Benable — create shareable lists of things you recommend!
E.g., products you love, local businesses, travel recs - you can add anything to a Benable list!

Pulling Better Shots: Espresso

Purple Star emoji 14 items
If you're like me and went from a Keurig or regular coffee machine into the world of espresso, it was a bit intimidating researching all of the different machines, grinders, accessories, and tips and tricks to just get started. This is my guide and r...
Sections
3
 
 
 

Machine and Upgrades

This is my exact home espresso setup and all of the things I use to get the most out of my machine. 

 
Ryan Fontaine profile picture
The Breville Bambino (and Bambino Plus) is a great entry level machine that won't break the bank, and the one I went with to start my espresso journey.
Breville Bambino Espresso Machine
 
Ryan Fontaine profile picture
The Baratza Encore ESP is a great electric grinder that will get you the grind consistency you need to pull consistent shots.
Baratza Encore ESP Coffee Grinder
 
Ryan Fontaine profile picture
I know what you're thinking…"I just bought a machine that has a portafilter why do I need another one?" I too cringed at the thought of buying even more equipment at the start, but a bottomless portafilter will really shine a light on your technique ...
Crema Coffee 54mm Bottomless Portafilter

Shot Accessories

These are the accessory tools that have made a big difference in my shot consistency. I have these listed in the order that I use them when making a shot. 

 
Ryan Fontaine profile picture
A funnel is nice to have to keep your grounds contained before tamping. I like this one because of the magnets to keep it in place.
54mm Espresso Dosing Funnel with Magnetic
 
Ryan Fontaine profile picture
A scale is an essential tool, both to weigh your beans and to weigh your shot. This one is small and compact and will fit under your grinder and your portafilter. It has a timer as well for dialing in your shot consistency.
Maestri House Mini Coffee Scale w/ Timer USB-C
 
Ryan Fontaine profile picture
A WDT is essential to ensure you don't get clumps that can cause channeling in your shot. This one is low cost, compact, and easy to use.
WDT Espresso Distribution Tools
 
Ryan Fontaine profile picture
I use this after using my WDT to get a good distribution prior to tamping. This thing is HEAVY for it's size and feel really well made.
MHW-3BOMBER Espresso Distributor 53.35mm
 
Ryan Fontaine profile picture
This spring tamper helps you get a more consistent and even pressure on your grounds. I like that it has the spring and audible feedback when you've hit the right pressure so there's no guessing involved. The black and wood finish is a nice touch as ...
MHW-3BOMBER 53.35mm Espresso Coffee Tamper
 
Ryan Fontaine profile picture
This puck screen helps reduce channeling and gives a more even water flow into your portafilter. It also keeps the grounds from directly contacting your brewing head to keep it cleaner. The screen is easy to clean and this one is 54mm to match with t...
MHW-3BOMBER 54mm Ultra Thin Espresso Puck
 
Ryan Fontaine profile picture
This is just a nice simple tamping mat I use to keep things tidy on the kitchen counter.
Normcore Espresso Tamping Station Mat

Mix-ins, Flavors, Accesories

Here are my favorite additions and things I add and use to spice up my drinks. 

 
Ryan Fontaine profile picture
This Smore's flavor syrup is suar free and has been my go-to flavor. It's not a strong Smore's taste as much as it just adds a nice caramel-like intensity to the coffee. It's also sugar free!
Torani Sugar Free Coffee Syrup, S’Mores Flavoring
placeholder
 
Ryan Fontaine profile picture
I like to add a TBSP of brown sugar to my protein lattes in the morning.
Wholesome Fair Trade Organic Dark Brown Sugar
 
Ryan Fontaine profile picture
A tiiiiny dash of cinnamon sugar on the top of your Latte or Cappuccino is a great way to add a hint of different flavor.
McCormick Cinnamon Sugar
 
Ryan Fontaine profile picture
I really like this frother because it packs a lot of power for how small it is. You can use it to make small batches of whipped cream, whipped coffee, do caramel/chocolate glass decoration. I even use this to whip eggs whites and mix protein shakes.
YUSWKO Black Handheld Milk Frother Wand