DeLonghi La Specialista Maestro Espresso Machine with Grinder Auto Manual Milk Frother Bean-to-Cup Cold Brew Coffee with Cold

We spent a long time debating what type of espresso machine to get. We wanted something that was overall simple to use, but not a complete "push a button to make a latte" type of machine. And of course, decently affordable. We've been using this machine for a few months now, and I have no regrets. It offers many options for customizing the grind to achieve the perfect balance based on the beans you're using. We've tried almost every brew setting, and it consistently produces excellent coffee. It's been easy to use and maintain, and I get to enjoy a coffee shop grade latte every morning. Read more

I’ve been using this machine for about a month now but I wanted to use all the features and give it some time before I wrote a review. I was a barista for several years and this is my fourth? at-home espresso machine in a few years, and I LOVE it. I genuinely didn’t know you could make espresso with bright crema on top at home until I got this machine. The texture of my lattes is smoother and creamier, the quality is better, and it’s so easy to use. I’ll start with the cons because I only have a few: •the steaming wand doesn’t move as much as others I’ve used and if I have a full pitcher of milk I either have to life the machine or spill the milk to remove it once it’s steamed. It also occasionally takes a bit of time to get going.. initially it seemed like it was getting slower over time but it seems more sporadic now. •the auto shutoff is way too quick, IMO. PROS: •The water tank and drip tray are both really large and do not have to be refilled or emptied often •very straightforward and easy to use once you figure out your initial preferences •there are several options for grind level, water heat, etc and once you figure out the best one for your coffee it makes really high quality espresso every time •the double shot is larger than most which I really like, but there’s also the single shot option • it’s SO easy and mess-free to grind and tamp the beans •milk frother can get milk really hot, and really smooth •I love the americano option, it makes things so easy • the cold brew is pretty good considering how quickly it can be made Read more

This will be the second time I've had to call for help to fix it. Investing a large amount to save money buying coffee and I'm not sure it will be saving if I am unable to get the machine replaced. The problems are: You have to tap on the grinder to get the coffee to keep moving down. (It could have gaps and I don't let the motor run without coffee going down to proven burning out the motor). The other problem was that I got stuck and they maintenance the machine. This took like a month to go through the whole process and get it back. Also, the grind amount and poor of the shot has really changed lately, no matter how i adjust it. When I called the manufacturer, they actually said the machine does not prefer dark roast. They recommend you don't use it, even though the book says nothing about that and actually shows you how to use dark roast. What would be helpful is an updated machine and a refund. UPDATE: I have to share that the directions on the pamphlet for dark roast are NOT correct, but after calling and getting to talk to a very helpful support person at De'longhi, I found out some very particular instructions that make the machine work: The grinder NEEDS TO BE SET at 7 or 8, which in the manual is described as COURSE vs. 1 which would be more fine "espresso" grind (this is typical too). The agent said WHILE it's grinding into the portafilter, change the setting (mine was at 5) to 7 or 8. You CAN'T change it while the grinder is not grinding so you will waste some coffee beans during this process. if you do he said it may damage the machine. So the biggest problem is that the other chats I had with agents had no idea and the directions go against this instruction so for a year I was told otherwise. For that I'm only leaving a 1 star so you all can find this and know the way that works. I hardly ever have to tap the grinder now and even at course, it's still espresso grind and it works best at 7 or 8 for dark roast. I still wish the machine was designed not to have beans get stuck at all going down and the instructions could match the agents knowledge. Read more

So amazing and I recommend it 100% the coffee comes out incredible and super creamy!!! This is for people that like to have full control on the machine and more hands on. For example if you would like to make a cappuccino or a latte, you will need to experiment with the frother and figure out how you like your foam. This machine is on the heavier side as it’s all sturdy stainless steel. If you would like something more press and go, I would suggest the de longhi magnifica as its more automatic! Read more