Why are cafes surrounding espresso machines with glass?

#1: Post by **Roasty** » June 5th, 2016, 3:37 am

I saw the new Equator cafe . . .

http://sprudge.com/equator-coffee-larkspur-100566.html

I've noticed this trend a lot in the last few years, to enclose the espresso machine with glass on three sides. Is this just an aesthetic trend or is there a reason people are doing this?

#2: Post by MB » June 5th, 2016, 3:51 am

Assuming the shot below it was taken more recently (due to more menu boards in background and decal added to machine) it looks like they removed the glass surround. More engaging without it, to my eye.

#3: Post by **frank828** » June 5th, 2016, 4:04 am

health department...

June 5th, 2016, 3:16 pm

Essentially this ^

More and more, every time you hear of a small food service (coffee) start-up, you hear the endless battle with the health department and air quality resource boards over things like roasters exhaust and food safety issues for the former. In the recent Sprudge article on PublicUs in Las Vegas, the owners mentioned the same struggle, trying to prove to inspectors that espresso machines in almost all cafes don't have or need sneeze guards.

Cat & Cloud is trying to finish their build out for their new roastery in Santa Cruz and is dealing with essentially the same thing, convincing the air quality government inspectors that the cooling tray on the roaster doesn't require a separate hood.

I pity the folks who try to actually start a business in this state.