Recent content by Saraluna

I researched for ages before deciding to buy Silvia, and my family all chipped in for it, though I must admit I think they were a little flummoxed that it was what I wanted. After having some superb espresso in nyc, namely a flat white at Culture Espresso, I set out to make something really good...

Is this the same machine? Baratza Virtuoso Preciso Conical Burr Coffee Grinder | eBay The Silvia was a joint xmas gift from my whole family.

Hi "PinkRose", This kind of grinder looks very much like what I'm seeking. However, coffeegeek seems of the opinion that it is not suited to espresso. :/

Thank you. Not sure if I want a hand grinder, since I'm barely up to the laborious task of using the Silvia when I first get up (heh...NOT a morning person...) I'm looking at all your suggestions!

I know what you mean about the indent. My shots are not quite long enough with the blade grinder, it's true, but not as bad as 5 seconds haha. Closer to 20-25. Thank you for the suggestions!

Ok, I've had a Rancilio Silvia for almost a year now, and I love it. But I've been using a crappy blade grinder and I gather from the internet that espresso quality has a lot to do with your grinder. I'd like to get the Rocky, based on what I've read, but unfortunately $300 is way out of my...

is there a temp at which you recommend sticking the wand down in?

I agree, but I think for many people that starbucks' appeal is convenience rather than quality. If you've ever been to NYC, they're scarcely two blocks apart (however, nyc also boasts many excellent indie coffeeshops). For someone strapped for time, as so many Americans are, starbucks is...

That makes no sense to me - brand loyalty for me would have to imply a brand I think performs well in all areas, and consequently that I would it recommend to other people. shadow, I've been producing some (imo) pretty good foam. It is thick but the bubbles are incredibly tiny. However, it is...

re: shadow, doesn't taste come into play there though? I know people who like coffee that I think tastes like crap. It baffles me, but that's the way it is. Doing things well goes a long way towards producing something of quality, but enjoyment of that seems subjective in my experience. You...

I usually stop when the the thermometer is around 140. The espresso is delicious. I just ordered some online from a roastery in my state, but too far to drive, so I'm looking forward to tasting it. I think I will be saving up for a better grinder, though.

I have been using a thermometer (not digital, though). I usually turn the knob before it reaches 155-160 because it takes a bit to "catch up". I can smell/taste when the milk scalds, which I was doing at the beginning since i wasn't watching temp close enough as I focused on technique. Lately...

Oh, also. I am using the 20oz with much greater success than I thought possible. I mostly want another pitcher for the pointed spout, as I'd eventually like to try for latte art. I'm still doing the 1/3 amount, I'm amazed how high the milk rises when you foam it. My first foaming today, it...

I watched the soapy water technique and some other videos, very helpful. You're right pug, I don't think I was submerging the steam tip before turning the steam on (d'oh). I've had great success today. Shadow is definitely right about the "perfect" part, but I feel I am improving slightly every...

The pitcher I'm using now is too large. I think 20oz. I'm getting a 12oz soon. I usually fill the pitcher up about 2/3. I try to keep the tip just a bit below the surface, angle the pitcher slightly. The full steam still causes issues, whilst I know lower steam pressure isn't giving me the...