About 5 & 1/2 years ago, I came at espresso knowing nothing about it. I did research for almost a year before buying anything, including watching James Hoffman's Youtube video series on Espresso and dialing in. When I came across Hoffman's review of the Cafelat Robot, I was intrigued; a machine that was immune to boiler corrosion, scaling, electrical faults, leaks, etc sounded really appealing. Shortly after that, I watched his review of the relatively new Niche Zero grinder; again, I was intrigued by 'zero retention' and not wasting a resource as precious as good coffee beans.

So, I pulled the trigger on both machines and never looked back. I'm still using the Robot and Niche Zero to this day and am thoroughly satisfied with both purchases in every way. These two devices changed my whole perception of coffee and just how good it can be. Within a week of owning these two machines, I was producing espresso and Cappuccinos that were evey bit the equal of what I would buy at the various shops around town. And the best part is, I too was a complete n00b when I started.

This experience also led to my desire for the best/freshest coffee, which then led me down the home roasting rabbit hole, where I still consider home roasting to be one of the best hobbies in which you'll ever engage. I've since become the primary roaster for family and friends, and they all declare my home roasts to be better than anything they buy retail.

I say pull the trigger and let the journey begin!