Notice the machines at cafes. They are typically on a higher than usual counter. In my previous digs, I had my La Spaziale on platform raised about 8" above the counter. A pleasure to work with at that height. Now I prop up a small mirror when I bother with it. With some eye training, you can accomplish the same sense of the pour by watching as it hits the cup.

Martin wrote:Notice the machines at cafes. They are typically on a higher than usual counter.

Yes, now that you've mentioned it they are typically higher than usual. What I hate at cafes is how they are "hiding" behind their machines and you can't see what they are doing. In Italy the machines are usually against the far wall and you tend to have a better view.

Been a little while since Ive posted, but I thought Id mention that I too use a mirror when I use the bottomless portafilter.

The mirror I have is from this very old vintage travel shaving kit I found. Works great. Imagine a compact makeup thing, without the makeup. Works great, and I don't need to kneel down anymore.

I did order one of those mirrors from EPNW, BUUUT, I didn't read the size properly, so I now have a mirror large enough for a 2group machine. Been meaning to trim it to size.. but you know how that goes.

JmanEspresso wrote:I did order one of those mirrors from EPNW, BUUUT, I didn't read the size properly, so I now have a mirror large enough for a 2group machine. Been meaning to trim it to size.. but you know how that goes.

As cpreston did, you might want use a hacksaw to trim it down to a reasonable size. Then with the remainder cut it into similar sizes and offer them to fellow HBers for a reasonable price. I'd probably buy one!

Not a bad idea!

Ill see if I can do that actually.. It'd be nice to have a mounted mirror on the machine, thats for sure.