OT Coffee Machine Question: Any Starbucks Verismo 580 users?

[#campyuserftw]

As cyclists, we tend to love our coffee, espresso, or latte. :)

Anyone own, use this machine and can offer two cents? Considering it for a Christmas gift, with the goal to achieve a decent espresso and latte:

http://www.starbucksstore.com/verismo-580-brewer-silver/011023256,default,pd.html

Thanks

:beer:

[William]

I discovered Ma William had picked one up when we were at their place for Thanksgiving. I didn't scrutinize it but it made some pretty decent coffee.




William


As cyclists, we tend to love our coffee, espresso, or latte. :)

Anyone own, use this machine and can offer two cents? Considering it for a Christmas gift, with the goal to achieve a decent espresso and latte:

http://www.starbucksstore.com/verismo-580-brewer-silver/011023256,default,pd.html

Thanks

:beer:

[azrider]

We had ours for about 3 weeks before we were both ready to throw it out the window. It wasn't as user friendly as our Keurig, the pods were much more expensive, the espresso/cappuccino/coffee serving sizes were close to a third less than Keurig, and overall the quality was just piss poor. I could go on and talk about how none of our coffee cups fit in the machine, and how we never found a flavor we liked, OR how you had to go to Starbucks to find refill pods (maybe that's changed) but i'd highly recommend the Keurig below.

Rant over. Sorry but we were pissed after we spent that much money on the damn thing.

http://www.diversifiedrefreshments.com/images/KeurigB70_lg.jpg

[stackie]

There is a nice review of the Verismo here.

http://vimeo.com/62425881

Seriously, though, if you want espresso, you should at a minimum spend the $6-700 and get a Rancilio Silvia. That is really the entry level espresso machine that is worth purchasing. You will need a decent grinder, of which, the Baratza Vario is again the entry level. j

For drip coffee, I'd go with a pour over set up that you can control the temperature. Drip coffee makers are notoriously low on temperature and will basically ruin any decent coffee. The two exceptions are Bonavita and Technivorm.

PM me if you have more specific questions.

Jon

[eddief]

http://aerobie.com/products/aeropress.htm

[SlackMan]

http://aerobie.com/products/aeropress.htm

I heard these make great tasting coffee, but that they require WAY more coffee than regular. Is that correct?

[floxy1]

Keurig would not be on my list if looking for a quality cup. Convenience, yes, but one step above coffee machine.

[Louis]

This has all the makings of a good Campy vs Shimano, or clincher vs tubular thread. ;)

[eddief]

3 scoops, which I think is 3 oz, for 2 big mugs of Americano. I am not an expert, but it is the best tasting coffee I have ever made at home. By the way, I have Shimano on all 4 of my bikes...so you need to consider the source.

I heard these make great tasting coffee, but that they require WAY more coffee than regular. Is that correct?

[FastforaSlowGuy]

I've been very happy with my Breville youbrew. Not quite as temp precise as T'vorm but far more user friendly when you are bleary eyed. Very good coffee. Yes pour over is slightly better but who has the time as a daily coffee solution?


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[Steve in SLO]

I heard these make great tasting coffee, but that they require WAY more coffee than regular. Is that correct?

They do require a little more per cup than making coffee with a drip machine, but the taste is great, and at $25-$30 for the Aeropress, you can buy a lot of extra coffee with the money you save on a coffee machine.

[Netdewt]

http://aerobie.com/products/aeropress.htm

This. This. This. This. This. This. I'll never go back to crazy contraptions!

Best coffee I have ever tasted. STRONG and delicious. The way it should be.

[2wheelwill]

Tried them all....aeropress too. For the best strong espresso without spending thousands I went back to what my Cuban parents used:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Moka_pot

Cheap, easy, and did I mention a STRONG shot of espresso!

[csm]

I've thought about a Mona pot for camping and back packing. Anybody tried one for that? I'd use a isobutane stove for heating it.


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[crownjewelwl]

Save yourself the trouble and get yourself a nespresso machine

[thwart]

I've thought about a Mona pot for camping and back packing.


http://www.weedorz.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/24x36-Mona-Lisa-Smoking-Pot-Art-Poster-Print-0.jpg

Well, it depends on your style of camping, I guess...

[professerr]

All pod machines are awful. They are like fondue makers from the 70s -- in ten years everyone will wonder what the heck people were thinking. Until then, I'm stuck nodding politely in agreement at friends' homes when they urge me "isn't this the best coffee ever?"

The Silvia/Vario combo, or a similar quality set up, seems to be the only way to go for espresso, but even then you need to know what you're doing and have a touch of OCD.

So for me it is Aeropress for one or two people, French Press for more. Not the best coffee, but good.

Campy/Shimano/tubular/clincher user here, sometimes all on the same bike. Don't judge me man.

[enr1co]

All pod machines are awful. They are like fondue makers from the 70s -- in ten years everyone will wonder what the heck people were thinking. Until then, I'm stuck nodding politely in agreement at friend's homes when they urge me "isn't this the best coffee ever?"


... and more plastic and aluminum trash ( by those not dilligent with recycling) to the environment from the used one serving pods :butt:

[#campyuserftw]

I just made a pot via my French Press. Saw The Cult last night, late nite indeed. Coffee and 25 chilly miles ahead. Main goal for the machine is espresso and I can't see the Starbucks machine working well for that application.

[malcolm]

... and more plastic and aluminum trash ( by those not dilligent with recycling) to the environment from the used one serving pods :butt:

I used to be a coffee snob. Roasted my own beans and only used a French press. Now I use a Keurig. Not the best I ever tasted by a long shot but acceptable for a quick AM coffee fix. Just don't have the time to roast anymore.

[csm]

http://www.weedorz.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/24x36-Mona-Lisa-Smoking-Pot-Art-Poster-Print-0.jpg

Well, it depends on your style of camping, I guess...

Haha stoopid auto-correct!


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[bcroslin]

Save yourself the trouble and get yourself a nespresso machine

This is what I came in here to say. Nespresso is the gold standard for on-the-fly espresso shots. The machines can be had now for under $200 and there's a large assortment of coffee. The problem with the Starbucks machine and the Kuerig is they both use plastic capsules which creates a crappy tasting coffee. Nespresso uses foil which makes a world of difference.

Here's the rub - Nespresso capsules cost .60 on average. If you drink coffee the way I do it adds up fast. The Starbucks and Keurig coffees add up fast as well. The NYT did a story not too long ago looking at the price of coffee by the capsule (http://www.nytimes.com/2012/02/08/dining/single-serve-coffee-brewers-make-convenience-costly.html?_r=0) and it's shocking when you do the math.

Have you ever tried the pour-over method of brewing coffee? I do pours every morning and it adds maybe 3-4 extra minutes to my coffee routine. It's hands down the best method of brewing coffee.

[Netdewt]

Have you ever tried the pour-over method of brewing coffee? I do pours every morning and it adds maybe 3-4 extra minutes to my coffee routine. It's hands down the best method of brewing coffee.

This is also a great option. Aeropress, Chemex, pour-over, and French press is ok too. And all cheap.

I have tried Nespresso, Keurig, and have a Moka pot. I don't like any of them. They taste burned, stale, or both.

[pjmsj21]

[QUOTE=bcroslin;1463927]This is what I came in here to say. Nespresso is the gold standard for on-the-fly espresso shots. The machines can be had now for under $200 and there's a large assortment of coffee. The problem with the Starbucks machine and the Kuerig is they both use plastic capsules which creates a crappy tasting coffee. Nespresso uses foil which makes a world of difference.

My wife and I are looking for a relatively inexpensive espresso machine to use at a cabin. We usually will have one or two latte's per day so not big consumption. We have a dual boiler Breville at home that we love a lot. Any suggestions?

[Exonerv]

I've been roasting my own for 15 years and have primarily dealt with Tom & Maria of sweetmarias.com

Great resource for all things coffee and I have learned to really trust their objective reviews of the equipment they sell.

http://www.sweetmarias.com/sweetmarias/espresso/espresso-machine.html?source=side

[malcolm]

I've been roasting my own for 15 years and have primarily dealt with Tom & Maria of sweetmarias.com

Great resource for all things coffee and I have learned to really trust their objective reviews of the equipment they sell.

http://www.sweetmarias.com/sweetmarias/espresso/espresso-machine.html?source=side

they are an awesome company. It's where I got most of my green beans and hardware.

[dogdriver]

Have had a Technivorm for 15 years now and have been responsible for 10 or so friends/family buying them. Bought it after a LONG talk about coffee alchemy with the owner of Old City Coffee in Philadelphia. It's his opinion that the Technivorm was then the only drip machine that created the correct and consistent proper temperature for brewing as did a proper pour-over. Have been through a few espresso makers, but my palette is too fussy to appreciate anything short of the monster pressure created by commercial machines. The search continues, but for now I go out for a Cappuccino and do drip at home...

[bcroslin]

Have had a Technivorm for 15 years now

Always wanted a Technivorm but my wife won't allow it on the counter. Best coffee maker made but looks like something you'd see in a laboratory.

[bcroslin]

[QUOTE=bcroslin;1463927]This is what I came in here to say. Nespresso is the gold standard

My wife and I are looking for a relatively inexpensive espresso machine to use at a cabin. We usually will have one or two latte's per day so not big consumption. We have a dual boiler Breville at home that we love a lot. Any suggestions?

My advice is to buy the Essenza (http://www.nespresso-us.com/machines/essenza/). Nespresso is selling them for $99 which $80 less than the one I bought 2 years ago. It's small and simple to use.

[Exonerv]

Love my Technivorm Mocca Master...needs to be hand washed, but it's worth it. The key is to allow the basket to almost fill with water and stir the grounds. Consistently excellent, but it makes it tough to accept having coffee away from home.

I use a pour-over at the office and it runs a close second.

[Netdewt]

Have had a Technivorm for 15 years now

We have one of these at work, and it's definitely the best machine-brewed coffee I've had.

[roydyates]

This is what I came in here to say. Nespresso is the gold standard for on-the-fly espresso shots. The machines can be had now for under $200 and there's a large assortment of coffee. The problem with the Starbucks machine and the Kuerig is they both use plastic capsules which creates a crappy tasting coffee. Nespresso uses foil which makes a world of difference.

Here's the rub - Nespresso capsules cost .60 on average. If you drink coffee the way I do it adds up fast. The Starbucks and Keurig coffees add up fast as well. The NYT did a story not too long ago looking at the price of coffee by the capsule (http://www.nytimes.com/2012/02/08/dining/single-serve-coffee-brewers-make-convenience-costly.html?_r=0) and it's shocking when you do the math.

Have you ever tried the pour-over method of brewing coffee? I do pours every morning and it adds maybe 3-4 extra minutes to my coffee routine. It's hands down the best method of brewing coffee.

We don't drink espresso, but we do buy semi-expensive beans from Mountanos Bros in Oakland. We use a 5lb bag that costs $75 every month, or $2.50 per day. This makes one drip coffee pot, about 5 mugs worth, each morning. in short, we pay about 50 cents per cup, not too different from 60 cents per capsule.

[Exonerv]

Ha...Sweet Marias is in West Oakland. In addition to green beans for roasting, they roast coffee for sale. Check 'em out and see how they compare.
http://www.sweetmarias.com/contact_us.php?source=top

Edit: Just noted you're in Central Jersey....thought you were on the left coast.

[sworcester]

I am on a no caffeine schedule (mainly because of how much I do drink, (4 or so double Americanos)), what about decaf beans? I am on a SWP kick since I don't like the idea of the chemicals associated with the process.
I hear the coffee drinkers talking, but I actually love the taste of espresso and with this quantity, get the caffeine I need to keep the craver headaches away.

[93legendti]

I bought this

http://www.ebay.com/itm/271339831082

at Starbucks 6-7 years ago (on close out at $333). It's been used at least 2x a day since then with zero problems.

Pick your beans, set your grind and decide how much and how strong you want the coffee/espresso. The machine tells you when to descale and when to remove the grounds. It's as easy as any pod machine and it takes any beans I buy.

I can't drink the pod coffee- my in laws have one and I can't stand the flavor.


I also have a Moka pot, which is my favorite type of coffee. The Delonghi is easier, faster and I don't have to worry about gaskets wearing out.

[#campyuserftw]

I am on a no caffeine schedule (mainly because of how much I do drink, (4 or so double Americanos)), what about decaf beans? I am on a SWP kick since I don't like the idea of the chemicals associated with the process.
I hear the coffee drinkers talking, but I actually love the taste of espresso and with this quantity, get the caffeine I need to keep the craver headaches away.

Googly moogly you like coffee! :eek:

Check this out lol, scroll down and read:

http://internationale.teamjva.com/shop/coffee-poster/

It's from the faux Rapha website:

http://internationale.teamjva.com/

Enjoy your cafe. :banana:

[roydyates]

Ha...Sweet Marias is in West Oakland. In addition to green beans for roasting, they roast coffee for sale. Check 'em out and see how they compare.
http://www.sweetmarias.com/contact_us.php?source=top

Edit: Just noted you're in Central Jersey....thought you were on the left coast.

We spent a year in berkeley back in 07/08. We still miss it. Riding in NJ is ok, but it's not east bay, marin, etc. Also, There appears to be no way to get a cheeseboard pizza by mail.

[19wisconsin64]

for ten years i used one of these from Saeco

http://www.amazon.com/Philips-Saeco-Espresso-Machine-Stainless/dp/B00141AZOA/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1386482215&sr=8-3&keywords=saeco+espresso+machine

fully manual, but great coffee. not tooooo expensive. you may be able to get a good deal on a used one on ebay.

...my wife and i made the trek down to the rapha store in nyc today...because they make amazing coffee served in rapha cups, with full race replays on the big screen tv. aaaahhhhh, good coffee and good cycling!

truthfully, you can watch some youtube videos on how to make a good cup...so many small variables..but using good beans, clean water, good technique, and a good machine..... once you master the coffee making skill you will save $4 a cup every time you make your own coffee.

the espresso makers also warm up the cups on the top of the machine too.

[bcroslin]

for ten years i used one of these from Saeco

http://www.amazon.com/Philips-Saeco-Espresso-Machine-Stainless/dp/B00141AZOA/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1386482215&sr=8-3&keywords=saeco+espresso+machine

fully manual, but great coffee. not tooooo expensive. you may be able to get a good deal on a used one on ebay.


I own the Starbucks branded version of the same espresso maker and for the money it makes a pretty damn good cup. It doesn't have the psi of a more expensive machine but it's not bad. I run Coffee Intelligencia black cat espresso through it and it's pretty good if you don't grind it too fine.

Also own an Aeropress and it's not bad especially considering how cheap it is. It's perfect for road trips when you're somewhere that lacks a decent coffee shop. I've actually packed up my Nespresso and taken it with me when I know I'm headed to the sticks for a week or more.

[sworcester]

Googly moogly you like coffee! :eek:

Check this out lol, scroll down and read:

http://internationale.teamjva.com/shop/coffee-poster/

It's from the faux Rapha website:

http://internationale.teamjva.com/

Enjoy your cafe. :banana:

I don't know if I found what you were referring to, but I did find (aside from the love of Helvitica (me too!))

Like organizing illegal aquatic baby fights. Take two toddlers, mix in one (1) each shark costume and octopus costume, add water and 30 rabid gambling addicts, and you’ve got yourself a party, my friend.

Good fun.

[mike p]

French press and a moka java pot supply 95% of my coffee needs. Both make fantastic coffee are cheap and don't really wear out. What else do you need?

Mike

[bostondrunk]

We don't drink espresso, but we do buy semi-expensive beans from Mountanos Bros in Oakland. We use a 5lb bag that costs $75 every month, or $2.50 per day. This makes one drip coffee pot, about 5 mugs worth, each morning. in short, we pay about 50 cents per cup, not too different from 60 cents per capsule.

Why would you spend money on a 5 pound bag to use over a period of a month?? You can get fresh roast beans once a week from a number of great roasters for the same price/pound. If you are keeping beans for a month, they are getting stale.

[Exonerv]

The drunk has a point. Lack of convenient access to a local roaster was the primary reason I started doing it myself.

I usually roast about twice per week, 250gms per batch. Flavors peak after about 24-36 hours and remain quite good for another 2-3 days. Beyond that, it's a losing proposition. Even faster once it's ground.

Ultimately, home roasting is easier for me than making the drive to have someone else do it. Green beans are delivered to my door, and I'm usually listening to music and doing a little bike maintenance during the process. After building my first roaster from a popcorn popper (which still works great btw) I made the leap to buying a roaster. Figured I was always going to be drinking coffee, so why not enjoy the best?

[merlincustom1]

My arsenal is Behmor 1600, Baratza Virtuoso, Technivorm Moccamaster, and a Chemex.

[zap]

edit

Love my Technivorm Mocca Master...needs to be hand washed, but it's worth it. The key is to allow the basket to almost fill with water and stir the grounds. Consistently excellent, but it makes it tough to accept having coffee away from home.



We purchased a Technivorm the other day from Williams & Sonoma and my wife and I are enjoying some great coffee now.

[bcroslin]

My arsenal is Behmor 1600, Baratza Virtuoso, Technivorm Moccamaster, and a Chemex.

Please tell me more about the Behmor 1600.

[jtferraro]

Good conversation gang! I grind with a Baratza Vario and use a Bonavita Thermal or Aerobie Aeropress for regular coffee, Starbucks Barista (Saeco Via Venezia) for espresso. Oh, and I typically buy my beans from local roasters.

[Exonerv]

A detailed review of the Behmor 1600 roaster. http://www.sweetmarias.com/prod.details-behmor.php

[William]

The drunk has a point. Lack of convenient access to a local roaster was the primary reason I started doing it myself.

I usually roast about twice per week, 250gms per batch. Flavors peak after about 24-36 hours and remain quite good for another 2-3 days. Beyond that, it's a losing proposition. Even faster once it's ground.

Ultimately, home roasting is easier for me than making the drive to have someone else do it. Green beans are delivered to my door, and I'm usually listening to music and doing a little bike maintenance during the process. After building my first roaster from a popcorn popper (which still works great btw) I made the leap to buying a roaster. Figured I was always going to be drinking coffee, so why not enjoy the best?

Been doing the same for a few years now. Get my beans from SM's as well. Nothing better than a fresh roast only a few days out of the roaster!






William

[bcroslin]

A detailed review of the Behmor 1600 roaster. http://www.sweetmarias.com/prod.details-behmor.php

From reading the review it looks like a lighter roast is the way to go with the Behmor? Lots of mentions of fire in the review. A little scary.