View entire thread: Where to buy custom coffee cups?
Posted by gattim on 2007-02-08 16:06:32 Post Subject: Where to buy custom coffee cups?
Hi I would like to put my logo and my colors on my coffee cups. Does anyone know of a company that will do this??
Thanks
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Posted by gattim on 2007-02-08 16:06:32 Post Subject: Where to buy custom coffee cups?
Hi I would like to put my logo and my colors on my coffee cups. Does anyone know of a company that will do this??
Thanks
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View entire thread: On your Coffee Table?
Posted by CoffeeLover on 2003-10-21 10:13:12 Post Subject: On your Coffee Table?
What is on your coffee table, a book, coasters, leftover coffee cups. What do you put on your coffee table, what do you suggest for coffee table books?
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Posted by CoffeeLover on 2003-10-21 10:13:12 Post Subject: On your Coffee Table?
What is on your coffee table, a book, coasters, leftover coffee cups. What do you put on your coffee table, what do you suggest for coffee table books?
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View entire thread: For Sale Tully's Coffee Cups & Coffee Cup Sleeves ~ Huge
Posted by meg10052 on 2004-10-22 11:20:27 Post Subject: For Sale Tully's Coffee Cups & Coffee Cup Sleeves ~ Huge
When buying all of my supplies for a new coffee shop I was given a number of cases of to-go paper Tully's Coffee cups with logo and cup sleeves. Since I won't be selling Tully's Coffee I'm looking for someone who would be interested in taking them off my hands. If you'd like more info on this please email. I have pics.
Thanks,
Little Barista Meg
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Posted by meg10052 on 2004-10-22 11:20:27 Post Subject: For Sale Tully's Coffee Cups & Coffee Cup Sleeves ~ Huge
When buying all of my supplies for a new coffee shop I was given a number of cases of to-go paper Tully's Coffee cups with logo and cup sleeves. Since I won't be selling Tully's Coffee I'm looking for someone who would be interested in taking them off my hands. If you'd like more info on this please email. I have pics.
Thanks,
Little Barista Meg
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View entire thread: Selling 3 new coffee machines.
Posted by aaron_nimocks on 2005-12-19 10:58:29 Post Subject: Selling 3 new coffee machines.
If anyone is interested in buying 3 brand new gourmet coffee machines please contact me at
aaron_nimocks@yahoo.com
(757)676-2433
Some pictures can be foundhere. Contact me for more information, looking to sell all 3 but will do only 1 if need be. I invested $12,000. Looking to resell for $10,000 for only a $2000 lose. Selling because I am in the Navy and going on deployment (no time to deal with this business venture).
This also comes with posters, coffee, cups, ect. Everything you need to get started.
Thanks
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Posted by aaron_nimocks on 2005-12-19 10:58:29 Post Subject: Selling 3 new coffee machines.
If anyone is interested in buying 3 brand new gourmet coffee machines please contact me at
aaron_nimocks@yahoo.com
(757)676-2433
Some pictures can be foundhere. Contact me for more information, looking to sell all 3 but will do only 1 if need be. I invested $12,000. Looking to resell for $10,000 for only a $2000 lose. Selling because I am in the Navy and going on deployment (no time to deal with this business venture).
This also comes with posters, coffee, cups, ect. Everything you need to get started.
Thanks
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View entire thread: coffee business in Romania
Posted by gilcafe on 2006-06-13 06:43:53 Post Subject: coffee business in Romania
I am selling the Coffee business that I have in Romania. For the interested investors here is the description:
1. 950 espresso machines setted up in the north-eastern region of Romania (about 1/3 of Romania teritory)
2. great clients portofolio
3. 14 car fleet for coffee distribution, service and espresso machine supplying
4. Traded Mark - GIL CAFE
5. trained employees for the espresso machines service
6. customized products for the espresso machines: sugar, coffee, cups and glasses for vending machines.
For any other information about this business please contact me at info@kafea.ro or info@gilcafe.ro
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Posted by gilcafe on 2006-06-13 06:43:53 Post Subject: coffee business in Romania
I am selling the Coffee business that I have in Romania. For the interested investors here is the description:
1. 950 espresso machines setted up in the north-eastern region of Romania (about 1/3 of Romania teritory)
2. great clients portofolio
3. 14 car fleet for coffee distribution, service and espresso machine supplying
4. Traded Mark - GIL CAFE
5. trained employees for the espresso machines service
6. customized products for the espresso machines: sugar, coffee, cups and glasses for vending machines.
For any other information about this business please contact me at info@kafea.ro or info@gilcafe.ro
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View entire thread: Arizona Highways
Posted by DML on 2007-01-10 20:41:46 Post Subject: Arizona Highways
There is an article in this months ARIZONA HIGHWAYS (Feb. 2007 Page 42) about camp coffee. Actually, it was about the search for good camp coffee.
I had to laugh when the author wrote about an old-timer who drank his coffee out of an enamaled bowl that he never washed.
It reminded me of some of the coffee cups I saw on desks in some of the offices that I visited over the years. Yuck!
He also wrote about a Navajo couple who just kept adding grounds to the pot and didn't empty it until it was 2/3 full.
Anyway, if you can locate a copy of AZ HIGHWAYS, it's worth reading.
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Posted by DML on 2007-01-10 20:41:46 Post Subject: Arizona Highways
There is an article in this months ARIZONA HIGHWAYS (Feb. 2007 Page 42) about camp coffee. Actually, it was about the search for good camp coffee.
I had to laugh when the author wrote about an old-timer who drank his coffee out of an enamaled bowl that he never washed.
It reminded me of some of the coffee cups I saw on desks in some of the offices that I visited over the years. Yuck! He also wrote about a Navajo couple who just kept adding grounds to the pot and didn't empty it until it was 2/3 full.
Anyway, if you can locate a copy of AZ HIGHWAYS, it's worth reading.
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View entire thread: New Holiday Design Launched This Week
Posted by QwikStock.com on 2006-10-09 07:22:02 Post Subject: New Holiday Design Launched This Week
Enchanted Snowman Roll Into Specialty Coffee
Cups & Coffee Sleeves go on sale October 8th
Just in time for the upcoming winter and Holidays, QwikStock.com introduces “Enchanted Snowman” a whimsical line of disposable cups, and paper coffee insulating sleeves. These limited edition items went on sale beginning October 8th and will only be available as long as supplies last. Perfect for Holiday beverage sales, this design also works throughout the winter months.
The Enchanted Snowman design is offered on Foam cups in 8, 12, 16 & 20 oz sizes, while the clear plastic cups can be purchased in 12, 16 & 20 oz sizes. Matching lids in various styles are available for both.
Enchanted Snowman is also available in a paper insulating sleeve, which when matched with a plain white paper hot cup and black dome lid (also available from QwikStock.com) makes a terrific looking, cost effective, holiday coffee package.
Enchanted Snowman designed products are available exclusively at QwikStock.com. QwikStock.com offers these and many other products with small minimums (as low as 1 case) and fast, free delivery. Customers wishing to place an order should visit www.QwikStock.com or call (800) 965-0626 while quantities last.
###
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Posted by QwikStock.com on 2006-10-09 07:22:02 Post Subject: New Holiday Design Launched This Week
Enchanted Snowman Roll Into Specialty Coffee
Cups & Coffee Sleeves go on sale October 8th
Just in time for the upcoming winter and Holidays, QwikStock.com introduces “Enchanted Snowman” a whimsical line of disposable cups, and paper coffee insulating sleeves. These limited edition items went on sale beginning October 8th and will only be available as long as supplies last. Perfect for Holiday beverage sales, this design also works throughout the winter months.
The Enchanted Snowman design is offered on Foam cups in 8, 12, 16 & 20 oz sizes, while the clear plastic cups can be purchased in 12, 16 & 20 oz sizes. Matching lids in various styles are available for both.
Enchanted Snowman is also available in a paper insulating sleeve, which when matched with a plain white paper hot cup and black dome lid (also available from QwikStock.com) makes a terrific looking, cost effective, holiday coffee package.
Enchanted Snowman designed products are available exclusively at QwikStock.com. QwikStock.com offers these and many other products with small minimums (as low as 1 case) and fast, free delivery. Customers wishing to place an order should visit www.QwikStock.com or call (800) 965-0626 while quantities last.
###
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View entire thread: Coffee Festival China 2009
Posted by intercoffee on 2008-09-18 20:14:55 Post Subject: Coffee Festival China 2009
Coffee Festival China 2009
Organizer: Canton Universal Fair Group Ltd
All-China Bakery Association
Co-organizers: All-China Federation of Industry & Commerce
Setting up: May 18-20, 2009 (08:30 a.m. - 17:00 p.m.)
Exhibition Session: May 21-23, 2009 (09:00 a.m. - 16:30 p.m.)
Dismantling: After 4 pm, on May 23, 2009
Venue: Guangzhou International Convention and Exhibition Centre (GICEC)
Invite companies from all over the world to promote trade
During the Coffee Festival China 2009, exhibitors can not only set up their best images by showing their products, but also find out their customers in the exposition. Food & beverage store owners, roasters & packagers, department & grocery store buyers, consultants, chain store buyers, Industry executives & buyer, distributors and office coffee buyer etc will be invited to this show. It is estimated that more than 73,000 visitors will participate in the show.
Exhibit Products
Coffee materials and related products: coffee beans, coffee powder, coffee mates, instant coffee, solidified milk, milk essence and syrups
Coffee ware: coffee cups, saucers, filtration paper, coffee pots, coffee tables, spoons, coffee mixers and other coffee related ware
Coffee equipment: various coffee machines and ovens
Coffee related products and ware: Refrigerators, ice cube machines, snowflake machines, ice cream machines, deep freezes and other western food ware.
Option of Participation
Option Shell Booth Price(EUR)
1 Standard Booth 9sq.m. (3m × 3m) 2,520.00
2 Raw Space 1sq.m. (1m × 1m) 250.00/Sq.m,18sq.m at least and overhead expenses will be plus(28RMB/ m2 )
The booth at the corner will be 300 plus per corner
Please contact:
Michael Liu
(Senior Project Representative)
Canton Universal Fair Group Ltd.
Tel: 86-20-34072597/98/99
Fax: 86-20-34072596
E-mail: coffee.faircanton@gmail.com
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Posted by intercoffee on 2008-09-18 20:14:55 Post Subject: Coffee Festival China 2009
Coffee Festival China 2009
Organizer: Canton Universal Fair Group Ltd
All-China Bakery Association
Co-organizers: All-China Federation of Industry & Commerce
Setting up: May 18-20, 2009 (08:30 a.m. - 17:00 p.m.)
Exhibition Session: May 21-23, 2009 (09:00 a.m. - 16:30 p.m.)
Dismantling: After 4 pm, on May 23, 2009
Venue: Guangzhou International Convention and Exhibition Centre (GICEC)
Invite companies from all over the world to promote trade
During the Coffee Festival China 2009, exhibitors can not only set up their best images by showing their products, but also find out their customers in the exposition. Food & beverage store owners, roasters & packagers, department & grocery store buyers, consultants, chain store buyers, Industry executives & buyer, distributors and office coffee buyer etc will be invited to this show. It is estimated that more than 73,000 visitors will participate in the show.
Exhibit Products
Coffee materials and related products: coffee beans, coffee powder, coffee mates, instant coffee, solidified milk, milk essence and syrups
Coffee ware: coffee cups, saucers, filtration paper, coffee pots, coffee tables, spoons, coffee mixers and other coffee related ware
Coffee equipment: various coffee machines and ovens
Coffee related products and ware: Refrigerators, ice cube machines, snowflake machines, ice cream machines, deep freezes and other western food ware.
Option of Participation
Option Shell Booth Price(EUR)
1 Standard Booth 9sq.m. (3m × 3m) 2,520.00
2 Raw Space 1sq.m. (1m × 1m) 250.00/Sq.m,18sq.m at least and overhead expenses will be plus(28RMB/ m2 )
The booth at the corner will be 300 plus per corner
Please contact:
Michael Liu
(Senior Project Representative)
Canton Universal Fair Group Ltd.
Tel: 86-20-34072597/98/99
Fax: 86-20-34072596
E-mail: coffee.faircanton@gmail.com
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View entire thread: Coffee Festival China 2009
Posted by intercoffee on 2008-09-29 01:36:40 Post Subject: Coffee Festival China 2009
Coffee Festival China 2009
Organizer: Canton Universal Fair Group Ltd
All-China Bakery Association
Co-organizers: All-China Federation of Industry & Commerce
Setting up: May 18-20, 2009 (08:30 a.m. - 17:00 p.m.)
Exhibition Session: May 21-23, 2009 (09:00 a.m. - 16:30 p.m.)
Dismantling: After 4 pm, on May 23, 2009
Venue: Guangzhou International Convention and Exhibition Centre (GICEC)
Invite companies from all over the world to promote trade
During the Coffee Festival China 2009, exhibitors can not only set up their best images by showing their products, but also find out their customers in the exposition. Food & beverage store owners, roasters & packagers, department & grocery store buyers, consultants, chain store buyers, Industry executives & buyer, distributors and office coffee buyer etc will be invited to this show. It is estimated that more than 73,000 visitors will participate in the show.
Exhibit Products
Coffee materials and related products: coffee beans, coffee powder, coffee mates, instant coffee, solidified milk, milk essence and syrups
Coffee ware: coffee cups, saucers, filtration paper, coffee pots, coffee tables, spoons, coffee mixers and other coffee related ware
Coffee equipment: various coffee machines and ovens
Coffee related products and ware: Refrigerators, ice cube machines, snowflake machines, ice cream machines, deep freezes and other western food ware.
Option of Participation
Option Shell Booth Price(EUR)
1 Standard Booth 9sq.m. (3m × 3m) 2,520.00
2 Raw Space 1sq.m. (1m × 1m) 250.00/Sq.m,18sq.m at least and overhead expenses will be plus(28RMB/ m2 )
The booth at the corner will be 300 plus per corner
Please contact:
Michael Liu
(Senior Project Representative)
Canton Universal Fair Group Ltd.
Tel: 86-20-34072597/98/99
Fax: 86-20-34072596
E-mail: coffee.faircanton@gmail.com
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Posted by intercoffee on 2008-09-29 01:36:40 Post Subject: Coffee Festival China 2009
Coffee Festival China 2009
Organizer: Canton Universal Fair Group Ltd
All-China Bakery Association
Co-organizers: All-China Federation of Industry & Commerce
Setting up: May 18-20, 2009 (08:30 a.m. - 17:00 p.m.)
Exhibition Session: May 21-23, 2009 (09:00 a.m. - 16:30 p.m.)
Dismantling: After 4 pm, on May 23, 2009
Venue: Guangzhou International Convention and Exhibition Centre (GICEC)
Invite companies from all over the world to promote trade
During the Coffee Festival China 2009, exhibitors can not only set up their best images by showing their products, but also find out their customers in the exposition. Food & beverage store owners, roasters & packagers, department & grocery store buyers, consultants, chain store buyers, Industry executives & buyer, distributors and office coffee buyer etc will be invited to this show. It is estimated that more than 73,000 visitors will participate in the show.
Exhibit Products
Coffee materials and related products: coffee beans, coffee powder, coffee mates, instant coffee, solidified milk, milk essence and syrups
Coffee ware: coffee cups, saucers, filtration paper, coffee pots, coffee tables, spoons, coffee mixers and other coffee related ware
Coffee equipment: various coffee machines and ovens
Coffee related products and ware: Refrigerators, ice cube machines, snowflake machines, ice cream machines, deep freezes and other western food ware.
Option of Participation
Option Shell Booth Price(EUR)
1 Standard Booth 9sq.m. (3m × 3m) 2,520.00
2 Raw Space 1sq.m. (1m × 1m) 250.00/Sq.m,18sq.m at least and overhead expenses will be plus(28RMB/ m2 )
The booth at the corner will be 300 plus per corner
Please contact:
Michael Liu
(Senior Project Representative)
Canton Universal Fair Group Ltd.
Tel: 86-20-34072597/98/99
Fax: 86-20-34072596
E-mail: coffee.faircanton@gmail.com
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View entire thread: Take out coffee cups?
Posted by pinheadmann on 2008-08-05 07:48:31 Post Subject: Take out coffee cups?
Hi Everyone.....I am having a problem with the Ecotainer take-out coffee cups. They are reasonbly priced and are compostable, which is good for my customer base, but they LEAK!!!!
I have had several complaints from customers, and experienced it myself, so I am looking to change. Does anyone have any recommendations for coffee cup suppliers that are not foam?
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Posted by pinheadmann on 2008-08-05 07:48:31 Post Subject: Take out coffee cups?
Hi Everyone.....I am having a problem with the Ecotainer take-out coffee cups. They are reasonbly priced and are compostable, which is good for my customer base, but they LEAK!!!!
I have had several complaints from customers, and experienced it myself, so I am looking to change. Does anyone have any recommendations for coffee cup suppliers that are not foam?
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View entire thread: How to find cups and saucers for my cafe?
Posted by Carmichael on 2005-04-14 13:38:44 Post Subject: How to find cups and saucers for my cafe?
I own a cafe in Baltimore and I am having a difficult time finding any decent coffee cups and saucers. I need 12 and 20 oz. cups with saucers specifically, and I prefer not to use white. Anybody have any good ideas?
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Posted by Carmichael on 2005-04-14 13:38:44 Post Subject: How to find cups and saucers for my cafe?
I own a cafe in Baltimore and I am having a difficult time finding any decent coffee cups and saucers. I need 12 and 20 oz. cups with saucers specifically, and I prefer not to use white. Anybody have any good ideas?
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View entire thread: How to find cups and saucers for my cafe?
Posted by Cappy Ccino on 2005-04-22 12:43:26 Post Subject:
Can you give me more specifics about the coffee cups you have in mind. Do you have an idea of what you would like to spend or how many you need? Would you like them imprinted? We'd be happy to do the research for you. Our website shows a number of mugs for the coffee industry, but we have access to 1,000's more. Just click on Mugs at http://www.javatees.com for a sampling of styles. We attended the SCAA show in Seattle this week, and found a number of sources for cups and mugs. We'd love to help out.
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Posted by Cappy Ccino on 2005-04-22 12:43:26 Post Subject:
Can you give me more specifics about the coffee cups you have in mind. Do you have an idea of what you would like to spend or how many you need? Would you like them imprinted? We'd be happy to do the research for you. Our website shows a number of mugs for the coffee industry, but we have access to 1,000's more. Just click on Mugs at http://www.javatees.com for a sampling of styles. We attended the SCAA show in Seattle this week, and found a number of sources for cups and mugs. We'd love to help out.
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View entire thread: Disposable Coffee Cup
Posted by Muddycup on 2006-02-02 16:26:17 Post Subject:
hot coffee cups are always an issue, there are several "hot touch" cups out there which get mixed reviews due to cost and styrofoam or plastic feel. The rest of us us the famous sleeves.
Maybe there is a design where the "sleeves are built into the cup?
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Posted by Muddycup on 2006-02-02 16:26:17 Post Subject:
hot coffee cups are always an issue, there are several "hot touch" cups out there which get mixed reviews due to cost and styrofoam or plastic feel. The rest of us us the famous sleeves.
Maybe there is a design where the "sleeves are built into the cup?
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View entire thread: French Press Size
Posted by itpreview on 2008-11-14 02:51:12 Post Subject:
The AeroPress is an entirely new way to make coffee, American style or Espresso style for use in lattes, cappucinos and other espresso based drinks. AeroPress brews simply delicious coffee, 1-4 cups per pressing. Ideal water temperature and faster brewing yields rich flavor with lower acidity and without bitterness. Other brewing processes use near boiling water and long exposure to coffee grounds. Quickly brew a variety of coffee drinks including an Americano or an espresso-style shot for use in lattes or cappuccinos. Its total-immersion system permits extraction at a moderate temperature and a short brew time. Water and grounds are mixed together for 10 seconds, then gentle air pressure pushes the mix through a micro-filter in just 20 seconds, which avoids the bitterness of long processes such as drip brewing. The air pressure also gently squeezes the last goodness from the grounds, further enriching the flavor. The total brewing time of only 30 seconds results in an exceptionally smooth brew.
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Posted by itpreview on 2008-11-14 02:51:12 Post Subject:
The AeroPress is an entirely new way to make coffee, American style or Espresso style for use in lattes, cappucinos and other espresso based drinks. AeroPress brews simply delicious coffee, 1-4 cups per pressing. Ideal water temperature and faster brewing yields rich flavor with lower acidity and without bitterness. Other brewing processes use near boiling water and long exposure to coffee grounds. Quickly brew a variety of coffee drinks including an Americano or an espresso-style shot for use in lattes or cappuccinos. Its total-immersion system permits extraction at a moderate temperature and a short brew time. Water and grounds are mixed together for 10 seconds, then gentle air pressure pushes the mix through a micro-filter in just 20 seconds, which avoids the bitterness of long processes such as drip brewing. The air pressure also gently squeezes the last goodness from the grounds, further enriching the flavor. The total brewing time of only 30 seconds results in an exceptionally smooth brew.
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View entire thread: Coffee and espresso cups
Posted by conpanna on 2006-06-13 20:16:27 Post Subject: Coffee and espresso cups
Starting new coffee house in Texas - where can i find coffee cups, espresso cups and latte glasses? My supplier keeps showing me catalogs of regular restaurant drink ware. I've only had 3 hours sleep since in 48 hours - a little stress starting new coffee house.
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Posted by conpanna on 2006-06-13 20:16:27 Post Subject: Coffee and espresso cups
Starting new coffee house in Texas - where can i find coffee cups, espresso cups and latte glasses? My supplier keeps showing me catalogs of regular restaurant drink ware. I've only had 3 hours sleep since in 48 hours - a little stress starting new coffee house.
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View entire thread: Using Bolder Colors
Posted by omegapd on 2008-10-02 14:53:33 Post Subject:
That is the brightest yellow I think I've ever seen.
All those coffee cups part of your collection? I recognized one of them. Pretty neat.
EW
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Posted by omegapd on 2008-10-02 14:53:33 Post Subject:
That is the brightest yellow I think I've ever seen.
All those coffee cups part of your collection? I recognized one of them. Pretty neat.
EW
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View entire thread: Keurig Single Cup Brewing System B-100 Info
Posted by loujill on 2004-10-25 15:26:57 Post Subject: Keurig Single Cup Brewing System B-100 Info
Hello,
I am consisering getting a Keurig Single Cup Brewing System B-100 for my husband for Christmas (home use).
I have a question, does this machine only take the pre-filled single use coffee cups or can you use regular tea bags or coffee?
Does anyone else use this machine for home use? Is it worth the money for the machine and the coffees?
Thanks for your advise!
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Posted by loujill on 2004-10-25 15:26:57 Post Subject: Keurig Single Cup Brewing System B-100 Info
Hello,
I am consisering getting a Keurig Single Cup Brewing System B-100 for my husband for Christmas (home use).
I have a question, does this machine only take the pre-filled single use coffee cups or can you use regular tea bags or coffee?
Does anyone else use this machine for home use? Is it worth the money for the machine and the coffees?
Thanks for your advise!
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View entire thread: Using Bolder Colors
Posted by caffe biscotto on 2008-10-03 15:34:40 Post Subject:
That is the brightest yellow I think I've ever seen.
All those coffee cups part of your collection? I recognized one of them. Pretty neat.
EW
Maybe I should have said shocking colors...
Yes, those are some of my mugs. As mentioned in my pm, the glass mugs don't keep the coffee hot very long.
Biscotto, would this be your yellow?
http://z.about.com/d/desktoppub/1/0/2/3/pms109.gif
Why yes, it is rather bold. Pass the shades my dear.
Mako
I wanted colors that would permanently burn my logo into your computer monitor, ha ha.
Anyway, I toned it down a bit.
Thanks guys for being so brutally honest.
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Posted by caffe biscotto on 2008-10-03 15:34:40 Post Subject:
That is the brightest yellow I think I've ever seen.
All those coffee cups part of your collection? I recognized one of them. Pretty neat.
EW
Maybe I should have said shocking colors...
Yes, those are some of my mugs. As mentioned in my pm, the glass mugs don't keep the coffee hot very long.
Biscotto, would this be your yellow?
http://z.about.com/d/desktoppub/1/0/2/3/pms109.gif
Why yes, it is rather bold. Pass the shades my dear.
Mako
I wanted colors that would permanently burn my logo into your computer monitor, ha ha.
Anyway, I toned it down a bit.
Thanks guys for being so brutally honest.
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View entire thread: promotional items - like clip art, large display items
Posted by RadarRick on 2004-10-08 09:00:46 Post Subject: promotional items - like clip art, large display items
Good Morning,
I am curious about promotional items that may be available to our industry.
For example....are there any web pages with any clip art (coffee, espresso, cafe's, bakery, cold drinks, etc.) via the internet?
I have seen at a few cafes/shops very large pottery (?) coffee cups that they used to display other items inside the cup. One coffee cup was about 3 feet in diameter and 2 feet tall and had the letters (Roman Numerals) K O I E and a logo on the side of the cup. I believe it has Japanese roots.
I have also seen several cups that were about 12 -14 inches in diameter and about 10 inches tall. They cups appeared to be display pieces used for gift baskets, etc. Not sure if they were made of pottery, porcelain, or other materials (they were not made of paper or styrofoam). Who sells these large items?
What about other very large items for the espresso, coffee industry? I am trying to locate a very large 'costume' for a person to wear that looks like a coffee cup, a coffee bean or other coffee related costumes.
What about a 'hot air balloon' style but using a fan and cold air balloon displaying a coffee cup or old fashion espresso pot? These usually sit on top of buildings or in front of the business near the frontage road.
As you can see I am looking for these items for promotional use...I just need resourses. I am sure that the coffeefest will have many of these items....I will be unable to attend, maybe (please) someone can find out who sells or makes these type of items and post them here.
RadarRick
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Posted by RadarRick on 2004-10-08 09:00:46 Post Subject: promotional items - like clip art, large display items
Good Morning,
I am curious about promotional items that may be available to our industry.
For example....are there any web pages with any clip art (coffee, espresso, cafe's, bakery, cold drinks, etc.) via the internet?
I have seen at a few cafes/shops very large pottery (?) coffee cups that they used to display other items inside the cup. One coffee cup was about 3 feet in diameter and 2 feet tall and had the letters (Roman Numerals) K O I E and a logo on the side of the cup. I believe it has Japanese roots.
I have also seen several cups that were about 12 -14 inches in diameter and about 10 inches tall. They cups appeared to be display pieces used for gift baskets, etc. Not sure if they were made of pottery, porcelain, or other materials (they were not made of paper or styrofoam). Who sells these large items?
What about other very large items for the espresso, coffee industry? I am trying to locate a very large 'costume' for a person to wear that looks like a coffee cup, a coffee bean or other coffee related costumes.
What about a 'hot air balloon' style but using a fan and cold air balloon displaying a coffee cup or old fashion espresso pot? These usually sit on top of buildings or in front of the business near the frontage road.
As you can see I am looking for these items for promotional use...I just need resourses. I am sure that the coffeefest will have many of these items....I will be unable to attend, maybe (please) someone can find out who sells or makes these type of items and post them here.
RadarRick
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View entire thread: Decorate economically the coofeeshop?
Posted by javaluva on 2006-03-02 10:31:20 Post Subject:
What we have done to add to our shop is, I drew enourmous coffee cups on wood, and my husband cut them out. I then painted them really funky. You could put your name on them, add paint textures, anything.
We also took a blank wall and made it look like an outside cafe. It turned out really cool, and I used old windows, and a very old door, added a stoop, and put flowers in pots in front of it, and brought the outside in. You could also make your coffee cups out of wood, and use chalk paint, and then put all kinds of stuff on it.
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Posted by javaluva on 2006-03-02 10:31:20 Post Subject:
What we have done to add to our shop is, I drew enourmous coffee cups on wood, and my husband cut them out. I then painted them really funky. You could put your name on them, add paint textures, anything.
We also took a blank wall and made it look like an outside cafe. It turned out really cool, and I used old windows, and a very old door, added a stoop, and put flowers in pots in front of it, and brought the outside in. You could also make your coffee cups out of wood, and use chalk paint, and then put all kinds of stuff on it.
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View entire thread: Cappuccino size different from Lattes?
Posted by momof3qc on 2006-09-17 15:04:54 Post Subject: Cappuccino size different from Lattes?
I'm trying to purchase cups and price my drinks. Because I have absolutely no experience in coffee shop how-tos, I feel so lost! Could someone tell me what size cups they offer their cappuccinos and lattes in? I've found 4oz cups to be used for cappuccinos... is this standard for lattes as well? Or should I completely forego the 4oz and go with 8oz and up? Does anyone (besides Muddy Cup) use only one size coffee cups?
Thanks so much for your input,
Kim Walker
Buddy's Ice Cream Café
Montreal, Canada
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Posted by momof3qc on 2006-09-17 15:04:54 Post Subject: Cappuccino size different from Lattes?
I'm trying to purchase cups and price my drinks. Because I have absolutely no experience in coffee shop how-tos, I feel so lost! Could someone tell me what size cups they offer their cappuccinos and lattes in? I've found 4oz cups to be used for cappuccinos... is this standard for lattes as well? Or should I completely forego the 4oz and go with 8oz and up? Does anyone (besides Muddy Cup) use only one size coffee cups?
Thanks so much for your input,
Kim Walker
Buddy's Ice Cream Café
Montreal, Canada
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View entire thread: Cappuccino size different from Lattes?
Posted by ElPugDiablo on 2006-09-18 15:30:45 Post Subject: Re: Cappuccino size different from Lattes?
I'm trying to purchase cups and price my drinks. Because I have absolutely no experience in coffee shop how-tos, I feel so lost! Could someone tell me what size cups they offer their cappuccinos and lattes in? I've found 4oz cups to be used for cappuccinos... is this standard for lattes as well? Or should I completely forego the 4oz and go with 8oz and up? Does anyone (besides Muddy Cup) use only one size coffee cups?
Thanks so much for your input,
Kim Walker
Buddy's Ice Cream Café
Montreal, Canada
single shot capp 5 oz ceramic cup or 6 oz paper cup $2.00
double shot capp 8 oz cup $2.75
double shot latte 12 oz cup $3.25
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Posted by ElPugDiablo on 2006-09-18 15:30:45 Post Subject: Re: Cappuccino size different from Lattes?
I'm trying to purchase cups and price my drinks. Because I have absolutely no experience in coffee shop how-tos, I feel so lost! Could someone tell me what size cups they offer their cappuccinos and lattes in? I've found 4oz cups to be used for cappuccinos... is this standard for lattes as well? Or should I completely forego the 4oz and go with 8oz and up? Does anyone (besides Muddy Cup) use only one size coffee cups?
Thanks so much for your input,
Kim Walker
Buddy's Ice Cream Café
Montreal, Canada
single shot capp 5 oz ceramic cup or 6 oz paper cup $2.00
double shot capp 8 oz cup $2.75
double shot latte 12 oz cup $3.25
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View entire thread: Where to find cups and saucers?
Posted by Hideaway on 2007-03-24 18:09:00 Post Subject:
I have looked at a number of restaurant supply stores and have found plenty of cups and saucers, but they are all awkward sizes or do not come in multiple sizes. Where have other owners bought their coffee cups from?
Would it be more efficient cost-wise to take the hit and buy the restaurant grade china, or to simply continue replacing cups as needed?
To answer your storage question, I plan to keep 3 of each cup on top of the machine and keep the rest beside it on the counter, switching them out as they are used. I will, of course, have extras boxed in the back.
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Posted by Hideaway on 2007-03-24 18:09:00 Post Subject:
I have looked at a number of restaurant supply stores and have found plenty of cups and saucers, but they are all awkward sizes or do not come in multiple sizes. Where have other owners bought their coffee cups from?
Would it be more efficient cost-wise to take the hit and buy the restaurant grade china, or to simply continue replacing cups as needed?
To answer your storage question, I plan to keep 3 of each cup on top of the machine and keep the rest beside it on the counter, switching them out as they are used. I will, of course, have extras boxed in the back.
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View entire thread: Starbucks are next door!
Posted by kc1 on 2006-08-26 16:15:15 Post Subject: Starbucks are next door!
I run a chain of upmarket outlets in London (OK only two at the moment!). Starbucks are immediately next door to us in our newest location and we are struggling to sell coffee. We do about 8% of sales on coffee at our other site (our core products are sushi, smoothies & wraps) but at this site we barely do 3%. Coffee is of course important to us as it is our highest margin product. Our coffee quality is v high (well I think it is) though we go for a slightly darker roast than Starbucks, training is good, service v friendly, our prices slightly lower than theirs, branded coffee cups and we do a loyalty scheme. We've done sampling and flyers and we still can't get people to change their routine. Any suggestions? Has anyone else been in this position?
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Posted by kc1 on 2006-08-26 16:15:15 Post Subject: Starbucks are next door!
I run a chain of upmarket outlets in London (OK only two at the moment!). Starbucks are immediately next door to us in our newest location and we are struggling to sell coffee. We do about 8% of sales on coffee at our other site (our core products are sushi, smoothies & wraps) but at this site we barely do 3%. Coffee is of course important to us as it is our highest margin product. Our coffee quality is v high (well I think it is) though we go for a slightly darker roast than Starbucks, training is good, service v friendly, our prices slightly lower than theirs, branded coffee cups and we do a loyalty scheme. We've done sampling and flyers and we still can't get people to change their routine. Any suggestions? Has anyone else been in this position?
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View entire thread: Cuisinart Stainless Steel Maker
Posted by PCDore on 2003-10-20 09:37:33 Post Subject: Here's how it's bad.
It's almost like it tastes weak--no matter how much coffee we use. In other words, it tastes bland. Something's missing. We've tried several different kinds of coffee; we've cleaned the machine; we've taken out the water filter; we've used hot water; we've used cold water.
We've grounded coffee, and we've used coffee that's already grounded.
I've also noticed that we get a lot of small grounds in the bottom of our coffee cups.
I'd appreciate any help you all may give.
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Posted by PCDore on 2003-10-20 09:37:33 Post Subject: Here's how it's bad.
It's almost like it tastes weak--no matter how much coffee we use. In other words, it tastes bland. Something's missing. We've tried several different kinds of coffee; we've cleaned the machine; we've taken out the water filter; we've used hot water; we've used cold water.
We've grounded coffee, and we've used coffee that's already grounded.
I've also noticed that we get a lot of small grounds in the bottom of our coffee cups.
I'd appreciate any help you all may give.
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View entire thread: For you Coffee Shop Owners...a Question???
Posted by JavaJoe on 2004-11-29 09:49:15 Post Subject: For you Coffee Shop Owners...a Question???
Can any of you Coffee Shop owners please help me out with some info? I am about to sign on the dotted line for a Barnie's Coffee & Tea Franchise, and I am trying to figure out how much my monthly expenses will be so that I can see what kind of revenue I have to generate to earn a profit. I need your help to fill in the gaps. The figures below represent known amounts for items such as Rent, CAM, etc, and for the other items such as Salaries, Electricity, I am guesstimating. Can you provide me with figures of any expenses you feel I am leaving out? Also, here is the BIG question, how can I guesstimate the Cost of Goods Sold (coffee, cups, napkins, etc)? If I sell $500,000 worth of revenue in one year, what will that revenue cost me in terms of buying the goods that I sold...10%, 20%, 50%???
Thanks so much for the help!
Rent $3,619
Property Tax $235 (6.5%)
CAM $630 ($4/sqft)
Loan Service $2,453 (Based on a $200,000 loan amount)
Insurance (Liability, Worker’s Comp) $600
Electricity $1,000
Water $1,000
Phone $100
Cable TV & WIFI $100
Payroll $6,690 (1 full time Manager at 7-9% of gross sales salary, plus 420 monthly hours of Part Time help at $7/hr)
Manager is paid on a sliding scale based on annual revenue...<$400,000 @ 7%, $400,000-$500,000 @ 8%, >$500,000 @ 9%
Franchise Royalties, adv fees, misc. Franchise fees, etc. $4,167 (based on 10% of $500,000 annual revenue)
So far, my monthly expenses are $20,594.
PLUS the following that I need to determine...
Cost of Supplies based on revenues of $300,000, $400,000, and $500,000
ANY OTHER COSTS/EXPENSES I AM LEAVING OUT
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Posted by JavaJoe on 2004-11-29 09:49:15 Post Subject: For you Coffee Shop Owners...a Question???
Can any of you Coffee Shop owners please help me out with some info? I am about to sign on the dotted line for a Barnie's Coffee & Tea Franchise, and I am trying to figure out how much my monthly expenses will be so that I can see what kind of revenue I have to generate to earn a profit. I need your help to fill in the gaps. The figures below represent known amounts for items such as Rent, CAM, etc, and for the other items such as Salaries, Electricity, I am guesstimating. Can you provide me with figures of any expenses you feel I am leaving out? Also, here is the BIG question, how can I guesstimate the Cost of Goods Sold (coffee, cups, napkins, etc)? If I sell $500,000 worth of revenue in one year, what will that revenue cost me in terms of buying the goods that I sold...10%, 20%, 50%???
Thanks so much for the help!
Rent $3,619
Property Tax $235 (6.5%)
CAM $630 ($4/sqft)
Loan Service $2,453 (Based on a $200,000 loan amount)
Insurance (Liability, Worker’s Comp) $600
Electricity $1,000
Water $1,000
Phone $100
Cable TV & WIFI $100
Payroll $6,690 (1 full time Manager at 7-9% of gross sales salary, plus 420 monthly hours of Part Time help at $7/hr)
Manager is paid on a sliding scale based on annual revenue...<$400,000 @ 7%, $400,000-$500,000 @ 8%, >$500,000 @ 9%
Franchise Royalties, adv fees, misc. Franchise fees, etc. $4,167 (based on 10% of $500,000 annual revenue)
So far, my monthly expenses are $20,594.
PLUS the following that I need to determine...
Cost of Supplies based on revenues of $300,000, $400,000, and $500,000
ANY OTHER COSTS/EXPENSES I AM LEAVING OUT
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View entire thread: For you Coffee Shop Owners...a Question???
Posted by everydaygourmet on 2004-12-13 23:36:37 Post Subject: Re: For you Coffee Shop Owners...a Question???
Can any of you Coffee Shop owners please help me out with some info? I am about to sign on the dotted line for a Barnie's Coffee & Tea Franchise, and I am trying to figure out how much my monthly expenses will be so that I can see what kind of revenue I have to generate to earn a profit. I need your help to fill in the gaps. The figures below represent known amounts for items such as Rent, CAM, etc, and for the other items such as Salaries, Electricity, I am guesstimating. Can you provide me with figures of any expenses you feel I am leaving out? Also, here is the BIG question, how can I guesstimate the Cost of Goods Sold (coffee, cups, napkins, etc)? If I sell $500,000 worth of revenue in one year, what will that revenue cost me in terms of buying the goods that I sold...10%, 20%, 50%???
Thanks so much for the help!
Rent $3,619
Property Tax $235 (6.5%)
CAM $630 ($4/sqft)
Loan Service $2,453 (Based on a $200,000 loan amount)
Insurance (Liability, Worker’s Comp) $600
Electricity $1,000
Water $1,000
Phone $100
Cable TV & WIFI $100
Payroll $6,690 (1 full time Manager at 7-9% of gross sales salary, plus 420 monthly hours of Part Time help at $7/hr)
Manager is paid on a sliding scale based on annual revenue...<$400,000 @ 7%, $400,000-$500,000 @ 8%, >$500,000 @ 9%
Franchise Royalties, adv fees, misc. Franchise fees, etc. $4,167 (based on 10% of $500,000 annual revenue)
So far, my monthly expenses are $20,594.
PLUS the following that I need to determine...
Cost of Supplies based on revenues of $300,000, $400,000, and $500,000
ANY OTHER COSTS/EXPENSES I AM LEAVING OUT
Franchise reps make comissions on selling you their franchises...they will tell you anything to sign, and sign quick.
Don't do it....if you do not have these answers get the answers.
This is the age of the internet...you found this website, now you start digging, and finding real info.
I got roped into a franchise, who told me that Subway was a scam, and would never make it. My franchise was out of business in 3 years, and I went under 6 years later when Subway (the guy who bought the franchise after I told them to get lost) opened this 3rd store.
He is a millionaire....and I'm still working (hard I might add) to make a living, and no retirement in sight. good thing I found Double Americano's to help me in my old age. 
Take a night (or a week or a month) and keep digging.
Good luck
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Posted by everydaygourmet on 2004-12-13 23:36:37 Post Subject: Re: For you Coffee Shop Owners...a Question???
Can any of you Coffee Shop owners please help me out with some info? I am about to sign on the dotted line for a Barnie's Coffee & Tea Franchise, and I am trying to figure out how much my monthly expenses will be so that I can see what kind of revenue I have to generate to earn a profit. I need your help to fill in the gaps. The figures below represent known amounts for items such as Rent, CAM, etc, and for the other items such as Salaries, Electricity, I am guesstimating. Can you provide me with figures of any expenses you feel I am leaving out? Also, here is the BIG question, how can I guesstimate the Cost of Goods Sold (coffee, cups, napkins, etc)? If I sell $500,000 worth of revenue in one year, what will that revenue cost me in terms of buying the goods that I sold...10%, 20%, 50%???
Thanks so much for the help!
Rent $3,619
Property Tax $235 (6.5%)
CAM $630 ($4/sqft)
Loan Service $2,453 (Based on a $200,000 loan amount)
Insurance (Liability, Worker’s Comp) $600
Electricity $1,000
Water $1,000
Phone $100
Cable TV & WIFI $100
Payroll $6,690 (1 full time Manager at 7-9% of gross sales salary, plus 420 monthly hours of Part Time help at $7/hr)
Manager is paid on a sliding scale based on annual revenue...<$400,000 @ 7%, $400,000-$500,000 @ 8%, >$500,000 @ 9%
Franchise Royalties, adv fees, misc. Franchise fees, etc. $4,167 (based on 10% of $500,000 annual revenue)
So far, my monthly expenses are $20,594.
PLUS the following that I need to determine...
Cost of Supplies based on revenues of $300,000, $400,000, and $500,000
ANY OTHER COSTS/EXPENSES I AM LEAVING OUT
Franchise reps make comissions on selling you their franchises...they will tell you anything to sign, and sign quick.
Don't do it....if you do not have these answers get the answers.
This is the age of the internet...you found this website, now you start digging, and finding real info.
I got roped into a franchise, who told me that Subway was a scam, and would never make it. My franchise was out of business in 3 years, and I went under 6 years later when Subway (the guy who bought the franchise after I told them to get lost) opened this 3rd store.
He is a millionaire....and I'm still working (hard I might add) to make a living, and no retirement in sight.
good thing I found Double Americano's to help me in my old age. Take a night (or a week or a month) and keep digging.
Good luck
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View entire thread: Recyclable disposable cups and lids?
Posted by CoffeeNPraise on 2005-06-13 16:36:41 Post Subject: paper cups
...don't know if this helps but we found a company out of Wa. that does all recycled and recyclable wood products including liquid containers. I havent completely navigated the site myself, but I did find that they produce coffee cups with one of three options for coating....the company is called Weyerhaeuser. take a look and see if they have what you are looking for.
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Posted by CoffeeNPraise on 2005-06-13 16:36:41 Post Subject: paper cups
...don't know if this helps but we found a company out of Wa. that does all recycled and recyclable wood products including liquid containers. I havent completely navigated the site myself, but I did find that they produce coffee cups with one of three options for coating....the company is called Weyerhaeuser. take a look and see if they have what you are looking for.
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View entire thread: I was given a Keurig Elite for Christmas ...
Posted by javahill on 2006-05-21 09:29:10 Post Subject:
whfite has it right. The key thing about tastes is they change. Before Starbucks and specialty coffee, a great many people thought Folgers and Maxwell House were great cups of coffee. Many still do. But if you look at how people are voting with their coffee cups, the red and blue cans are riding downhill in terms of volume. People who drink that are switching or dying off or waiting to do either of the above. There are no new Folgers drinkers.
Depending on whether you measure dollars or pounds of coffee, specialty coffee is growing about 40 percent a year. Keurig is growing even faster than that.
The biggest place Keurig is growing is in the office. The competition for Keurig is office coffee - the stuff that has been sitting on a burner for who knows how long, the last half cup of sludge in the glass decanter, the why the hell doesn't the manager make his own damn pot of coffee if he takes the last cup. And I like French Roast, how dare you brew hazelnut without scrubbing the decanter afterwards? We're going to be tasting hazelnut in our coffee for weeks. Pity the decaf drinkers in the office. Talk about second class citizens.
In the office universe, Keurig isn't just convenient - it is superior. If you are in an office that is brewing prepackged portion controlled coffee, take a look at the weight. Most office coffee is brewed with between 1.3 and 2.0 ounces of coffee per 64 oz of water. For reference, the Specialty Coffee Association Golden Cup standard has a minimum of 3.5 (maybe 3.25).
It I did the math right, Keurig is targeted at coffee brewed in a range of 2.2 to 2.5 oz per 64 oz and close to 3 oz for the bold k-cups. That is going to tend to make it a bit thinner than you'd get at most coffee shops and probably at home, too. But well within drinkable.
And yes, there are some coffee snobs whose noses are so high in the air, they actually pushed them up over their backs and so onward arching until they've managed to plant their noses - and in extreme cases - the entire head - up between their own buttocks. It is kind of like yoga.
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Posted by javahill on 2006-05-21 09:29:10 Post Subject:
whfite has it right. The key thing about tastes is they change. Before Starbucks and specialty coffee, a great many people thought Folgers and Maxwell House were great cups of coffee. Many still do. But if you look at how people are voting with their coffee cups, the red and blue cans are riding downhill in terms of volume. People who drink that are switching or dying off or waiting to do either of the above. There are no new Folgers drinkers.
Depending on whether you measure dollars or pounds of coffee, specialty coffee is growing about 40 percent a year. Keurig is growing even faster than that.
The biggest place Keurig is growing is in the office. The competition for Keurig is office coffee - the stuff that has been sitting on a burner for who knows how long, the last half cup of sludge in the glass decanter, the why the hell doesn't the manager make his own damn pot of coffee if he takes the last cup. And I like French Roast, how dare you brew hazelnut without scrubbing the decanter afterwards? We're going to be tasting hazelnut in our coffee for weeks. Pity the decaf drinkers in the office. Talk about second class citizens.
In the office universe, Keurig isn't just convenient - it is superior. If you are in an office that is brewing prepackged portion controlled coffee, take a look at the weight. Most office coffee is brewed with between 1.3 and 2.0 ounces of coffee per 64 oz of water. For reference, the Specialty Coffee Association Golden Cup standard has a minimum of 3.5 (maybe 3.25).
It I did the math right, Keurig is targeted at coffee brewed in a range of 2.2 to 2.5 oz per 64 oz and close to 3 oz for the bold k-cups. That is going to tend to make it a bit thinner than you'd get at most coffee shops and probably at home, too. But well within drinkable.
And yes, there are some coffee snobs whose noses are so high in the air, they actually pushed them up over their backs and so onward arching until they've managed to plant their noses - and in extreme cases - the entire head - up between their own buttocks. It is kind of like yoga.
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View entire thread: Opening Day- Our Harlequin Coffee Wagon
Posted by CoffeeGoddess on 2005-06-15 13:06:21 Post Subject: Opening Day- Our Harlequin Coffee Wagon
Can we post pictures on this site?!!
Yeehaw! We FINALLY finished converting a horse-trailer into a coffee wagon and started roasting, brewing and serving to the masses at our downtown farmer's market, two days a week, a few weeks ago.
It's been wonderful! The first day, our freezer went crazy and froze the milk, so I decided I had three choices: 1) Break down and cry 2) Fold up and start again the next market day 3) Go ahead and stay, give away the brewed coffee (obviously no lattes or mochas) and get to say hello to the folks who will be our customers.
I chose number three and had a busy, wonderful time. The feedback on the Kona-blend that I roasted myself was wonderful and I must have received a thousand compliments on our cart. The health inspector came to give me my go-over and told me that we should build and sell them- he loved it and passed us with flying colors and free advice on where to advertise!
After that first chaotic week of opening the market, I excepted things to slow down a bit. Instead, we are gaining in sales each day. We will definitely pay for the cart early this summer (even working only two mornings a week).
The cart itself started as a double-axel horse trailer (the balance is beautiful and it's a solid piece, unlike other kinds of trailers we looked at). We put in a good floor then used the same material for the ceiling and countertops, plus we have the needed three sinks, had sink, hot running water, etc. I stand OUTSIDE the trailer, with the espresso machine facing the customers so that I can talk and interact with the customers. I think this had been key- people love to come up and chat about the wagon. They really love seeing the espresso trickle and change colors as it flows.
My husband converted the electric-powered espresso machine to gas (and what a powerhouse it is! A Conte hand-levered one that goes on forever!). The wagon uses five-gallon bottled water (we have two gas powered water heaters from RVs, customized by the hubby for our needs) and we have the ability to carry many more. We put a countertop over the front half of the trailer so the little outside door (painted bright gold) opens into a large storage area for water and cups, etc.
The only time I need to plug into any power is if I want to run the drip brewers while running the grinder... otherwise, I can balance the power needs without having to plug in, AND NO LOUD GENERATOR!!! Propane and a battery, baybay!!
The wagon is painted in a gold, harlequin pattern and I have an airbrush artist coming out to look at it this weekend to add two coffee cups to the back doors.
All in all, we spent way under $10,000 and have a wonderful coffee cart with room to add a little oven or (as the health inspector suggested) carry a grill that has a cover on it to set up outside the wagon, so growth is possible (if we choose). The market has been very busy and we already have "regulars" who love to talk Fair Trade, peaberry and smile when I use an actual demitasse for a shot.
LOVIN' IT BIG TIME!!! It'll be even better next summer when the profits of the day are no longer paying off the credit card bill we amassed in making it.
Loving that man, of mine...
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Posted by CoffeeGoddess on 2005-06-15 13:06:21 Post Subject: Opening Day- Our Harlequin Coffee Wagon
Can we post pictures on this site?!!
Yeehaw! We FINALLY finished converting a horse-trailer into a coffee wagon and started roasting, brewing and serving to the masses at our downtown farmer's market, two days a week, a few weeks ago.
It's been wonderful! The first day, our freezer went crazy and froze the milk, so I decided I had three choices: 1) Break down and cry 2) Fold up and start again the next market day 3) Go ahead and stay, give away the brewed coffee (obviously no lattes or mochas) and get to say hello to the folks who will be our customers.
I chose number three and had a busy, wonderful time. The feedback on the Kona-blend that I roasted myself was wonderful and I must have received a thousand compliments on our cart. The health inspector came to give me my go-over and told me that we should build and sell them- he loved it and passed us with flying colors and free advice on where to advertise!
After that first chaotic week of opening the market, I excepted things to slow down a bit. Instead, we are gaining in sales each day. We will definitely pay for the cart early this summer (even working only two mornings a week).
The cart itself started as a double-axel horse trailer (the balance is beautiful and it's a solid piece, unlike other kinds of trailers we looked at). We put in a good floor then used the same material for the ceiling and countertops, plus we have the needed three sinks, had sink, hot running water, etc. I stand OUTSIDE the trailer, with the espresso machine facing the customers so that I can talk and interact with the customers. I think this had been key- people love to come up and chat about the wagon. They really love seeing the espresso trickle and change colors as it flows.
My husband converted the electric-powered espresso machine to gas (and what a powerhouse it is! A Conte hand-levered one that goes on forever!). The wagon uses five-gallon bottled water (we have two gas powered water heaters from RVs, customized by the hubby for our needs) and we have the ability to carry many more. We put a countertop over the front half of the trailer so the little outside door (painted bright gold) opens into a large storage area for water and cups, etc.
The only time I need to plug into any power is if I want to run the drip brewers while running the grinder... otherwise, I can balance the power needs without having to plug in, AND NO LOUD GENERATOR!!! Propane and a battery, baybay!!
The wagon is painted in a gold, harlequin pattern and I have an airbrush artist coming out to look at it this weekend to add two coffee cups to the back doors.
All in all, we spent way under $10,000 and have a wonderful coffee cart with room to add a little oven or (as the health inspector suggested) carry a grill that has a cover on it to set up outside the wagon, so growth is possible (if we choose). The market has been very busy and we already have "regulars" who love to talk Fair Trade, peaberry and smile when I use an actual demitasse for a shot.
LOVIN' IT BIG TIME!!! It'll be even better next summer when the profits of the day are no longer paying off the credit card bill we amassed in making it.
Loving that man, of mine...
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View entire thread: Trying to find the perfect water/coffee ratio
Posted by Drakyn on 2008-01-20 21:37:44 Post Subject:
This also always had me confused and I wonder if anyone could take this any further. Here''s the deal:
Nearly all coffee products say 1 - 2 Tablespoons for every 6 or 8 oz. of water. Okay. I use your standard drip coffee maker. So, if I want a full pot of coffee, 12 cups usually, then I need to throw 12 - 24 tablespoons of coffee grounds into the filter/basket? This just seems a little too much to me. Or am I wrong? I grind my coffee very fine in order to squeeze out all the flavor of the bean and I like the strong taste. But, it would seem that if I used this much on a full pot, then it would almost be undrinkable.
I have found that around 1/2 to 3/4 of of cup of fine grounds will make a nice strong pot of coffee. Why don''t the numbers add up?
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Posted by Drakyn on 2008-01-20 21:37:44 Post Subject:
This also always had me confused and I wonder if anyone could take this any further. Here''s the deal:
Nearly all coffee products say 1 - 2 Tablespoons for every 6 or 8 oz. of water. Okay. I use your standard drip coffee maker. So, if I want a full pot of coffee, 12 cups usually, then I need to throw 12 - 24 tablespoons of coffee grounds into the filter/basket? This just seems a little too much to me. Or am I wrong? I grind my coffee very fine in order to squeeze out all the flavor of the bean and I like the strong taste. But, it would seem that if I used this much on a full pot, then it would almost be undrinkable.
I have found that around 1/2 to 3/4 of of cup of fine grounds will make a nice strong pot of coffee. Why don''t the numbers add up?
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View entire thread: Trying to find the perfect water/coffee ratio
Posted by ElPugDiablo on 2008-01-21 13:46:13 Post Subject:
This also always had me confused and I wonder if anyone could take this any further. Here''s the deal:
Nearly all coffee products say 1 - 2 Tablespoons for every 6 or 8 oz. of water. Okay. I use your standard drip coffee maker. So, if I want a full pot of coffee, 12 cups usually, then I need to throw 12 - 24 tablespoons of coffee grounds into the filter/basket? This just seems a little too much to me. Or am I wrong? I grind my coffee very fine in order to squeeze out all the flavor of the bean and I like the strong taste. But, it would seem that if I used this much on a full pot, then it would almost be undrinkable.
I have found that around 1/2 to 3/4 of of cup of fine grounds will make a nice strong pot of coffee. Why don''t the numbers add up?
12 cups at 6 to 8 ounce = 72 to 84 ounce of liquid. Is the volume correct? You should measure how much water is 12 cups for your machine. You should then weight your coffee. A rough translation of John P's metric measurement means use 2 ounces (1/8 of a pound, I would use a little less, but that is my preference) of coffee for 32 ounces (2 pints) of water. Once you know the correct dosage you can then translate that to table spoon or cup.
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Posted by ElPugDiablo on 2008-01-21 13:46:13 Post Subject:
This also always had me confused and I wonder if anyone could take this any further. Here''s the deal:
Nearly all coffee products say 1 - 2 Tablespoons for every 6 or 8 oz. of water. Okay. I use your standard drip coffee maker. So, if I want a full pot of coffee, 12 cups usually, then I need to throw 12 - 24 tablespoons of coffee grounds into the filter/basket? This just seems a little too much to me. Or am I wrong? I grind my coffee very fine in order to squeeze out all the flavor of the bean and I like the strong taste. But, it would seem that if I used this much on a full pot, then it would almost be undrinkable.
I have found that around 1/2 to 3/4 of of cup of fine grounds will make a nice strong pot of coffee. Why don''t the numbers add up?
12 cups at 6 to 8 ounce = 72 to 84 ounce of liquid. Is the volume correct? You should measure how much water is 12 cups for your machine. You should then weight your coffee. A rough translation of John P's metric measurement means use 2 ounces (1/8 of a pound, I would use a little less, but that is my preference) of coffee for 32 ounces (2 pints) of water. Once you know the correct dosage you can then translate that to table spoon or cup.
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View entire thread: Trying to find the perfect water/coffee ratio
Posted by CafeBlue on 2008-02-06 16:21:44 Post Subject:
This also always had me confused ... I use your standard drip coffee maker. So, if I want a full pot of coffee, 12 cups usually, then I need to throw 12 - 24 tablespoons of coffee grounds into the filter/basket? This just seems a little too much to me. Or am I wrong? I grind my coffee very fine in order to squeeze out all the flavor of the bean and I like the strong taste. But, it would seem that if I used this much on a full pot, then it would almost be undrinkable.... Why don''t the numbers add up?
2 level tablespoons per cup is the "standard" and it does work.
Some folks adjust to "taste preference" - usually it is more coffee for northern Europeans / less coffee for folks drinking low grade commercial coffee. Many of the coffee drinkers using less than 2 tablespoons per cup are brewing cheap, stale coffee that is high in 'robusta coffea' content. Perhaps it tastes too murky to tolerate at full strength?!?
Your "standard drip coffee maker" is not a standard, and not likely 12 cups. Most of the residential type brewers are in the range of 34 to 46 fluid ounces capacity. 10 to 15 tablespoons of coffee should work, but may not. Many residential brewers use filter baskets that are designed too small for proper brewing. If your brewer can not hold enough coffee (or if the complete brew cycle takes too long), brew a partial batch. A friend had a Melitta brewer that only made a decent cup if we brewed a half pot of coffee, otherwise the slow brew cycle made the coffee bitter and over-extracted. The entire brewing cycle (to avoid over-extraction) should be between 3 and 6 minutes from start to finish.
Similarly do not grind the coffee fine for drip brewing. Ignore what cheapskate economizers like Madame Melitta profess. Too fine a grind promotes over-extraction. Regular drip grind is just right for all brewers using a paper filter - cone, basket, 4 cup, home brewer, half gallon, 1.5 gallon, 3 gallon hotel brewer.
Grind it too fine and the brew over-extracts. Not ALL of the coffee should end up in your cup. Only the first 15-20% of the coffee is soluble flavor - the rest should be left behind in the spent grounds (it makes good compost). Rather than trying to "squeeze out all the flavor", use the proper 2 tablespoon dose and brew it properly for strong and flavorful coffee that you can savor.
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Posted by CafeBlue on 2008-02-06 16:21:44 Post Subject:
This also always had me confused ... I use your standard drip coffee maker. So, if I want a full pot of coffee, 12 cups usually, then I need to throw 12 - 24 tablespoons of coffee grounds into the filter/basket? This just seems a little too much to me. Or am I wrong? I grind my coffee very fine in order to squeeze out all the flavor of the bean and I like the strong taste. But, it would seem that if I used this much on a full pot, then it would almost be undrinkable.... Why don''t the numbers add up?
2 level tablespoons per cup is the "standard" and it does work.
Some folks adjust to "taste preference" - usually it is more coffee for northern Europeans / less coffee for folks drinking low grade commercial coffee. Many of the coffee drinkers using less than 2 tablespoons per cup are brewing cheap, stale coffee that is high in 'robusta coffea' content. Perhaps it tastes too murky to tolerate at full strength?!?
Your "standard drip coffee maker" is not a standard, and not likely 12 cups. Most of the residential type brewers are in the range of 34 to 46 fluid ounces capacity. 10 to 15 tablespoons of coffee should work, but may not. Many residential brewers use filter baskets that are designed too small for proper brewing. If your brewer can not hold enough coffee (or if the complete brew cycle takes too long), brew a partial batch. A friend had a Melitta brewer that only made a decent cup if we brewed a half pot of coffee, otherwise the slow brew cycle made the coffee bitter and over-extracted. The entire brewing cycle (to avoid over-extraction) should be between 3 and 6 minutes from start to finish.
Similarly do not grind the coffee fine for drip brewing. Ignore what cheapskate economizers like Madame Melitta profess. Too fine a grind promotes over-extraction. Regular drip grind is just right for all brewers using a paper filter - cone, basket, 4 cup, home brewer, half gallon, 1.5 gallon, 3 gallon hotel brewer.
Grind it too fine and the brew over-extracts. Not ALL of the coffee should end up in your cup. Only the first 15-20% of the coffee is soluble flavor - the rest should be left behind in the spent grounds (it makes good compost). Rather than trying to "squeeze out all the flavor", use the proper 2 tablespoon dose and brew it properly for strong and flavorful coffee that you can savor.
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View entire thread: Senseo
Posted by eodove on 2007-01-29 13:33:20 Post Subject: Philips Senseo Review
Product Reviewed: Senseo
Manufacturer: Philips
Average Price: Varies - ~$60.00
Price Paid: $0.00
Where Bought: Product Survey
Owned for: 2 months
Bottom Line: This may be for the person that needs the "cup of joe on the go,” but it is not for the coffee connoisseur.
Positive Product Points
Sleek styling, looks good on the counter
Simplicity (no clock, no timer, no built-in grinder), fewer things to break
Negative Product Points
Does not reach proper brewing temperature
Convenience for some (no clock, no timer, no built-in grinder)
Detailed Commentary
Phillips Senseo (Black), Model – HD7810:
Caveats:
1) I did not pay for this product and it was not a gift. I got this product free as part of an online survey.
2) I roast my own coffee beans and I expect products to make great coffee.
3) I am planning on giving this away to someone who will enjoy it.
Specifications:
Brew Temp = 178 - 193º F (as tested)
Brew Time = < 1 minute for a single cup
Dimensions = 13” tall x 8 1/2” wide x 12” deep
Weight = ~4 lbs with water
Cord = polarized plug, not a three prong grounded plug, 38” long
Electrical = 1450 watts, 120 volts
Capacity = ~24 oz., 6 – 4 oz. cups, 3 – 8 oz. cups
Filter = Coffee Pods
Certification = None that I know of
Warranty = 2 years U.S.
Made in China
Outlet voltage where tested = 121.5 volts
Arrival, Setup & First Impression:
This product is packed at the top and bottom with pieces of “egg-carton” type material and the box is the typical glossy packaging that includes smiling faces indulging in the aroma, but not actually consuming the brew.
The instruction manual is a well-written booklet (8 1/4” x 5 3/4”) of 20 pages including the front and back covers. It is written in only one language, English. Read the manual.
It takes a few minutes to set it up because you have to go through the process of filling the internal boiler. The instructions make this a simple task and also include directions for brewing, cleaning, descaling and storage.
The exterior of the brewer is made of lots of glossy, black plastic which enhances all of the curves. The chromed grate on which the coffee cups rest awaiting the brew adds a nice touch. Around the on / off button, the plastic bevels outward and around the brewing buttons, the plastic bevels inward. The buttons have a positive tactile feel.
Brewing:
After setup, brewing is simple and quick.
1) Fill the reservoir and reinstall on the back of the brewer
2) Turn the brewer on
3) Select one or two pods and the single or double pod holder as appropriate
4) Place pod(s) in pod holder
5) Lift lever to open the top
6) Place pod holder into brewer
7) Close the top
8) Lock the lever down
9) Place cup(s) under spouts (it can brew 2 - 4 oz. cups simultaneously)
10) Press the button
It is a shame that something this easy to use comes up short on one of the most critical factors, brew temperature. Optimum brew temperature is 195º – 205º F (closer to 205 for my taste) and unfortunately this brewer does not get that hot which negatively affects the brew. The absolute hottest reading I could get was 193.2º F, but the temperature readings averaged about 185º F.
I went out and bought an insert to replace the pod holder so that I could brew some of my fresh, home roasted coffee that I had brewed in another brewer earlier the same day so that I could do an objective comparison. After several attempts culminating in using 25% more coffee than recommended, I did get some flavor out of the brewer. It was reminiscent of the coffee brewed earlier, but the flavor was very thin, mouth-feel was similar to hot water and the brew was devoid of body. The creama maker in the pod holder is pointless and I understand that you can get the pod holders without this by calling Philips.
If you like store-bought coffee with (or without) cream / flavored creamer and / or sweetener, then you may thoroughly enjoy the convenience of this brewer.
On a positive note, there is no hotplate to cause burns; however the liquid is still very hot and you will want to keep children away from it; near the end of the brew cycle it drips into the full cup and it can spatter a little of the hot liquid. Once you remove your cup, there are two holes in the chromed grate that are directly beneath the spouts. Further drippings fall through these two holes and into the plastic drip tray beneath
Cleaning Up:
Carefully, because things are still hot, lift the lever and open the top. Remove the pod holder and discard the pod out of reach of children (it is still hot). Towel dry the inside of the top, and wash and dry the pod holder, coffee outflow unit (spouts) and the drip tray. Wipe or wash the chromed grate (coffee cup tray), but be careful because the edges are sharp. According to the manual, these parts can be run through the dishwasher.
Cost:
This is a relatively inexpensive brewer especially given the convenience it can provide as it averages at about $60.00. The pods can get to be expensive which is good reason to buy the pod holder replacement and use the coffee of your choice.
Other Considerations:
If you like this machine, or the idea of it, I strongly suggest getting the pod holder replacement that allows you to use the freshest coffee of your choice.
There are other factors that go into making a great cup of coffee:
1) Good, fresh coffee ground immediately before brewing
2) Use of a quality flat or conical burr grinder
3) Use of good quality water
4) Filter medium and quality thereof
5) etc., etc., etc.
6) Patience to tweak things until its just the way you like it!
I hope this is helpful ... If I left anything out or you wish to ask me questions, just email me.
Buying Experience
None. I received this product free for participating in an online survey.
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Posted by eodove on 2007-01-29 13:33:20 Post Subject: Philips Senseo Review
Product Reviewed: Senseo
Manufacturer: Philips
Average Price: Varies - ~$60.00
Price Paid: $0.00
Where Bought: Product Survey
Owned for: 2 months
Bottom Line: This may be for the person that needs the "cup of joe on the go,” but it is not for the coffee connoisseur.
Positive Product Points
Sleek styling, looks good on the counter
Simplicity (no clock, no timer, no built-in grinder), fewer things to break
Negative Product Points
Does not reach proper brewing temperature
Convenience for some (no clock, no timer, no built-in grinder)
Detailed Commentary
Phillips Senseo (Black), Model – HD7810:
Caveats:
1) I did not pay for this product and it was not a gift. I got this product free as part of an online survey.
2) I roast my own coffee beans and I expect products to make great coffee.
3) I am planning on giving this away to someone who will enjoy it.
Specifications:
Brew Temp = 178 - 193º F (as tested)
Brew Time = < 1 minute for a single cup
Dimensions = 13” tall x 8 1/2” wide x 12” deep
Weight = ~4 lbs with water
Cord = polarized plug, not a three prong grounded plug, 38” long
Electrical = 1450 watts, 120 volts
Capacity = ~24 oz., 6 – 4 oz. cups, 3 – 8 oz. cups
Filter = Coffee Pods
Certification = None that I know of
Warranty = 2 years U.S.
Made in China
Outlet voltage where tested = 121.5 volts
Arrival, Setup & First Impression:
This product is packed at the top and bottom with pieces of “egg-carton” type material and the box is the typical glossy packaging that includes smiling faces indulging in the aroma, but not actually consuming the brew.
The instruction manual is a well-written booklet (8 1/4” x 5 3/4”) of 20 pages including the front and back covers. It is written in only one language, English. Read the manual.
It takes a few minutes to set it up because you have to go through the process of filling the internal boiler. The instructions make this a simple task and also include directions for brewing, cleaning, descaling and storage.
The exterior of the brewer is made of lots of glossy, black plastic which enhances all of the curves. The chromed grate on which the coffee cups rest awaiting the brew adds a nice touch. Around the on / off button, the plastic bevels outward and around the brewing buttons, the plastic bevels inward. The buttons have a positive tactile feel.
Brewing:
After setup, brewing is simple and quick.
1) Fill the reservoir and reinstall on the back of the brewer
2) Turn the brewer on
3) Select one or two pods and the single or double pod holder as appropriate
4) Place pod(s) in pod holder
5) Lift lever to open the top
6) Place pod holder into brewer
7) Close the top
8) Lock the lever down
9) Place cup(s) under spouts (it can brew 2 - 4 oz. cups simultaneously)
10) Press the button
It is a shame that something this easy to use comes up short on one of the most critical factors, brew temperature. Optimum brew temperature is 195º – 205º F (closer to 205 for my taste) and unfortunately this brewer does not get that hot which negatively affects the brew. The absolute hottest reading I could get was 193.2º F, but the temperature readings averaged about 185º F.
I went out and bought an insert to replace the pod holder so that I could brew some of my fresh, home roasted coffee that I had brewed in another brewer earlier the same day so that I could do an objective comparison. After several attempts culminating in using 25% more coffee than recommended, I did get some flavor out of the brewer. It was reminiscent of the coffee brewed earlier, but the flavor was very thin, mouth-feel was similar to hot water and the brew was devoid of body. The creama maker in the pod holder is pointless and I understand that you can get the pod holders without this by calling Philips.
If you like store-bought coffee with (or without) cream / flavored creamer and / or sweetener, then you may thoroughly enjoy the convenience of this brewer.
On a positive note, there is no hotplate to cause burns; however the liquid is still very hot and you will want to keep children away from it; near the end of the brew cycle it drips into the full cup and it can spatter a little of the hot liquid. Once you remove your cup, there are two holes in the chromed grate that are directly beneath the spouts. Further drippings fall through these two holes and into the plastic drip tray beneath
Cleaning Up:
Carefully, because things are still hot, lift the lever and open the top. Remove the pod holder and discard the pod out of reach of children (it is still hot). Towel dry the inside of the top, and wash and dry the pod holder, coffee outflow unit (spouts) and the drip tray. Wipe or wash the chromed grate (coffee cup tray), but be careful because the edges are sharp. According to the manual, these parts can be run through the dishwasher.
Cost:
This is a relatively inexpensive brewer especially given the convenience it can provide as it averages at about $60.00. The pods can get to be expensive which is good reason to buy the pod holder replacement and use the coffee of your choice.
Other Considerations:
If you like this machine, or the idea of it, I strongly suggest getting the pod holder replacement that allows you to use the freshest coffee of your choice.
There are other factors that go into making a great cup of coffee:
1) Good, fresh coffee ground immediately before brewing
2) Use of a quality flat or conical burr grinder
3) Use of good quality water
4) Filter medium and quality thereof
5) etc., etc., etc.
6) Patience to tweak things until its just the way you like it!
I hope this is helpful ... If I left anything out or you wish to ask me questions, just email me.
Buying Experience
None. I received this product free for participating in an online survey.
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View entire thread: BLAMO!!!!
Posted by tintinet on 2003-11-09 09:26:50 Post Subject: More Caffeine!!!
Not that there's anything wrong with that!
"Researchers say that previous research has shown that the traditional five-ounce cup of coffee has about 85 milligrams of caffeine, and American adults consumed an average of about 200 milligrams of caffeine per day in 1978, with about 75% of that caffeine coming from coffee.
But this study, published in the October issue of the Journal of Analytical Toxicology, shows that larger coffee cups coupled with widely varying caffeine contents in popular coffees may be increasing American's caffeine consumption. "
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Posted by tintinet on 2003-11-09 09:26:50 Post Subject: More Caffeine!!!
Not that there's anything wrong with that!
"Researchers say that previous research has shown that the traditional five-ounce cup of coffee has about 85 milligrams of caffeine, and American adults consumed an average of about 200 milligrams of caffeine per day in 1978, with about 75% of that caffeine coming from coffee.
But this study, published in the October issue of the Journal of Analytical Toxicology, shows that larger coffee cups coupled with widely varying caffeine contents in popular coffees may be increasing American's caffeine consumption. "
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View entire thread: Saeco Incanto Sirius - good machine?
Posted by I_dunno on 2006-09-24 01:29:08 Post Subject:
Couldn't resist any longer...went and bought the Incanto Sirius. For other people like me (coffee lover but migrating from a regular coffee machine that can also make espresso), I'd like to share my first impressions.
I have these settings:
12 gram dose
high temp
SBS set to about 1:30pm
default volume on the small cup setting
second to finest grind
Illy Espresso beans
Taste
Now, having been using a $140 Krups I have to say that the espresso from the Incanto Sirius tastes absolutely lovely. The crema on a single shot was excellent (I think...looked good to me anyway), and ok when doing 2 shots at the same time (not quite as thick as with the single shot but still ok).
Steamer
There has been a lot of talk in threads about the steamer wand not being very good and not moving very far. Well, I think they must have redesigned it since those comments because it seems to angle out quite nicely. The foam is, well, foamy. Not tight foam but almost as good as one might hope for...its as good as you get in your local Starbucks in my opinion. I tried covering up the tiny hole that I'm assuming lets the air in and that seem to help a bit.
LCD/Menu
The menu system is excellent...really good. Like me, you may be thinking that the LCD "touch sensitive" panel is just a gimick and just something else to break. Well, maybe, but I gotta tell you that it is so easy to use and gives good feedback to the user during menu selections and brewing (not to mention all the sensors telling you the door is open and so on).
Temperature of drinks
Set the temperature setting to hot, and pre-warm the cup you're going to use (although you won't be doing that with the warming plate..see below) and you're going to get a cup of coffee that to most average people is hot enough...again, in my opinion.
Leak filling trip tray Issue
As far as I can see so far, it's not an issue. If you put something under the steamer when you vent it to get the steam going I think it'll be fine.
Small issues
Yeah, I suppose the resevoir could be a bit bigger. By the time one has rinsed, vented enough water to allow the steam to come through and rinsed again at the end you get through a fair amount of water each time you use the machine.
It is really weird that the LCD panel backlight doesn't go off in standby.
Talking of standby, I wonder what the power draw is when in this state...anyone know? I think I'm going ask Saeco that question.
The cup warmer takes a while to warm up and you have to turn it on through the menu. I won't use it for warming one cup to use for my own cup of joe, but if you were having a dinner party or something like that where you know in advance you're going to use the cups then yeah, it's kinda nice to have. Not very big but no one should complain about that right???? Why?...because, my freinds, you are buying what has been designed as a compact machine. Having said that, it comfortably will hold at least espresso cups or 4 small coffee cups. If you want a big cup warmer though go buy a hot plate.
Summary
Ok, I've only had this thing for an afternoon, but having spent only 20mins getting things setup I'm now enjoying a really nice cup of coffee (although I have had way too much of it today . Notwithstanding the price-tag, an average owner is probably going to like this machine. And really that's why I wrote this review. I have read the comments on this forum and while some of them are really helpful (for example the settings to get a strong brew...saved me time) some others are a little on the advanced side for an average person, albeit well meant. I mean, I don't think many people are going to care that the secondary heating block is aluminum (primary block is Steel). And the time in seconds that it takes for a shot to pour is somewhat interesting but irrelevant if the product looks and tastes good. As I said though, all well meant and I'm sure there are some advanced coffee gurus out there that would find that info important.
That's it for the moment. I think I will post more impressions after I've been using the machine for a month or 2. Dropping this kind of money on a coffee machine is a big deal for most folk so I'm sure that others who use this site would appreciate the unsolicited feedback on this or any other super auto machine.
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Posted by I_dunno on 2006-09-24 01:29:08 Post Subject:
Couldn't resist any longer...went and bought the Incanto Sirius. For other people like me (coffee lover but migrating from a regular coffee machine that can also make espresso), I'd like to share my first impressions.
I have these settings:
12 gram dose
high temp
SBS set to about 1:30pm
default volume on the small cup setting
second to finest grind
Illy Espresso beans
Taste
Now, having been using a $140 Krups I have to say that the espresso from the Incanto Sirius tastes absolutely lovely. The crema on a single shot was excellent (I think...looked good to me anyway), and ok when doing 2 shots at the same time (not quite as thick as with the single shot but still ok).
Steamer
There has been a lot of talk in threads about the steamer wand not being very good and not moving very far. Well, I think they must have redesigned it since those comments because it seems to angle out quite nicely. The foam is, well, foamy. Not tight foam but almost as good as one might hope for...its as good as you get in your local Starbucks in my opinion. I tried covering up the tiny hole that I'm assuming lets the air in and that seem to help a bit.
LCD/Menu
The menu system is excellent...really good. Like me, you may be thinking that the LCD "touch sensitive" panel is just a gimick and just something else to break. Well, maybe, but I gotta tell you that it is so easy to use and gives good feedback to the user during menu selections and brewing (not to mention all the sensors telling you the door is open and so on).
Temperature of drinks
Set the temperature setting to hot, and pre-warm the cup you're going to use (although you won't be doing that with the warming plate..see below) and you're going to get a cup of coffee that to most average people is hot enough...again, in my opinion.
Leak filling trip tray Issue
As far as I can see so far, it's not an issue. If you put something under the steamer when you vent it to get the steam going I think it'll be fine.
Small issues
Yeah, I suppose the resevoir could be a bit bigger. By the time one has rinsed, vented enough water to allow the steam to come through and rinsed again at the end you get through a fair amount of water each time you use the machine.
It is really weird that the LCD panel backlight doesn't go off in standby.
Talking of standby, I wonder what the power draw is when in this state...anyone know? I think I'm going ask Saeco that question.
The cup warmer takes a while to warm up and you have to turn it on through the menu. I won't use it for warming one cup to use for my own cup of joe, but if you were having a dinner party or something like that where you know in advance you're going to use the cups then yeah, it's kinda nice to have. Not very big but no one should complain about that right???? Why?...because, my freinds, you are buying what has been designed as a compact machine. Having said that, it comfortably will hold at least espresso cups or 4 small coffee cups. If you want a big cup warmer though go buy a hot plate.
Summary
Ok, I've only had this thing for an afternoon, but having spent only 20mins getting things setup I'm now enjoying a really nice cup of coffee (although I have had way too much of it today
. Notwithstanding the price-tag, an average owner is probably going to like this machine. And really that's why I wrote this review. I have read the comments on this forum and while some of them are really helpful (for example the settings to get a strong brew...saved me time) some others are a little on the advanced side for an average person, albeit well meant. I mean, I don't think many people are going to care that the secondary heating block is aluminum (primary block is Steel). And the time in seconds that it takes for a shot to pour is somewhat interesting but irrelevant if the product looks and tastes good. As I said though, all well meant and I'm sure there are some advanced coffee gurus out there that would find that info important. That's it for the moment. I think I will post more impressions after I've been using the machine for a month or 2. Dropping this kind of money on a coffee machine is a big deal for most folk so I'm sure that others who use this site would appreciate the unsolicited feedback on this or any other super auto machine.
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View entire thread: Starbucks to sue Haidabucks of Masset, Queen Charlotte Isle
Posted by CoffeeLover on 2003-04-22 11:22:07 Post Subject: Haidabucks Coffee Lawsuit
Welcome henkster, register for a account here so people can send you private messages about what your looking for and you can easily post. On the Haidabucks web site order page they mention how you can help out by getting the coffee cups and shirts with the Haidabucks logo on them. You can either do it by mail or credit card. More details are on their help us page.
I wondered what a HaidaBuck was, now I know:
So What's A HaidaBuck?
HaidaBucks Cafe is in Haida Gwaii territory, on one of the Queen Charlotte Islands off the northern coast of British Columbia, Canada. Located in the village of Masset, population 700, it's owned by four young members of the Haida First Nation. These young men refer to themselves as bucks. Like many Native Nations, theirs refers to young men as bucks. The four friends even played on the Haida Bucks basketball team when they were younger. That's how HaidaBucks got its name:
HaidaBucks = Haida Nation Men!
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Posted by CoffeeLover on 2003-04-22 11:22:07 Post Subject: Haidabucks Coffee Lawsuit
Welcome henkster, register for a account here so people can send you private messages about what your looking for and you can easily post. On the Haidabucks web site order page they mention how you can help out by getting the coffee cups and shirts with the Haidabucks logo on them. You can either do it by mail or credit card. More details are on their help us page.
I wondered what a HaidaBuck was, now I know:
So What's A HaidaBuck?
HaidaBucks Cafe is in Haida Gwaii territory, on one of the Queen Charlotte Islands off the northern coast of British Columbia, Canada. Located in the village of Masset, population 700, it's owned by four young members of the Haida First Nation. These young men refer to themselves as bucks. Like many Native Nations, theirs refers to young men as bucks. The four friends even played on the Haida Bucks basketball team when they were younger. That's how HaidaBucks got its name:
HaidaBucks = Haida Nation Men!
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View entire thread: Opening a coffee shop
Posted by ds40014 on 2006-01-11 11:00:03 Post Subject: Materials and Supplies
Thank you for the info!
Question: When you all started, how did you know what materials (Blenders, Espresso machines, grinders, etc.) and Supplies (Coffee, cups, lids, etc.) to get? I am going through that process now -- trying to determine what items I need for the coffee bar - sort of like putting together an inventory list for my Business Plan.
Also, I know that I can learn from your successes (and mistakes!). If you can, please advise -- I can use all the advise that you have to offer!
Thank you!
--david
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Posted by ds40014 on 2006-01-11 11:00:03 Post Subject: Materials and Supplies
Thank you for the info!
Question: When you all started, how did you know what materials (Blenders, Espresso machines, grinders, etc.) and Supplies (Coffee, cups, lids, etc.) to get? I am going through that process now -- trying to determine what items I need for the coffee bar - sort of like putting together an inventory list for my Business Plan.
Also, I know that I can learn from your successes (and mistakes!). If you can, please advise -- I can use all the advise that you have to offer!
Thank you!
--david
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View entire thread: Welcome, Introduce Yourself!
Posted by scayf on 2005-06-04 23:18:01 Post Subject: Home roasting
Hey all...another new guy here. Dave, from Austin. Got more coffee cups than sense. No, really.
I started roasting my own about a month ago (using the infamous Poppery II), ditched my whirly-blade grinder for an old Zassenhaus, and drip 'em through a 15-year-old (at least) Proctor-Silex (although I do have one of those fancy Gevalia programable thingies). I'll never drink store-bought again...
Anyway, here recently I've been hankerin' to get into making espresso. I've been reading everything I can find on the subject. Any suggestions/tips/info ya'll could give would be greatly appreciated. Seems like there's a lot of conflicting info out there. I've got a Krups Espremio coming, so I'll be stuck making single shots (unless I can find/fabricate/jerry-rig a double portafilter). This is my first try at this, and if it goes well, I'll be investing in a better machine.
Oh, the crack about the cups...I've got boxes of cups. Mostly restaurant stuff, like Shenago, Homer Laughlin, heavy-duty stuff, and some Fire-King mugs, as well as assorted creamers (the small individual glass ones and larger china pitchers). I was collecting that stuff for a while (still bag one when I run across something interesting), although my "daily drinker" is a cheapie cobalt blue 10-ounce glass mug. Four or five a day, since I've been cooking my own beans. Finally, after 30-some-odd years, fresh coffee.
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Posted by scayf on 2005-06-04 23:18:01 Post Subject: Home roasting
Hey all...another new guy here. Dave, from Austin. Got more coffee cups than sense. No, really.
I started roasting my own about a month ago (using the infamous Poppery II), ditched my whirly-blade grinder for an old Zassenhaus, and drip 'em through a 15-year-old (at least) Proctor-Silex (although I do have one of those fancy Gevalia programable thingies). I'll never drink store-bought again...
Anyway, here recently I've been hankerin' to get into making espresso. I've been reading everything I can find on the subject. Any suggestions/tips/info ya'll could give would be greatly appreciated. Seems like there's a lot of conflicting info out there. I've got a Krups Espremio coming, so I'll be stuck making single shots (unless I can find/fabricate/jerry-rig a double portafilter). This is my first try at this, and if it goes well, I'll be investing in a better machine.
Oh, the crack about the cups...I've got boxes of cups. Mostly restaurant stuff, like Shenago, Homer Laughlin, heavy-duty stuff, and some Fire-King mugs, as well as assorted creamers (the small individual glass ones and larger china pitchers). I was collecting that stuff for a while (still bag one when I run across something interesting), although my "daily drinker" is a cheapie cobalt blue 10-ounce glass mug. Four or five a day, since I've been cooking my own beans. Finally, after 30-some-odd years, fresh coffee.
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