Which type of espresso machine best suits the needs of your business? There are distinct advantages to using both traditional and super-automatic models.

Traditional Machines
Traditional espresso machines include one- to four-group automatic, semi-automatic and manual models.

The primary advantage of using a traditional machine is that it allows your customers the opportunity to view the drink preparation process. Typically this type of machine is situated at the front of the house where customers can watch the barista grind coffee, dose, tamp, extract espresso, steam and foam milk and create a beautiful cappuccino or latte. Having a skilled barista operating a traditional machine in front of your customers is an excellent marketing tool that helps your customers gain an appreciation for the intricate steps involved in creating high quality espresso-based drinks and generates impulse purchases by the mere fact that they can see the machine in operation and may be enticed to try the product.

A possible disadvantage of this type of machine is operator error. Because the barista is responsible for all of the steps in the drink preparation process, he or she must be properly trained to produce quality drinks. You do not want an inexperienced barista making mistakes and preparing as well as serving inferior drinks in full view of your customers.

Click here to view the LaCimbali line of traditional espresso machines.



Super-Automatic Machines
Super-automatic machines include espresso and cappuccino models.

The primary advantage of the super-automatic machine is fast and consistent preparation of espresso-based drinks. These machines grind, dose, tamp and extract espresso coffee at a touch of a button. Cappuccino models will also froth or steam milk to create delicious and beautiful cappuccino and latte drinks with the same touch of a button, by using an automatic milk frother. Espresso models allow the barista to froth and steam milk in a steaming pitcher while the perfect espresso is being prepared automatically. LaCimbali’s revolutionary M51 S100 Turbo Steam Models are equipped with a thermocouple and air compressor to not only create the perfect frothed or steamed milk, but to also automatically stop the steaming process when the desired and preprogrammed milk temperature is acquired.

Because drink preparation using a super-automatic is sometimes perceived as not having the theatrical quality associated with the operation of a traditional machine, they often are located at the back of the house out of customer view. However, the latest Cimbali super-automatics are stylish and look good at the front of the house. Another advantage of this machine is that a moderately trained employee can produce a great drink.
Super-Automatics are competitively priced, though usually cost more than a traditional model.

A possible disadvantage of this type of machine is maintaining a proper maintenance schedule. Daily maintenance and cleaning of this machine is essential for smooth operation.

Click here to view the LaCimbali line of super-automatic espresso and cappuccino machines.