Pasquini Livia 90 Semi Automatic Espresso Machine Review

Just one quick note: The photo above (at the time I wrote this review) is of the automatic model and not the semi-automatic model.This review is for the semi-auto model.For those who don't know, the auto model allows you to push a button and the machine will start and stop the flow of water on its own (single or double).Semi-auto means you need to turn the flow of water on and off yourself.There are also super-auto machines that grind and tamp the beans as well.

The Review: This is a serious coffee machine.It's "commercial quality" so it's heavy (almost 50lbs) and very well built.It takes up some counter space (mostly depth) but it looks elegant and is easy to keep clean.The portafilter (handle with basket for coffee) is very sturdy and fits snugly.It has a useful ready gauge and simple buttons (as noted above) for on-off and start-stop.

Now the important stuff: It makes great coffee consistently.I moved up to this machine from a Braun pump espresso machine.This one has better pressure and temperature.I used to brag about my Braun machine because it was inexpensive and made consistently good esperesso.The first shots I pulled from this machine made me realize that I didn't realize what I was missing.If you know how to make espresso, this machine lets you pull easy, consistent, and quality shots.

Another great feature of this machine is the continuous steam and hot (very hot!) water outlet.If you've ever had trouble steaming milk on machine you'll be impressed and maybe even surprised at how well this works.The machine also recovers well and quickly after you pull shots or use the steam wand.

The tanks is removable and holds a lot of water.It's easy to fill in place as well.You can leave this machine on all day if you like (it's designed to work that way) and you might want to if you're like me and drink too much coffee.The reason is that it can take a little while to warm up if it's been off for a while.That's probably the only thing I'm not fond of with this machine.First thing in the morning it can take a while to warm up (5-10 mins).This makes sense given the size and build of the machine.It simply takes time to warm up to the proper brewing temperature.However, I had gotten used to a machine that only takes a couple of minutes.So, my new morning routine includes going down to turn on the machine and coming down after my shower for my great coffee!

If you've never had a pump machine before, you may need some practice, but I think this is a good machine to learn on (due to its consistency).Just remember to follow the instructions (especially not to overfill the filter) and adjust either the grind of your coffee or the pressure of your tamping to get the desired results.

I hope this is helpful to you if you're considering this machine.I'd say it does well or better to other machines in this price range.It's a definite step up in quality and build from the machine's you'll find in the $500-1000 price range.It's a complete improvement in machine and coffee from pretty much any machine under $500.

One last comment, Pasquini has been excellent and very responsive to questions.I'm very pleased to see them here on Amazon.

Good luck with your quest for great coffee...I found it with this machine!

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Product Description:
Italy, the country that brought us the joys of espresso, savored in cafes all over the world, now brings that same fine espresso making capability to the home with Pasquini's Livia 90 Semiautomatic Espresso Machine. It's one of the most popular espresso machines for its capacity to be used equally well in the home, office, coffee bar, and restaurant and catered events. An espresso machine for discerning tastes, the Livia 90 is an investment in distinction and enjoyment for years to come. One of the finest semi-commercial espresso machines, it is loaded with features that contribute to its reputation for excellence.Borrowing from Pasquini's famous line of professional espresso machines, it is one of a select few machines of its type that can simultaneously brew coffee and steam milk, saving time and increasing the rate of drink production. These features, in addition to it NSF Sanitation Certification, (required for machines used in the foodservice industry), make it an espresso machine for all venues. Detailed Product Features Simple Semi-automatic Controls and Indicator Lights Simple to use and easy to read controls make brewing with the Livia 90 a joy. Heavy-duty rocker switches and two attractive indictor lights are conveniently located on the front of the machine. One flip of a switch gives you the green light and the power is on.

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