BEST COMMERCIAL ESPRESSO MACHINES

11 min read APR 02, 2023

Before investing in an espresso machine for your coffee shop, from the size of the machine to its features and working capacity, it is important to understand these details before making a purchase.

Doing so will ensure that you have the right equipment for your business needs and that your investment increases productivity and customer satisfaction. This article will proffer insight into what you must look for when choosing an espresso machine.

Capacity is Paramount


Many potential coffee shop owners may be unsure if a specific espresso machine will operate properly in a commercial environment. The answer to this question varies depending on the type of machine and its intended purpose; however, in most cases, it likely won't be suitable for an industrial setting.

It's important to consider factors such as the size of the space, power requirements, features and cost when researching which type of espresso machine would work best for you.

Focus on the Bottlenecks

When weighing customer traffic, focusing on the number of customers during peak hours rather than a full day is essential. It highlights the importance of analyzing customer activity at specific times to maximize sales and optimize operations. By doing this, businesses can ensure that they are proffering the best possible service and meeting the needs of their customers during peak periods.

Coffee connoisseurs recognize the difference between professional and home espresso machines - more than just the quality of a shot from a Rocket Giotto, but also its limited capacity for only 15 shots an hour in contrast to higher output models that can produce up to 100.

This limitation makes it impractical for large-scale operations like cafes or restaurants. With that said, home espresso machines are still popular amongst those who want to brew their coffee and enjoy a great cup anytime they, please.

Investing in an espresso machine that features two brewing heads is wise for café owners looking to create a bustling atmosphere and employ multiple baristas. Doing so will allow for faster preparation of coffee drinks, greater efficiency, and the ability to serve more customers simultaneously. Ultimately, this will help ensure your cafe succeeds and thrives.

It can be incredibly frustrating for baristas to have long queues of customers waiting to be served. It wastes their time and energy and takes away from providing the best service they can offer. The situation can be even worse if there are slow-moving customers or the barista is unfamiliar with certain drinks.

Capacity of Two Groups

According to an acclaimed specialist in Irish coffee, workflow is more often than not the main impediment when it comes to speed, more so than machines or tools. He believes that efficient workflow management is essential for a successful business, and rightly so; by utilizing correctly implemented processes and procedures, you can achieve streamlined operations, optimizing productivity, ultimately resulting in faster output and enhanced overall performance.

An optimized two-group machine can craft 1,000 beverages within a single eight-hour shift with only two baristas at its aid. That's roughly 125 refreshments per hour or 20 kilograms when measured in bulk - impressive.

He suggested that two baristas should be enough for most companies, except if you experience high customer turnout. Finding space for more than two baristas can still prove difficult, even if your business is quite popular and packed with groups.

Features in a Commercial Espresso Machine

Many people typically concentrate on the flashy features when considering home espresso machines. Though with professional models, those aspects often take a back seat while more critical questions are answered - such as which option you should pick that is:

  • Semiautomatic: You choose when the shot is perfect.
  • Automatic volumetric: Shuts off automatically.
  • Manual lever: By utilizing the lever, you can effectively 'pull' a shot and push water through.

A lever-style espresso machine can be essential in creating amazing coffee beverages. Not only does it provide excellent extraction control, but it also creates visually appealing drinks that are perfect for sharing on social media. With a lever-style machine installed in your cafe or kitchen, you can craft unique and delicious coffees to attract customers and generate buzz.

Pros & Cons


Despite its intensity, you must manually pull the daily lever to complete vital tasks.

Investing in a semi offers you the independence of controlling your haul while decreasing strenuous labor. It's perfect for those hoping to have it all.

If you're concerned about being able to manage your café alone, having a machine that shuts off automatically is an ideal solution. That way, you won't have to worry about managing orders and finances while grinding beans, tamping grounds, and steaming milk for drinks. Investing in this equipment can save you time not to mention the frustration.

Remember to Factor in the Grinder

A quality coffee grinder is a necessary piece of equipment for any successful coffee shop; some even go so far as to say that it is more important than the espresso machine itself.

However you feel about this debate, one thing is certain: your grinder must withstand high-volume use and consistently produce perfectly ground beans for every cup served. Investing in a top-quality grinder with reliable performance will help ensure the best possible results throughout your business's lifetime.
Consider this scenario:

  • Your espresso machine can whip up an impressive 100 beverages per hour.
  • Nevertheless, you can only grind fifty drinks an hour with your device.

If productivity is your goal, then having inefficient or outdated machinery can be a significant obstacle to achieving it. If you don't have the necessary tools or equipment to do the job properly and efficiently, it can slow down progress and halt any forward momentum.

By investing in the latest technology and machinery that perfectly suits your needs, you can ensure maximum productivity so you never have to wait around for inadequate resources again.

Though many grinders boast a sleek and sophisticated design, that may not necessarily guarantee they are equipped to handle larger quantities of coffee beans. For example, the Baratza Sette may be well-suited for an at-home espresso connoisseur or a small cafe serving decaf shots here and there, but it would likely struggle to keep up with the demand of a busy coffee shop.

The Best Commercial Espresso Machines for Every Need

1: LA SPAZIALE MINI VIVALDI S1-II RED


La Spaziale is renowned for its reliable and enduring coffee machines; this model is a great example. Its timeless design might not be visually striking or garner the most social media love, but it certainly has a unique charm that will please coffee lovers everywhere.

This Italian-made machinery provides small businesses the same advantages of a commercial setting at a fraction of the cost. If you own a cafe, restaurant, or bookshop and are looking for something extraordinary to proffer your patrons, look no further than this machine. With it, you will be sure to deliver an unparalleled experience they won't forget.

It'll have them coming back time after time. With its technological features, it's sure to make an impression giving customers an unforgettable experience each time they visit.

If you aim to exceed 20 shots per hour, investing in a more powerful model may be the best option.

Experience the luxury of a 1250-watt heating source and double boiler to abet you heat your machine quickly and efficiently. The non-mini" version offers even more convenience as it is plumbable and has an ample water tank for maximum output. Enjoy the power of a professional-grade device in the comfort of your own home.

2: LA PAVONI BAR 3L-B LEVER


La Pavoni is an iconic Italian coffee company that has been around for decades. Their home espresso machines, such as the Europiccola, are renowned for their reliability and high quality. However, their commercial espresso machines have gained a loyal following among experienced baristas. With superior construction and craftsmanship, these professional-grade models never fail to impress with their performance and durability.

The three-lever model is ideal for any café, as its lever machines have a proven track record of dependability and make superb coffee drinks. It gives users unprecedented control over their extraction process and unlimited potential for crafting their perfect cup of joe.

Moreover, these trifecta levers let baristas adjust each set independently to fine-tune every detail in the brewing process. With this system, anyone can enjoy a delicious brew tailored to their tastes.

The La Pavoni Bar 3L-B is nothing short of a powerhouse regarding strength and stability. Despite its impressive power output that rivals an expert boxer, it's extremely lightweight due to its small footprint, allowing for remarkable ease when transporting or setting up the machine within any environment.
Whether you're looking for an extra kick in the morning or just want to impress your guests with some delicious espresso drinks, this powerful machine will deliver every time.

3: NUOVA SIMONELLI APPIA II


The Appia II is an excellent espresso machine choice if you're running a coffee shop and must serve between 30 to 100 drinks per hour. Its lightweight design makes it easy for baristas to use, ensuring there's no disruption in service regardless of the time of day or demand levels. With this reliable machine, customers will always get their coffee quickly and without hassle.

Nuova Simonelli has been pushing espresso-making boundaries to bring consumers the most exceptional machines available for seventy years. Their latest model stands out from its predecessors as it features cutting-edge technology and superior components that make every cup of coffee a work of art.

This machine crafts perfect crema with each shot and offers users effortless operation for an unbeatable espresso experience. This device is truly a must-have for any true coffee lover.

Appreciated for its ergonomic design and structure, this espresso machine adds a sleek look to any space. Baristas can effortlessly pull shots all day long without suffering from exhaustion or injury thanks to the superior craftsmanship - that being said, take caution when moving it around since it's roughly 160 lbs.

Enjoy a consistently remarkable cup of espresso with Appia II's innovative pre-infusion technology and volumetric function that allow you ultimate command. Each sip is packed with opulent flavor, creating an unparalleled pleasure.

4: JURA IMPRESSA Z9


When people consider commercial spaces, a superb espresso machine is usually the first thing that comes to mind - and for a good reason. These machines can produce an abundance of premium-quality shots daily.
Although it is not common, some individuals still fit this alternate circumstance and deserve to be acknowledged.

Are you a local business owner without the knowledge or time to learn how to make coffee-shop-quality drinks? With all your other responsibilities, mastering barista skills is likely a low priority. Don't fret - they have got you covered.
Revolutionize your daily routine with the remarkable Jura Impressa Z9. It's designed to proffer superior precision and ease of use, simplifying tasks like never before.

From the industry-renowned Swiss brand Jura comes a new groundbreaking espresso machine. It's outfitted with an integrated conical burr grinder and advanced steamer that guarantee an exquisite cup of coffee each time - perfect for professional baristas and home users. This top-tier model will have you savoring every sip.

5: NUOVA SIMONELLI AURELIA II VOLUMETRIC


Nuova Simonelli is a highly respected Italian espresso brand known for its sophisticated machines and ability to produce perfect drinks.

The Nuova Simonelli Aurelia is a favorite espresso machine among baristas at world championships for its top-of-the-line performance. This model sports two brew heads, so you can keep up with even the busiest caffeine rushes. Show your customers you're always ahead by investing in this innovative and dependable espresso machine.

The volumetric model proffers a fast and easy way to brew coffee for busy cafes with multiple activities simultaneously. Rather than having to manually control every moment of the brewing process, this method allows you to save time and energy while still producing quality drinks.

Frequently Asked Questions(FAQs)


Do I need a grinder for my commercial espresso machine?


Most espresso machines have built-in grinders, but check the product description to ensure. You must purchase a grinder separately if your machine doesn't have one.

How long do commercial espresso machines last?


It depends on the model type and how well it is maintained. Commercial-grade models typically last many years with regular maintenance. However, cheap or low-quality models may only last a few years before needing replacement parts or repair work.

Is there a difference between home and commercial espresso machines?


Yes! Commercial espresso machines are designed for business purposes and tend to be larger and of higher quality than home models. Additionally, commercial machines feature more advanced features, such as volumetric or automatic controls. It makes them ideal for busy cafes and restaurants needing to quickly produce quality drinks.

How do I maintain my commercial espresso machine?


Properly maintaining a commercial espresso machine is essential for optimal performance. Cleaning the exterior and interior of the machine regularly and descaling and replacing parts as necessary are all important for maintenance. Additionally, it's recommended to have the machine serviced by an experienced professional every six months.

What is pre-infusion technology?


Pre-infusion technology is an advanced feature in some commercial espresso machines, allowing you to create more flavorful drinks with greater consistency. This process allows water to slowly saturate freshly ground coffee before applying full pressure during extraction. The result is a higher quality beverage every time.

What is the best commercial espresso machine?


That depends on the demands of your business and what type of coffee you're serving. Generally, some of the best commercial espresso machines are La Marzocco Linea Mini, Victoria Arduino Adonis, Nuova Simonelli Appia II Volumetric, Jura Impressa Z9, and Nuova Simonelli Aurelia II Volumetric.

Are commercial espresso machines worth it?


Yes! Commercial espresso machines provide consistent quality cups of coffee with every use. They are built to handle more intense daily use than home models, so they last longer and require less maintenance. Additionally, they can help your business stand out with their stylish look and advanced features.

Check out Lifeboost Coffee Embolden Dark Roast.

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Mudassar

Absolutely love exploring the world of espresso machines! After extensive research, I’ve come across some incredible options for the “BEST COMMERCIAL ESPRESSO MACHINES” that are truly game-changers. The blend of cutting-edge technology and top-notch craftsmanship makes these machines a barista’s dream. If you’re as passionate about perfecting your espresso game as I am, check out the fantastic lineup here.