Keurig K60/K65 Special Edition Single Serve Coffee Maker

CUSTOMER REVIEW



Just bought this item last week at Sam's club for $129 and it came with a variety of 30 teas/coffees for the Keurig. I cannot tell you how pleased my wife and I are of this convenient machine that delivers the perfect cup of coffee each time at the right temperature. You simply pour in 32 oz of water (water filter included), turn on machine to allow it to warm up, then place in K-cup, select temperature, and push button on front corresponding to the size of cup you wish. Once that cup button is pushed your coffee brews in under one minute. Clean up is so easy-just remove the K-cup and discard. If you prefer your own coffe and don't mind cleaning a reusable filter (ours came with one from Keurig), then simply add coffee to the filter, remove plastic insert well (where usual k-cup sits) and place reusable filter into the Keurig, select your cup size and brew. I would highly recommend this Keurig since you can change cup size, temperature, and change K-cup or use reusable filter.

Breville BES870XL Barista Express Espresso Machine

CUSTOMER REVIEW



I have not written reviews before, but I have been a coffee, capucchino drinkers for years. Although I don't claim to be an expert in any sense of the word, I think that I am knowledgeable about making a good espresso and cappuchino. I read the 4 reviews that were posted on this machine prior to writing my own review, and I felt this machine deserved my review as well. Although this machine is not perfect and does require some trial and error over days/weeks, I think that it does a great job for the price and is well worth the investment!!!!!



I have had my machine for over a month now. I make 3-6 capuchino's a day for my wife and I. Compared to the Starbuck's espresso/capuchino barista machine we bought years ago, this machine is wonderful. We were inspired to buy it when we were in Puerto Rico and had a latte/capuchino at the airport with Latte art. Not only did we enjoy the art work, we realized how poor our old espresso/capuchino machine was.



Appearance



Although appearance and looks aren't everything - lol -, it is important. I personally think that this machine is gorgeous and looks great on my kitchen countertop. I love the stainless steel. I love the way it is laid out. I love the way the tamper is held. I love the way it looks when you turn it on and the lighting that it has. Everything is easy to access. If you need to put in water and its under a counter top, you just pull the machine out so you have room to refill it or turn it sidewise. I have absolutely no complaints about the layout of the machine. I think the design is fabulous.



Burr Grinder



On the good side, I must say that it is fabulous having a grinder on the machine that directly feeds grinds into the container that you make your espresso in. It makes making an excellent espresso so easy. The espresso/coffee also really does taste soooo much better when you are grinding beans immediately before you use them versus having them ground for days or weeks ahead of time. It is also sooo convenient not have a separate grinder, and it is such a nice system to have. I went into a local Starbuck's the other day, and they had a very similiar layout on the machine with the coffee beans in a conical plastic holder above the machine feeding into the grinder just like the Breville machine.



Personally, I cannot comment on the burr grinder and how well it does because I am not that knowledgeable. The grinds seem consistent and well done, and I have no complaints about the burr grinder's grinding.



On the negative side, I currently have the grinder grinding the minimal amount of coffee possible RYI, there is a range of settings on how much it should grind on the front of the machine. I have my setting on the most minimal coffee to grind, and I have the grind setting on a very fine grind. When the grinder is on its automatic function of grinding, it grinds an amount that slightly over flows the container that the coffee goes in and you lose some coffee. You would think when your grinder is set on the minimal amount of coffee grinds and a fine grind on top of that, it would deliver an amount that would not spill over the side and cause wastage of your coffee. I haven't dared to set the grinding amount at anything more than the minimal amount fearing it would just waste more coffee. The actual amount of ground coffee that is wasted is not much whatsoever, its the principal of automatic settings still wasting coffee grounds that bothers me. For your information, you can always control the amount that is being ground by manually starting and stopping the grinder by pushing the basket in and out, but I like to start the grinding, walk away from the machine, and not have to worry about it grinding slightly more than it should. Of course, once you tamp it down, you will probably have to grind a little bit more in order to have it at the right level so although its a minor inconvenience overall its absolutely great to have fresh ground coffee so easy to grind and put into the holder to brew great fresh espresso.



Making espresso shots



I have to admit, even after a month of using this machine, I still have to play with different factors to make great espresso. One of the things that I really love is the pressure gauge that works when you draw each and every shot. The pressure gauge helps you determine whether you have the right pressure each time you brew a shot to create a great shot. Without the pressure gauge, you would have absolutely no idea the pressures or barr being generated by the machine. Now I can look at every shot and know the pressure and whether it hit the right zone to make the perfect shot.



Generating the right pressure may be tricky at times. The pressure apparently depends on several things such as grind fineness,how much grinds you put in the basket, the bean type and other factors. You just have to play with these features to find the best combination for the perfect shot of espresso. I also think that each type of coffee bean that you use, the amount of time since the bean was roasted, and the age of when that coffee bean was roasted also plays a factor in terms of what grind you use and how much you have to pack or tamper the grinds.



Customer support



I have talked with customer support many times as I try to learn how to create a great espresso and great microfoam for capuchinos and latte art, and I must highly commend Breville for having a technical support line staffed with people really willing to help out. It is a major reason why I kept my machine and will keep it. Any company that cares about their products and their customers satisfaction with their products should model themselves after Brevilles customer service department. They are very friendly. They try to be very helpful, and I think generally they are very knowledgeable. Although at times, you can get frustrated with them because they really tell you that there are so many factors involved including the type of bean you are using, when it was roasted, how it was roasted and a myriad host of other factors. At first when I was in the learning stages, I actually went to whole foods grocery store as they will tell you and tried to buy the coffee that they recommend. Unfortunately, after making a trip there, I can tell you that the coffee they recommend apparently is unique to the California market, and they do not sell that type in any of their stores in Florida. The bottom line though is that I think the customer service department really makes a good effort to understand your needs and to get you to use the machine properly to produce the espresso and microfoam that you are after. Although I ended up not believing everything they told me and rightfully so, I think that most of their advice is very appropriate and helpful.



Microfoam



Microfoam is an art. I have been searching to perfect the technique over the last month, but its not necessarily easy. I think it can depend on the machine. I think that it can depend on the milk you use, and I think that it can depend on your technique and a combination of all these factors. Sometimes, I steam the milk (I usually use 2%) and the taste is absolutely devine, and I can't wait for the next cup. Other times, too much of the milk remains as heated milk rather than turn mostly into microfoam so I still feel that I am learning. Overall, when I do it correctly which is about 80% of the time, I am in heaven with my fresh espresso and microfoam, and the other 20% of the time, it is very good.



Ideally, I wanted to be able to do latte art with this machine. I have tried over and over and over to do it, but to be honest, I just can't get the microfoam or something write like they show you on the video's on youtube. I don't know if its the machine (remembering this is only a $599 machine versus the many many thousands of dollar machines at commercial places) or me, but I haven't been able to make my latte art "hearts" or other things well or consistently.



Overall, I really like this machine makes excellent espresso and microfoam with trial and error initially, and it is well worth the price. Use the customer service provided to help you learn about how to use this machine if you need help. I am sure that this Breville machine is not nearly as good as a commercial machine that cost megabuck or maybe even other models that only cost thousands, but for the asking price, I really don't think you can ask for much better, and I am really glad that I bought it. I hope this review helped.



PS The rating for this Breville machine price deserves a 5 star. I gave it a 4 star rating only because it seems that the people buying these machines are very, very particular and want the best even the price is nothing like you would pay for a commercial machine that would give them their ideal coffee.

Epica Automatic Electric Milk Frother and Heater Carafe

CUSTOMER REVIEW



The Epica Milk Frother and Heater carafe has a classic modern design in polished stainless steel with a handle that recalls mid-century coffee pots. It quickly produces a consistent microfoam, either hot or cold, for an authentic cup of cappuccino or a special mug of hot cocoa. To make a single serving of whipped cream, use the cold froth setting and cream instead of milk and add a pinch of sugar and a few drops of vanilla.



The insulated jug lifts easily off the electric base and it has a heavy-duty non-stick interior with fill lines for frothed (125 cc) or heated-only milk (250 cc). The lid is transparent with a silicone gasket that fits tightly but removes easily. The power cord is also heavy-duty and about 27 in. long. The heating mechanism is ETL-certified for safety.



There are two attachments, a whisk for foam and a stirrer for evenly heating milk without producing foam. Press the top soft-touch button that lights up with red heat waves for stirring or frothing hot milk or press the bottom one that lights up with a blue snowflake to froth without heating the milk. The blue LED indicator shows that it is in action: there is a soft whirring and then the LED flashes when it’s ready.



The milk protein provides the structure for the foam. Skim milk makes the finest foam but whole milk has a creamier taste and mouthfeel. I usually buy 2% low-fat milk and it strikes a good balance. It is also possible to use non-dairy milk, but the foam will vary in consistency.



TIPS: To get all the foam out of the carafe while preserving the non-stick finish, either swish a little coffee around the jug or else use a silicone mini-spatula or feeding spoon. When making several batches of heated milk, clean the jug with a soapy sponge or dishrag between uses to avoid building up a film of cooked milk.



Epica provided a sample for testing and impartial review. I like this automatic frother better than manual or electric stick frothers because it heats the milk to the correct temperature, produces an excellent foam, and is so easy and fun to use.

Capresso EC100 Pump Espresso and Cappuccino Machine

CUSTOMER REVIEW



Customer review from the Amazon Vine Program (What's this?) I ordered the Capresso EC100 Pump Espresso and Cappuccino Machine because I'm tired of spending megabucks at the local coffee shops for espresso beverages. Also, I don't always want to leave the house to get one, especially for breakfast. And finally, by making espresso beverages at home I can control the ingredients and know exactly how many calories I am consuming.



This machine enables you to prepare espresso with a medium, strong, or very strong taste, using either ground coffee or pods. You can prepare either one or two espressos at a time. It also enables you to prepare cappuccinos (by frothing the milk) or lattes (by steaming it). Oddly, the recipes in the manual do not mention how to prepare a café mocha. My own method is to squirt some Hershey's sugar-free chocolate syrup into a latte, add two packets of artificial sweetener, and stir vigorously. The manual does include helpful tips on ingredients. For example, the lower fat milk is the more froth it will produce. I'm sure you'll think of your own favorite flavorings to add to beverages--cinnamon, brandy, whipped cream on top, or whatever.



I found the machine fairly easy to use, although it's a bit fiddly. You need to go through several steps just to pre-warm the components and the cups. And there's filling the water container, inserting the filter, steaming the milk, cleaning the machine after use . . . on the other hand, at the local coffee shop I just wait around while someone else does all this stuff.



This machine comes with a limited one-year warranty and an order form for parts when they need replacing, which parts are actually quite reasonably priced. Oh, and a separate copy of the manual entirely in French, should you need it.

Nespresso U D50 Espresso Maker, Pure Black

Product Description

Size: Machine Only U, the ultimate machine in modularity, simplicity and purity. Combining personalization with an ultra-chic aesthetic, U is the perfect machine to create an Espresso in the comfort of your own home. U has been designed to fit modern life and its demands, offering ultra-convenient, yet sophisticated technology. U's first of its kind design allows you to rotate the water tank 180-degree around the machine to suit you and your unique lifestyle and living space, while its cutting edge technology delivers a perfect coffee, time after time. Not only does U memorize the preferred cup size, but the machine's brewing unit will automatically release the capsule when it's done. A pleasure to use and display, U is the machine for those who seek ultimate simplicity, the highest quality coffee and pure design. Nespresso began more than 25 years ago with a simple but revolutionary idea, to create the perfect cup of Espresso coffee with exquisite cream, tantalizing aroma and full bodied taste-just like skilled Baristas. As the worldwide pioneer, Nespresso redefined the way coffee lovers around the world enjoy their espresso coffee through a unique combination of premium quality Grand Cru coffees, stylish coffee machines and exceptional customer service. To obtain the perfect espresso, Nespresso Experts seek out only the finest Grand's Crus green coffees, which promise to offer the most tantalizing aromas. You can, depending on the variety of different recipes, enjoy Nespresso with milk. When combined with creamy milk foam, you will experience a whole new variety of flavors. The Nespresso Club Services. The Nespresso Club is always there for you, online, by telephone or in one of our Boutiques. Order your Nespresso capsules, receive personalized advice and obtain technical support for your machine: whatever you are seeking, the Nespresso Club and its Specialists are with you every step of the way. Benefit from quick and easy ordering whenever, wherever.






CUSTOMER REVIEW



Sometimes, I wake up, and I want coffee, but I don't want to have to do any work, or go anywhere, or interact with other human beings. Nespresso heard my cries and made the Nespresso U.



In Italy, every tabac has a fully stocked bar and a $12,000 espresso machine operated by an old man or young woman who coaxes the black blood of the devil out on demand while fiddling with knobs and pipes. If Italy ever wants to clear its national debt, it can just sell its espresso machines and be in the black within 24 hours. However, in America, knowledgeable baristas are few and far between. They definitely aren't working at Starbucks, and the ones working at Intelligentsia are filled with the kind of disdain for their customers usually reserved for war criminals at The Hague. Therefore, the best option in America is to buy a Nespresso machine.



The U is compact, with an adjustable water tank you can shift to the side to nestle it into a corner more easily. The machine auto-ejects your capsules and holds up to ten spent ones, so don't forget to empty it every few days. The results are consistent, and have a great crema on top. The Nespresso service makes it easy to reorder capsules. All in all, I really couldn't be happier.

Bonavita 1-Liter Variable Temperature Digital Electric Gooseneck Kettle

CUSTOMER REVIEW



I love this kettle. I just got it and have only used it a few times. I'll try to post an update on durability after further use, but it feels sturdy and I expect I will only be happier 6 months from now. I made the best cup of pour over coffee I've had. With the accuracy of temperature and the quality of the goose neck spout, the coffee grinds rose as they are supposed to on the initial pour and the follow on pour was consistent, which is just what pour over needs.



I've been waiting for an electric kettle where I could select any temperature desired (as different coffee beans require different brewing temperatures as do teas), hold that temperature for a reasonable length of time, and have a goose neck spout. The Bonavita is the first solution I've found and it is perfect. The controls are simple, the digital readout is large and clear, and the functionality is better than I expected.



I previously had a Hario goose neck stove top kettle and I am way happier with the Bonavita. Here's why.

1. Holds a Temperature: With the stove top Hario, after boiling, I would have to remove the lid to put a thermometer in as I let it cool to my desired temparature. Often, I'd get distracted and have to reboil and cool the water. What a waste of time and energy. The Bonavita lets me select a temperature and let's me choose to hold that temperature for up to an hour once it is reached. I can set it and when I return, it is at the right temperature no matter how long I'm gone. Also, my probe thermometer fits in the vent holes in the top because they are larger than the ones on the Hario. If I want to verify temperature accuracy of the unit, I can do so easily. Since the BonaVita maintains the temperature, if I need 10 seconds or a couple minutes to get my coffee ready, the temperature is still exactly what it should be when I start my pour, instead of a few degrees too cool with a stove top kettle.

2. Won't boil over at max fill: With the Hario, if I filled to the max level and didn't remove it soon after boiling started, it would boil over. The BonaVita can be filled to the full 1 liter mark and will not boil over.

3. Pours well: I found the Hario challenging to pour slowly when full and challenging to maintain a consistent stream when trying to pour slowly. The BonaVita seems to pour better throughout the range of volumes of liquid inside.

4. Lid secures well: With the Hario, the lid just slips in. This means that you need to use a hand to hold the lid on as you tip the kettle to pour. The BonaVita secures the lid with adjustable tabs so that you can set the tension as you desire it. This is safer and keeps my second hand free.

5. Count up timer: I didn't even know the BonaVita had this feature when I purchased it. After you pick it up, a simple touch of the "+" button starts a timer (mintues & seconds) which will count up to 7 minutes. For the best pour over coffee, you are supposed to time your pours and pauses. Now I don't need a separate kitchen timer out on my counter. The Kettle doubles as my timer. AWESOME!

6. Handle comfort & Safety: The Hario wasn't uncomfortable. There are a number of exposed metal components near the handle which could lead to burns. The BonaVita has one of the most comfortable handles I have ever used. I has a good thickness and curve and is designed so that you can primarily use your thumb and pointer finger which are your strongest fingers. It also has plastic between the grip of the handle and the side of the kettle which should prevent accidental burns.



Overall Features:

+ Boils Quickly

+ Set temperature to any degree is simple: The last setting is retained when turned off (but not unplugged) and displayed when briefly when turned on. Pressing +/- will modify that temperature. Pressing the Set Temperature button will cycle through the 6 factory presets. I do not believe you can customize these presets, though even if they are not the exact temperature needed, they can get you close so that you only need to hit + or - a few times.

+ Recall stored temperature settings for various beverages is simple, though you might want to keep a notepad around with what beverage is brewed at what temperature as it just displays the temperatures

+ Switching between Fahrenheit and Celsius is simple. Press one button.

+ Holding temperature for an hour is simple (push one button) and can be re-selected after a pour for the remaining water in the kettle.

+ Temperature Display: Clear and continues to display even after the unit stops heating water (while cooling down or holding temp).

+ Lights: One light lets you know whether the unit is on (heating) since the temperature display remains on for a time (don't know how long yet. Instructions claim 1 hour if not removed from base after temperature is reached, and 7 minutes if unit is picked up and returned to base). One Light lets you know that the "hold" setting is on or off

+ Count up timer is simple - press one button when the kettle is off the base and the timer starts. It stops when you replace the kettle and resets to zero to be started again when picked up again.

+ Looks Great

+ Pours well



Resources:

Manual - [...]

Thermos Nissan 16-Ounce Stainless-Steel Backpack Bottle, Silver

CUSTOMER REVIEW



This is a first, so I'm glad to be reviewing this product which makes it easy. I have tested (and yes, bought-just ask my wife) well over a dozen various insulated containers for use in the car. No I'm not one of those people who walk around constantly drinking (or hydrating). I use it almost exclusively in my car. It's simple, I want the liquid to stay hot, I want to be able to operate it with one hand, and I don't want it to spill or leak. This is the only product that does that and it does it well. I have given it as a gift to at least a half dozen people and since they are relatives there's no more critical an audience. They agree. Enough said.