Buzz
Since my days working with Martha Stewart, I've admired the large, gleaming espresso machine in the office each morning, dreaming of owning one. I envisioned becoming an adult with a spacious kitchen, making smooth, crema-topped espresso shots daily. But here I am in my 40s, still living in a cozy 400-square-foot apartment, and the espresso machine of my dreams would take up my entire counter. (Let's not even get into how pricey those machines are.)
Despite this, I still enjoy crema-topped espresso shots every morning, thanks to a compact device I found that costs under $130. Allow me to introduce my favorite gadget: the Picopresso, an espresso maker about the size of a tennis ball. Here's how it works: You measure 16-18 grams of coffee beans, grind them to the right fineness (instructions are crystal clear), transfer the coffee into the Picopresso, tamp it down, screw it together, add boiling water, and pump a few times until espresso begins to flow. If your water boils quickly, the entire process takes just 5 minutes, and cleaning up only requires you to disassemble a few parts, rinse them off, and let them dry. Click here to watch me show the process. (Full disclosure: There are a few extra steps if you’re particular. For all the details, watch this video.) The Picopresso, made by Wacaco, is the latest in their portable espresso maker line (its simpler predecessor is the Nanopresso). Though designed for camping or travel, it works just as well at home, particularly in small spaces. The Picopresso costs $130 and requires a bit more precision, delivering a superior espresso, while the Nanopresso, priced at $70, is simpler, still making a great shot of espresso.
Want one? You'll join many of my friends who’ve been convinced to get one. Below is a list of models and accessories that can give you an amazing tiny-living espresso experience.
1. Wacaco Picopresso portable espresso maker
2. Wacaco Nanopresso portable espresso maker
The Wacaco Exagrind manual coffee grinder is a perfect companion for those who enjoy grinding their own beans. This grinder offers precision and control with a design that allows you to manually grind your coffee beans for a fresh brew every time.
The Fellow Stagg electric gooseneck kettle is a top-tier option for brewing precision. It combines sleek design with advanced functionality, making it the go-to kettle for pour-over enthusiasts.
Any kettle will do the job, but the Fellow Stagg electric gooseneck kettle stands out for its speed and precision. Available in multiple colors, it features a walnut handle and technology like temperature control and an LCD screen. It even keeps water hot for an hour!
Promising review: "Fantastic product. Been using it for several months. For most tea or coffee drinkers, lesser products will do, but if you are fussy about your tea/coffee and value knowing exact temps, whisper-quiet operation, and just beautiful operation, this one is for you." —Sunshine2011
It’s available on Amazon for $165+, with different colors and styles to choose from.
