Hello, new guy here. I've been reading a bunch of articles on the site never knew how involved espresso making could be. Wow!

Anyway, I grew up in a very traditional Italian family so I have a great appreciation for a good espresso. There's nothing better than a shot of good espresso after a meal. Sometimes I can't wait for the meal to finish just so I can enjoy the espresso. I love it basically and now I want to learn how the make a good cup myself. Problem is, I have very little space in my apartment and my budget is pretty pathetic.

I know it takes a good machine and grinder to achieve the best results but I wanted to get advice from the more experienced and knowledgeable members on what would be the best setup for me. I don't need anything crazy, just a simple, affordable grinder and machine that I can use and practice on to improve my skills, and at the same time produce a decent cup of espresso for me to enjoy.

Any help would be much appreciated. Grazie.

New, I would recommend the Nemox Napoletana, which combines a very good grinder and solid home espresso machine for just under $500. This is about as low as it gets new.

Refurbed or Ebay Gaggias, Quaha, or Nemox machines and Lux and Ascaso conical grinders would also make a good minimal setup.

Would you consider a hand grinder? That should save a bit of money and space. Orphan Espresso restores vintage ones, and they have the Kyocera, a Japanese, ceramic-bladed one.

Antonio, define "affordable." It can mean something different to each of us. Also, while you're at it, define your usage pattern -- you only mention "espresso," and nothing about steaming milk for a cappuccino or latte.

I know nothing about the Nemox Napoletana, but I've come to trust Jim Schulman's recommendations, so I would indeed take a serious look at this machine. FWIW, it "sounds" good when reading the specs on the website, but that's all I know about it, so take that with the proverbial grain of salt. Also, I'm personally somewhat cautious about machines that have a built-in grinder -- if one thing breaks, you're out two machines. That said, $469 for a new machine and a grinder is pretty hard to beat. You can always call Jim Piccinich at 1st-Line; he is a very reliable, trustworthy vendor in my experience, and he's never steered me wrong.

Sticking with new equipment, another possibility to consider for an espresso machine is the Le'Lit PL041 ($299 on sale); this could be paired with the Le'Lit PL053 Grinder ($269 on sale) for a very workable combination.

Just another person seconding Jim's suggestion of the LaPavoni Napolitana. You are still better off with a separate quality grinder and refurb pump machine Gaggia, Saeco,Starbucks, Estro, DeLonghi EC series with stainless steel boiler and without coffee maker.
Cheers
-Richard

I've never liked the idea of an espresso machine and grinder in one unit.

If for no other reason than espresso machines get pretty hot, and heat is not good for coffee beans.