Saturday, February 28, 2004


how to import an espresso machine

long-time readers may recall this was my birthday week. and i must say mr. right stepped up to the plate: he imported an espresso machine from europe!

this new espresso machine -- my 3rd -- is a very special, rare model. made in china, it's apparently sold only in europe. it has features neither my silvia nor my "carlos" expobar can boast.

a two-tone dove gray and charcoal plastic body, with a 10 oz. water tank. it's a pre-programmed automatic model, with 3 buttons: one for a single espresso, another for a doppio, and one for a lungo. the 4th button controls the steam, which makes a satsifying whooshing noise.

further, it has a great l.e.d. display of a red demitasse while brewing. the on/off switch is the portafilter handle itself: lock it into place, and the machine starts.

while the portafilter isn't brass, and is a tad shallow, the machine has a nice wide drip tray. it also came with two plastic demitasse cups and saucers in colors to match the machine. the cups have those kind of "airplane coffee cup" handles.

and the best part is that's lightweight, portable, and runs on just 2 small batteries. further, it has a really cool backlight that makes the product shine as it drips from portafilter to cup.

i'm calling this new machine the "boy toy." that's right: i'm describing the hilarious english toyline play espresso machine, so much cooler than the usual e-z bake oven!

now if only it actually made coffee. . . .(side note: all you baking hipsters know that the e-z bake toy oven has a passle of twisted adult devoteés, right? who fanatically post recipes -- and here -- on the 'net?)

but seriously, the toyline espresso machine seems to be sold only in england and few websites will ship to the u.s.a. it has to clear customs to boot!

for those interested in giving their wee child a headstart on the world barista championship, you can find it from arbon & watts ltd online store.

posted by fortune | 6:15 PM | top | link to this | email this: | | | 0 comments