Serving a group with a smaller machine v high end

[kingswood]

Hi all,

Im new here and thanks to CS member who upgraded and the wonderful information I am making significantly much better coffee than I ever had. I am currently using a Gaggia Classic and I knew before I purchased it that the smaller machines would be stretched when serving more than 2 people. I find I can serve 4 people by keeping the shots submerged in boiling water. Anything after 4 the steamer needs significantly more time to heat up again.

My questions below:
Any tips you can share?
If I was to upgrade how long would it take to serve 6 lattes from a Giotto or Vibiemme from start to finish?


thanks in advance

[askthecoffeeguy]

Re: Serving a group with a smaller machine v high

I reckon I could serve six lattes from my Bezzera Domus Galatea in under 2 minutes no problem!

[Thundergod]

Re: Serving a group with a smaller machine v high

I believe steaming the milk will take the most time in preparing 6 lattes from smaller machines.

I daresay my Expobar would probably do the same as ATCGs Bezzera.

If we were racing Id pull out a second PF.

[kingswood]

Re: Serving a group with a smaller machine v high

thx for the above.

I guess this all making my push for an upgrade a little bit sooner. When I purchased the Classic I wasnt so popular but now I get drop ins from family members & friends. Dont get me wrong I love my Classic...mmm decisions decisions

[Sullo]

Re: Serving a group with a smaller machine v high

get a 2nd hand commercial
its amazing how many friends neighbours etc decide your on their Christmas card list when you get one, since Abbey the Azkoyens rebuild Ive become more popular plus making serveral drinks at once isnt a prob, sure Im pprobably using more power but whats the price you pay for something you roast/blend/brew yourself?
Considering setting up the 3 group in the patio area we are building at present, howd that be for a barbie!
Which reminds me Ive got pavers to lay

[DiBort]

Re: Serving a group with a smaller machine v high

Hey Patrick,

6 lattes under 2 min is pretty impressive!

I believe the ability to pull multiple shots one after the other without compromising on quality has a lot to do with how well prepared you are in advance. If you grind your coffee for few shots, have your milk ready to go, cups are warmed properly and all other gadgets are in stand by, you should be achieving this volume with almost any HX machine.

Kingwood, if you are in Sydney we have all these machines in our store ready to be operated. Youre welcome to drop by and see how each brand / model copes with such a busy scenario.

Regards, Renzo


Yo

[kingswood]

Re: Serving a group with a smaller machine v high

thanks Renzo.

In Melbourne counting my coin put a good case forward for an upgrade. The upgrade will probably happen early next year.

[askthecoffeeguy]

Re: Serving a group with a smaller machine v high

heres a tip for you: have a freshly boiled kettle on hand and preheat your cups with water from the jug - that way you wont interfere with or slow down your coffee machine, and, if youre clever, you can heat all the cups in a single pour!

Cheers.

Pat

[lucinda]

Re: Serving a group with a smaller machine v high

Kingswood - the best way to serve more than 4 is to top up the water reservoir between shots. I pull my shots first, than I steam the milk, that way the steam button is constantly on and keeps the temp /steam up.

Most people dont really mind waiting for a good coffee and once you really get the hang of it you should be able to get 6 coffees out in about 5 minutes.

[aedion]

Re: Serving a group with a smaller machine v high

If we were racing Id pull out a second PF.

Ah wise man

I think your on to something!

[lucinda]

Re: Serving a group with a smaller machine v high

My second PF is with a friend having a new handle made. He will be carving it out of wood. Will be interesting to see what he comes up with as all I requested was something that would fit comfortably in my hand.

No idea when I will get it back though.