good example that all coffee brands encouraging the use of coffee pods should follow. Read our full guides to the best coffee machines, the best coffee pod machines and the best eco-friendly coffee pods How easy is it to set up The Podster? Hotel Chocolat presents its products in ways that make the unboxing feel like an event and this was no different. The packaging was also plastic-free, with the machine protected by a white fabric cloth rather than the traditional thin-film bag. There's very little guidance on machine set-up or specifications, but thankfully it's very intuitive. The water tank slots into the back from above, but has a small flip-up door for top-ups. It's a practical capacity without being too large, meaning you're encouraged to change the water often. It can become all too tempting not to do this with larger water tanks, particularly considering the small coffee options. We flushed the machine through four times before use until getting a well-rounded coffee free from a plasticky smell. On the countertop, it was compact in width, so slotted in nicely under cupboards, but we had to pull the machine forwards fo…

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Wacaco Picopresso portable espresso machine review
type: item
date: 2021-11-05T11:21:52.000Z
creator: Anya Gilbert
subject: Reviews
description: Wacaco's latest portable espresso machine features a double-shot filter basket and integrated, purpose-built coffee tools. Read on for our verdict
encoded: Wacaco Picopresso portable espresso maker summary Wacaco calls this their most pro-orientated manual espresso machine and it's easy to see why. The double-shot filter basket opens the user up to more coffee-house classics than the Wacaco Minipresso GR, or even making two single-shot drinks at once. The portafilter is 'naked', meaning the espresso isn't channelled into a splitter before hitting your cup. It's also the industry-standard size of 52cm across with an 18g capacity. Using the Italian Espresso National Institute metrics, this will in theory produce two 25ml cups of espresso. Available from Wacaco (£109.90) The manual pump goes way beyond the nine-bar pressure required to pull these shots. It's Wacaco's most versatile coffee maker and the compiling of its 14 component parts demands focus, time and attention. This is the perfect coffee gift for anyone who finds that the hands-on process of brewing coffee adds to the enjoyment of the final product. Read our full guide to the best espresso machines. What's in the box? A double-shot filter basket, tamper, measurement scoop, cleaning brush, distribution pin and funnel are contained within the Picopresso's main body. A zip-up case is also included for protecting it on the go. Set up A tool is provided for you to mimic every step of the commercial coffee-making process on a smaller, portable scale – with the exception of milk frothing. The small instruction booklet is diagram heavy so an easy one to whizz through. Broken down, the Picopresso has 14 parts. You're guided on how they fit together and given step-by-step instructions for brewing, including tips on how to get the best from your brew (such as weighing the beans), plus a QR code that leads to a grind-size guide for ultra-fine beans. Each component has a quality feel, from the screw thread of the portafilter to the flat weight of the tamper. The body is pleasingly grippy. Plus the design is undeniably smart. Nifty quirks such as the grounds scoop which has …

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How we review coffee machines, appliances and other products at olive
type: item
date: 2021-10-12T09:38:54.000Z
creator: Anya Gilbert
subject: Guides
subject: Reviews
subject: Products
subject: taste tests
description: Here at olive, we have high standards. We demand a lot from the products we test and only the best are ever featured in our buyer’s guides.
encoded: Everything is tried, tested and scored against criteria not only designed to challenge the products, but reflect the everyday needs of consumers, so that you can feel confident you’re choosing from the strongest products on the market for your budget. Whether it’s the best gins to buy, the best coffee machines for making barista-style coffee in your own kitchen or for our in-depth wine guides, our reviews experts put a carefully researched cross-section of products through their paces to find those that perform above and beyond, are value-for-money and will look great in your kitchen. Discover more food inspiration from olive including restaurant reviews, plenty of drinks and recipes, from comforting classics with innovative twists, to the perfect bakes, cakes and ideas for special occasions. Mindful slow-cooking and ideas to support your gut health are also available, with tips from our health editor and qualified nutritionist, Tracey Raye. Jump to section What we review Why you can trust us How products are scored Meet our expert product reviewers What we review You will find tried-and-tested expert advice on our site through buyer’s guides, individual product reviews, gifts guides and taste tests. Every product category is extensively researched to include products that are newly launched or well-reviewed stalwarts from luxury brands, budget-friendly brands and everything in between. After being scored against a strict set of criteria, all are awarded out of 5 stars. Products must achieve at least 3/5 stars to feature in our buyer’s guides and only the best of the best achieve 5/5 status. Why you can trust us All products tested for potential inclusion in our guides are done so impartially to ensure that only the top performers feature, so the advice we offer is unbiased and trusted to help you make an informed decision. All our testers are experienced food and appliance experts specialising in products that make the kitchen the centre of a home and food an every…

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Smeg bean-to-cup coffee machine review
type: item
date: 2021-09-16T14:51:24.000Z
creator: Anya Gilbert
subject: Reviews
encoded: Smeg bean-to-cup coffee machine summary Luxury home appliances brand Smeg has long been respected for its statement gadgets that ooze Italian style and boast excellent build-quality. But lacking from its retro 1950’s collection was a bean-to-cup coffee machine – until now. The new BCC01 and BCC02 bean-to-cup coffee machines carry the same synonymous soft lines in a surprisingly compact footprint and are available in four colours. We tested the BCC02 which offers a milk steam wand that's adjustable by 45-degrees for use directly in a cup, mug or traditional milk steamer jug. This bean-to-cup machine really is compact – neither heavy nor over-dominating on a kitchen countertop and this is a huge positive when weighed against other models. We want one in our own kitchen. Read our full guide to the best bean-to-cup coffee machines What was the Smeg BCC02 bean-to-cup coffee machine like to use? Packaging is plastic-free and the lightweight body is easy to lift up and out from the box onto the countertop. The frontage and removeable drip tray both have a brushed metal finish, practical for repelling greasy fingermarks. This type of coffee machine is traditionally bulky and boxy, but in contrast, Smeg’s BCC02 is smaller than an average microwave. And this is a game-changer that makes it a great choice for anyone with less kitchen space. It’s advisable to connect the power cord before filling the water tanks for the first time. The positioning also means the machine can be pushed right back against the wall when the water tank is full. We were actually able to fit a whole dinner plate in front of the machine by removing the drip tray, so that makes additional space for preparing meals. Filling the bean hopper is a simple affair. The lid lifts up and off from the top. Grind level is adjustable depending on your coffee preferences. For example, espresso lovers would want a fine grind. Eight functions are then selectable from two menus by an interface of four buttons. We neede…

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Nespresso Vertuo Next coffee pod machine review
type: item
date: 2021-09-02T10:07:16.000Z
creator: Anya Gilbert
subject: Reviews
description: Behind the one-touch controls of the Nespresso Vertuo Next coffee pod machine lies some sophisticated coffee technology. Here's what we think.
encoded: Nespresso Vertuo Next coffee pod machine summary If a thick crema is a must-have characteristic of your favourite coffee, the Nespresso Vertuo Next is the perfect pod machine choice. Design-wise, it’s a a tad bizarre, with a slim, deep footprint and bulbous frontage for accommodating the domed coffee pods. The machine head lifts and lowers to lock in the pods before it brews your chosen coffee with a one-touch control, spinning them at a high RPM rate to produce a finely whipped foam on top of the cup. The machine itself is made from 54 per cent recycled plastic and arrives in plastic-free packaging, two good eco-credentials that help balance its recyclable but non-compostable pods. Read our full guide to the best coffee machines How easy is the Nespresso Vertuo Next to use? The one-touch control give this machine a deceptive air of simplicity. Two hands are required to get started: one presses down the lid while the other slides the lock across. Each pod has a barcode on its underside that the machine reads to adjust its brew quantity and water temperature. Five coffee sizes are within the machine’s realm, which is impressive versatility for a product type usually limited to single espresso and lungo drinks. The Vertuo will make double espresso, gran lungo, mug and alto drinks, in addition to the usual single espresso. There’s a huge range of pods available. Nespresso wants you to buy into the brand with its machines, so unlike the older style of coffee pod that many third-party roasteries have started making, you'll need to buy the compatible dome pods directly for this machine. Results The packet of pods offers you guidance in millilitres on how much coffee will be brewed, so you can pre-select the right-sized cup to catch it. The drip tray is manually removable and slots satisfyingly into notches of varying heights. Each pod contains the corresponding quantity of loose espresso grinds. Once locked in, the machine punctures the pod in the centre and around the ed…

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Lavazza A Modo Mio SMEG coffee pod machine
type: item
date: 2021-08-25T17:35:50.000Z
creator: Anya Gilbert
subject: Reviews
description: Lavazza and Smeg have collaborated on a sleek machine: read our full review.
encoded: Lavazza A Modo Mio SMEG summary The result of two power-house Italian brands, this coffee pod machine combines classic SMEG design with Lavazza’s technology to brew bold and aromatic coffee. The styling is very much in keeping with SMEG's 1950's aesthetic, with rounded lines and prominent SMEG and Lavazza branding across the front. The outer is made of plastic, as is the removable drip tray, and the overall footprint sits large but comfortably on the countertop. It wouldn’t be SMEG without warranting the investment-price tag. Lavazza alone does some excellent coffee pod machines for a third of the price. However, this machine buys into the quality culture that SMEG appliances excel in, so in that respect, it’s a winner. Read our full guide to the best coffee machines How easy is the Lavazza A Modo Mio SMEG to use? The pod load and release lever lifts vertically. It only adds about 15cm extra in height but could be tricky under very low cupboards. However, it has a lovely soft lift and lower mechanism that makes loading the pod an enjoyable part of the process. The drip tray really is only for espresso cups. Any standard sized cup needs the drip tray removed and that leaves nothing to catch the drips if you remove the cup. This can prove frustrating for lungo drinkers. We noticed dripping for approximately 10 seconds after the espresso was pulled, and again when releasing the handle to allow for pods to drop into the internal bin. We recommend releasing the cap before removing your cup. However, one positive was the machine is incredibly quiet whilst in use. The grinds bin pulls out from above the second cup holder and consists of two compartments that rinse easily. You need to be careful in emptying it as there was water in the base of ours. The tank is an irk. The top is removable but it is lower than the height of the machine, so proves tricky to fill, even by using a jug with a controlled spout. There's also no discernible handle to help lift the tank out. Result…

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Lavazza Jolie coffee pod machine review
type: item
date: 2021-08-02T16:20:02.000Z
creator: Anya Gilbert
subject: Reviews
subject: Coffee
description: Small, sleek and affordable, the Lavazza is a triple threat when it comes to the best coffee pod machines
encoded: Lavazza Jolie coffee pod machine at first glance There are a number of reasons why we’d buy this coffee pod machine. Firstly is the design. Soft curves and the statement handle give it undeniable style. The second is its size. Just 21cm high and 33cm deep, it doesn't hog the kitchen countertop and is suitable for small kitchens. Next is the price; hovering under the £80 mark (and often discounted) it’s one of the most affordable coffee pod machines, helped in part by the fact that it’s been around for a couple of years. You do, however, forfeit some of the bells and whistles of more expensive machines. Espresso and lungo functions are on offer but are controlled by a single button, so watching the brew and stopping it at the desired amount is really important. The drip tray is single-height specifically for espresso cups, but removable for standard-sized mugs, so your favourite coffee mug can be accommodated. And really, these ‘forfeits’ don’t feel like a faff to navigate. Read our full guide to the best coffee machines How easy is the Lavazza Jolie coffee pod machine to use? This machine is only 21cm high so fits under the lowest kitchen cupboard and doesn’t have to be pulled out from beneath cupboards for the 600ml water tank to be refilled. We flushed a full tank through to rinse the machine as per the instruction manual and quick-guide in the box. A warranty sheet is also included. Once plugged in and the power button selected, its light will blink while its warming cycle starts and sits steady once finished. Stand-by happens after nine minutes of no use. Brewing begins once the power button is pressed. Left to its own devices, the Jolie will dispense a lungo quantity before stopping after 90 seconds, so for short coffee lovers, you need to manually stop the machine by pressing the button again. The machine recommends a weekly dispenser clean which involves running a mock espresso without a pod. Warning, the majority of water gets released into the internal pod …

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Grind One coffee pod machine review
type: item
date: 2021-08-02T15:34:59.000Z
creator: Anya Gilbert
subject: Reviews
subject: Coffee
description: This is an investment, but one built to last, with a sleek design and superior performance
encoded: The result of a collaboration between cult coffee brand Grind and Swedish coffee brand Sjöstrand, this 19-bar coffee pod machine, built in stainless steel, has a sleek industrial aesthetic. Read our full guides to the best coffee machines and the best eco-friendly coffee pods The controls are kept simple. An airplane switch powers it on, a manual lever locks in the coffee pods, and a pair of stainless steel buttons offer short and long espresso options. The rails on its top make for a genuinely safe cup warmer. This simple functionality softened by clever design hacks like backlit controls is a real strength. What it does, it does well. Use it with Grind’s house blend compostable coffee pods for best results (<a href="https://go.skimresources.com/?id=71026X1546147&isjs=1&jv=15.1.0-stackpath&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.olivemagazine.com%2Fguides%2Fbest-eco-friendly-coffee-pods%2F&url=https%3A%2F%2Fgrind.co.uk%2Fproducts%2Fnespressopods&xguid=01DSZ877FZWBQTJ00Y7XXFQE19&xs=1&xtz=-60&xuuid=877afa3e7210b9e708afb9373f438c33&xcust=olivemagazine-142648&xjsf=other_click__auxclick%20%5B2%5D" target="_blank" rel="sponsored noopener" data-id="iframe-0-anchor-2">£10 for a pack of 20). Available from Grind (£275) How easy is it to set up the Grind One coffee pod machine? Once this machine is out of its box, you need to lock in the height-adjustable drip tray. A series of vertical notches allow you to move it manually. The power lead plugs in underneath the machine which is cunning because this means the machine can be pushed right back against your kitchen wall. We'd recommend doing this before loading the drip. Its footprint on the countertop is small, so there’s plenty of room left in front for plates and making breakfast. Because the drip tray is raised, you can actually fit plates underneath it but it's also removable so can be taken off. The manual requires you to run a process of de-airing on first use - a way of flushing the system with water without a coffee pod. It's importan…

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illy E.S.E coffee pod machine review
type: item
date: 2021-08-02T09:34:21.000Z
creator: Anya Gilbert
subject: Reviews
subject: Coffee
description: illy has perfected the two-button coffee pod machine and dubbed its latest model an eco and energy-saving product
encoded: illy E.S.E coffee pod machine first impressions We liked how small and compact the packaging for this machine was. Zero set-up is required so once unboxed, you’re good to go. B-Corp certified, illy’s new E.S.E is a slimline coffee pod machine that’s been created with sustainability in mind as well as convenience. This model is one of illy’s energy-saving machines (although there’s not a lot of online information on how) which is facilitated by a quick-warm setting. Available from illy (£115) It takes illy’s new E.S.E pods, which are fully compostable and collectable in green waste collection. They do however come individually air sealed in pouches to maintain the coffee’s freshness. Espresso and lungo coffee functions are on offer. We love the additional fold-down espresso cup tray, perfectly positioned under the coffee outlet for making sure coffee doesn’t splash out. Read our full guide to the best coffee machines How easy is the illy E.S.E coffee pod machine to use? The one-litre water tank needs to be rinsed before use and is a bit tricky to re-fit without looking. To the left of its two-button interface is the power button. We ran the tank through and made three espressos before we got one that didn’t taste bitter. The lower drip tray pulls out completely to reveal the coffee pod bin behind, so emptying both at the same time is simple. Performance The pre-warm setting on this machine is one of the quickest we tested. It’s incredibly efficient at heating the water. Pods slot into a slim hole beneath a flat handle after it’s been lifted, then lock into place when lowered with a click. This requires more force than you’d expect but you get confident with it. A small quantity of water is released for pre-infusion before full extraction but could prove confusing for first-time users, so don’t remove your cup during the pause! The espresso is as you’d hope; dark, full bodied and topped with a hazelnut-coloured crema. There’s a descaling function built-in, although th…

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Breville Barista Max bean-to-cup espresso machine review
type: item
date: 2021-06-24T10:50:15.000Z
creator: Anya Gilbert
subject: Reviews
subject: Coffee
description: With a brushed-metal outer, this sleekly designed bean-to-cup machine brews and froths equally well. Read on for our full review.
encoded: Breville Barista Max at a glance This bean-to-cup coffee machine sits at the more affordable end of the price spectrum but is accompanied by most of the trimmings of a professional espresso machine, including a stainless steel milk jug and a milk steam wand. Available from: Currys (£349) Your own barista skills are required to get the hang of dosing and tamping the portafilter before locking it in place. Then its single espresso, double espresso and manual settings are ready to use. The hands-on experience gives you a gratifying connection to the resulting cup of coffee. Read our full guide to the best bean-to-cup coffee machines What is the Breville Barista Max like to use? Assembly is a simple affair, requiring the attachment of a bean-hopper which contains the fresh whole beans for grinding. The instruction manual does a good job at walking you through this. Pushing the portafilter into the cradle starts the grinding and you control the amount by varying downward pressure. There are 30 grind settings to choose from – an extensive amount for coffee lovers of any experience. Think of each increment of 10 as increasing from fine (great for espresso), to medium, to coarse. Breville recommends level 20 for practicing. One downside of this machine is the inability to adjust its drip stand for shorter espresso cups. We found the espresso was brewed from such a height that the coffee splashed over the edges. Coffee results There's a pause pre-extraction before the coffee begins to be brewed, of around eight seconds, indicating an adequate brew time for the coffee to release its full flavour. The single espresso is richly dark, flavourful and topped with a glossy crema. When frothing milk, the steam only takes around 20 seconds to fully pressurise. The wand also has a good range of movement, although it still proved tricky to manoeuvre the jug around and the process is loud enough to wake you up fully in the morning. Importantly, though, it didn't run out of pressure befo…

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Smarter coffee machine review
type: item
date: 2021-06-23T15:54:48.000Z
creator: Anya Gilbert
subject: Reviews
subject: Coffee
description: For anyone who values convenience when it comes to home-brewed filter coffee, the Smarter coffee machine is a sophisticated option. Read on for our full review.
encoded: Smarter coffee machine at a glance This high-tech bean-to-cup coffee machine upgrades the usual experience: offering a simple solution for having freshly brewed coffee, made using freshly ground beans, ready in the kitchen whenever you want it. The Smarter is smart-home compatible through wi-fi, so it can be connected to other devices like Amazon Alexa and controlled remotely through the Smart 3.0 App. There are classic features too: four features are manually selectable by button, as is the grind coarseness. For moments when you run out of beans, the option to use ground coffee through an easily-accessible chute is available. The filter is reusable which is an extra sustainability credential. Read our full guide to the best bean to cup coffee machines What is the Smarter coffee machine like to use? The machine arrived ready-built. You can choose from white, black and grey changeable front panels of the machine to match your kitchen. Also included in the box is a 1500ml glass measuring carafe, into which the coffee drips. A quick setup guide leaflet is included, but it's sparse on information, mainly because there's little set-up to do. It walks you through connecting to the app, while a second manual leads you through the 'before first use' set-up. The user needs to fill the tank fully to the maximum 12-cup level and run a full cycle on filter option not just once, but three times. This process takes 10 minutes for a full 12-cup jug. Care and cleaning instructions and troubleshooting advice is also included. If controlling the machine manually (as opposed to via the app), bean, four cups and strong are the options available for manual selection by button. Grind coarseness is also manually adjustable by dial. Downloading and connecting to the Smart 3.0 app was a simple process. Once in, you create your account and are required to enable location settings for home. It also needs connectivity to your wi-fi network. It's a bizarre connection routine, requiring you to p…

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De'Longhi La Specialista Maestro bean-to-cup espresso machine review
type: item
date: 2021-06-23T11:42:42.000Z
creator: Anya Gilbert
subject: Reviews
subject: Coffee
description: This modern bean-to-cup machine combines classic style with sophisticated features to produce a hands-on coffee experience.
encoded: De'Longhi La Specialista Maestro manual bean-to-cup espresso maker at a glance De'Longhi is known for adapting the efficiency and flair of its commercial espresso machines into a household format. The Specialista oozes style with its brushed-metal outer and retro pressure dial, combining a classic design with sophisticated automation settings. Read our full guide to the best bean to cup coffee machines What is the De'Longhi La Specialista Maestro like to use? Setting this machine up is a cinch. Its 250g-capacity bean hopper and drip tray are both ready-fitted. After filling the hopper and its water tank, the machine runs you through the set-up steps, during which it rinses its system and components. There's a separate spout for hot water which is practical for tea or hot chocolate lovers. This flushes on first use so do pop a cup below to catch it. On loading, the brew head preheats and rinses the empty filter basket. The controls are a tactile combination of buttons, handles and dials which add to the hands-on experience. Water hardness level, coffee temperature, auto-shut off time and its energy-saving modes are all settings that can be adjusted, so keep hold of the manual. De'Longhi La Specialista Maestro performance Brewing and steaming must be done separately, so once the grinder level is set, it doses to the correct level for the number of cups required. 'Smart tamper' technology referred to in the booklet refers to the tamping lever which you pull to manually compress the coffee grinds into a flat, even layer. We loved the guidance of the milk wand's dial-control, which is adjustable depending on the level of froth desired for the coffee. When set to brew single espresso, there was a pause before the coffee began flowing. The two-cup setting dosed the espresso evenly and produced a rich-tasting shot of coffee. Is the De'Longhi La Specialista Maestro worth your money? This machine is a modern classic. Its construction is robust, every component has a hefty qua…

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Gaggia Magenta Plus bean-to-cup coffee machine review
type: item
date: 2021-06-23T11:00:31.000Z
creator: Anya Gilbert
subject: Reviews
subject: Coffee
description: Read our full review of the Gaggia Magenta Plus, a bean-to-cup coffee machine with plenty of personalisation features for your drinks
encoded: Gaggia Magenta Plus bean-to-cup coffee machine at a glance Established in 1930, Italian brand Gaggia has a legacy for machines that produce richly dark and delicious espresso. Its Magenta Plus model is a modern bean-to-cup machine, recognisable by its statement red accent and branded espresso outlet, which also features a steam wand for manual milk frothing. Buy from Gaggia (£589) and Gaggia UK Direct (£589) The espresso outlet is height adjustable to accommodate different-sized mugs. We also love the pair of drip trays: the top is specifically designed with rubber grippers on both sides of the smaller one, which can support traditional espresso cups at the right height for splash-free brewing and a thick crema. Read our full guide to the best bean to cup coffee machines What is the Gaggia Magenta Plus like to use? In the box is a warranty certificate, operating instructions and safety information. A plastic pouch containing a water hardness test, grease for the brew group and a plastic scoop is also included, though it's not clear what that's for on opening. The power wire is not connected, but you're guided on how this fits. There's a 14-step diagram process for first installation in the instruction manual, but you won’t need it. The touchscreen interface walks you through each step. Inputting the water hardness level is one of the first steps – a test strip is handily provided – along with language selection, grind size adjustments and filling the water and bean tanks. It automatically senses when this has been done. Accessing the water and bean tanks requires another 15cm of height, so the machine needs to be brought out fully from beneath kitchen cupboards for unobstructed clearance when removing the water tank. Gaggia Magenta Plus coffee machine performance The quantity of the coffees are all adjustable per cup, which is an excellent pro for personalisation. We brew an americano and are pleased to find the machine brews the espresso first before adding the wat…

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Little Kasai Konro Grill review
type: item
date: 2021-06-09T09:17:17.000Z
creator: Anya Gilbert
subject: Reviews
subject: Japanese recipes
description: The Little Kasai Konro Grill is an outstanding charcoal barbecue for reliable cooking performance and superior heat retention.
encoded: Little Kasai Konro Grill summary With a design based on the traditional Japanese blueprint of konro grills, this British-made Kasai charcoal barbecue is Sous Vide Tools’ sleek new offering for 2021, built for safely grilling indoors and out. Its brick insulation and four standing feet make it safe for use on any sturdy tabletop, enabling a sociable cooking and eating experience. The grilling space is large enough for two large portions of multiple ingredients, or a side element for four people. We tested it with a whole raw chicken portioned up and laid flat across the grill, finished with charred lemon halves, slices of courgette, aubergine, green beans and our ultimate vegan burgers. The grilling method gives you excellent control over the cooking of meat and fish, and was a joy to use - we used it three times in one week! Available from Sous Vide Tools (£399) How easy was the Kasai grill to set up? The first step is choosing your charcoal. The brand recommends using the grill with Sumi Bincho charcoal, made from ubame oak from Shikoku or Wakayama in Japan and known for its long burn time without imparting fumes that can flavour the food. Its density also means the charcoal is reusable if put out correctly (in a lidded steel pot to starve it of air, or plunged into cold water), which makes it excellent value for money – you just need to make sure the coals are bone dry for the next use. Alternatively, good quality lump charcoal also lights quickly and, for smoky wood flavours, small logs would work a treat. We used a chimney starter to light the binchotan logs and it took 15 minutes for them to turn white-hot with glowing insides. Using heat-protective gloves, we tipped the hot coals from the chimney starter into the grill and spread them evenly across the base with a small pile in the middle, slotting the grill above them. After five minutes, the grill was hot enough to sear the meat. Depending on where you pile the coals, you can achieve direct and indirect heat…

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Flair Signature espresso maker
type: item
date: 2021-06-07T15:14:00.000Z
creator: Anya Gilbert
subject: Reviews
subject: Coffee
description: Read our review of The Flair, an elegant and experiential manual espresso maker
encoded: Flair Signature espresso maker review summary Made of two well-finished moulded metal parts, the Flair is a simple but elegant bit of kit, accompanied by a branded chess-piece style tamper and quality pressure-gauge. It’s not the easiest machine to read or figure out, but once you get the hang of it, you’ll find it simple to use. The build is brilliantly executed and available in a range of colours. Available from: Doppio Coffee (£240) Read our full guide to the best espresso machines What is the Flair Signature espresso maker like to use? The two main components make for incredibly simple use. You load the filter with coffee, add boiling water, put in place and press the lever down to manually add pressure for espresso extraction. You can experiment with results thanks to a pressure gauge, controlled by the lever. Cleaning-wise, the simple two-part construction offers zero hard-to-reach nooks and crannies. Like other manual espresso makers, the Flair requires preheating, but is a nice option for sustainability, not requiring electricity. Its supremely small footprint also makes it usefully portable. olive’s take: should you buy the Flair Signature espresso maker? As the name suggests, flair is an integral part of the design. If you’re looking for a manual espresso maker to boost your kitchen whilst also offering a more sustainable solution to high-wattage espresso makers, this is a great option. Available from: Doppio Coffee (£240) Flair Signature espresso maker specifications Pressure: 6-10 bar Model number: 797822791864 Colour: chrome Item Weight: 3.06 Kg Package Dimensions: 34.3cm x 23.1cm x 10.2cm Material: stainless steel, chrome Related reviews Best coffee machines Best bean-to-cup coffee machines Best ever coffee recipes Best coffee subscriptions Best gifts for coffee lovers Espresso martini recipe Coffee cocktail recipes This review was last updated in May 2021. If you have any questions, suggestions for future reviews or spot anything that has changed in p…

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SMEG ECF01 home espresso machine
type: item
date: 2021-06-07T15:05:47.000Z
creator: Anya Gilbert
subject: Reviews
subject: Coffee
description: Behind its simple exterior lies a sophisticated number of options for tailoring your coffee. Read our review
encoded: SMEG ECF01 espresso machine review summary Iconic for its 1950s design, SMEG has carried the rounded aesthetic from its fridges into this slimline but statement espresso machine. A three-button interface offers start/pause, single cup and double cup options, but the instruction manual helps you unlock a surprisingly extensive selection of extra personalisation features, so don’t throw it away. Although short, the manual is key to solving early niggles, like how to make one coffee immediately after another. It also guides you through simple regular actions to help keep the machine clean. If you’re after a simple, low-maintenance espresso maker, this isn’t the one. But the quality of espresso it delivers is very high, backed by an efficient milk steam wand. Available from: John Lewis (£319) Selfridges (£319.95) AO.com (£319) Read our full guide to the best espresso machines What was the SMEG ECF01 espresso machine like to use? This machine arrives fully assembled, so the time from unpacking to first espresso took about 15 minutes, once all the extra parts had been rinsed and dried. Its 1-litre water tank is easy to remove for filling, simply slotting back into place. Non-slip feet offer resistance on smooth countertops, essential for when you’re securing its portafilter into place. Single, double and ESE-pod compatible filters are offered with the machine. All press into the portafilter snugly so you can tap the old coffee grounds out firmly without having to worry about losing the filter. For adding new grinds in, the coffee scoop has a broad tamper on the other end for compacting the grounds, although it’s a plastic affair which feels a bit cheap considering the price you pay for the machine. Two drip trays allow room for both espresso and standard sized cups. Selecting your desired coffee is simple. The milk steamer is also intuitive to use, offering a useful range of movement that allows you to froth and steam milk to a good head for cappuccinos. Flushing and wipi…

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