Coffee lovers who are passionate about brewing, whether at home or for a business, know that choosing the right espresso machine is crucial. The good news is, there are plenty of options for businesses of all sizes. Here’s a look at some of the best commercial espresso machines currently on the market, tailored to meet various needs and budgets.
First up is the Nuova Simonelli Musica Pour Over Tank Version Lux Espresso Machine. This top pick is perfect for a small commercial setup, offering reliability and functionality. It’s designed to suit a small cafe or support the coffee needs of a larger dining establishment. It’s built with a single, dual heat exchange boiler, ensuring maximum consistency. While the water reservoir design might raise some concerns, a simple workaround is to gather hot water from the group head, which could potentially extend the machine’s lifespan.
For businesses expecting higher traffic, the Nuova Simonelli Aurelia II is a strong contender. Capable of making 200-300 cups a day, it’s built for high volume with advanced temperature stability controls and a highly energy-efficient design. However, it comes with a hefty price tag and requires ample space.
If you value classic design, the Rancilio Classe 5 S Tank Commercial Espresso Machine should not be overlooked. It’s highly functional and suits a variety of settings, proven by its performance in a 150sqm pizza parlor. The focus here is more on internal components than external aesthetics, making it an efficient but no-frills choice.
For those exploring the potential of serving coffee on a very small scale, the Breville BES 878BSS Barista Pro Espresso Machine is an excellent budget starter. It’s light, compact, and highly affordable, though its underpowered steaming capabilities mean it’s not suitable for high volume demands.
Moving up in size, the La Pavoni BAR-T 2V-R Commercial 2 Group Volumetric Espresso Machine is a reliable option for larger setups. This machine shines in high-demand environments, though it takes up significant space and requires more electricity compared to single-group machines.
Then, there’s the Jura GIGA X7 Professional, engineered for those who need a fully automatic machine without the need for a professional barista. While it’s excellent for medium volume and ensures consistent quality, it doesn’t offer the same control over espresso making as manual options.
For smaller-scale needs, the Jura WE6, another fully automatic option, fits the bill. It’s equipped with 8 pre-programmed espresso-based drinks, making it ideal for small venues. However, it handles a maximum of around 30 drinks per day, which might not meet the demands of a busier coffee shop.
Choosing the best commercial espresso machine requires understanding the specific needs of your business. Factors like expected volume, desired level of control over espresso making, and budget are crucial. Each of these machines has its strengths and drawbacks, but one is likely to stand out as the perfect fit for your setup.
Finding the right commercial espresso machine is a balance of functionality, volume capacity, budget, and aesthetic preferences. Whether you run a high-volume coffee shop or a small cafe, there’s a machine on this list that will meet your needs. Happy brewing!