Best Espresso Machine for Small Business in 2024 [Hassle Free]

We could not but imagine a small coffee shop without the bustling of people, rush-order serial, and the enchanting aroma of freshly brewed coffee. And to carry on the hectic job, you need to bring sturdy hardware. And the espresso machine is going to be the ruler here. The days are gone when the waiters were serving coffee from jugs. Now the time is for brewing coffee by the rugged appliances.

Whether going for the introductory espresso machine for your small business or searching for a robust device for your already established business, choosing the right one is vital.

We have done some deep digging research and rounded up the best espresso machine for small business for you to lessen your pressure.

BEST AUTOMATIC OR VOLUMETRIC

JURA GIGA 6 Automatic

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• Automatic system
• Dual thermoblock heating system
• Touchscreen Display
• Energy save mode
• 28 drink choices and blue crystal rotary switch
• Comes with 2 grinders
• Dual hoppers
• Dual pumps and dual fluid systems.

This Portable commercial espresso machine is equipped to deal with the demands of small shops. This model brings a futuristic flair to any countertop. This professional machine is brimming with the latest technology for outstanding results.

BEST OVERALL & SEMI AUTOMATIC

Nuova Simonelli Appia II Semi-Auto 1 Group

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• 1500 watt heater
• Two portafilters – one double and one single
• Semiautomatic configuration
• Soft-pre infusion system
• Built-in rotary pump
• Long and stainless steel swivel steam arm
• Five-liter boiler
• Raised group heads
• Comes in black, red, white

If you are looking for innovation in your best espresso machine for small coffee shop, you should have this one. The device is a combination of durability, versatility, functionality, and beauty. Your cafe can nurture a consistent reputation in the world of espresso with this model.

BEST AUTOMATIC WITH MANUAL DOSING OPTION

La Pavoni Bar-Star 2V-R 2

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• Programmable and automatic features of coffee dosing and hot water delivery.
• Dual Pressure Gauge
• 4 Volume Settings per Group
• Electronic Automatic Water Level Control with Sight Glass
• One Flexible Steam Jet with Anti-drip Spring Taps
• Two Steam Wands
• Water Softener
• Two Steam Wands
• Telescopic Side Handles
• Internal Electric Pump

If you want an advanced level commercial coffee machine, this one is for you. This will exceptionally suit businesses of all sizes. This worthwhile device features a nice digital control pad for easy user-interface. You can entertain your customers with various types of beverages, starting from espresso to milk texture drinks.

BEST  POUR-OVER AND DIRECT-CONNECT

Nuova Simonelli Musica Pour Over Tank Version Lux

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• Pour-over model with a removable water tank
• Commercial Sirai pressurestat
• Heat exchange boiler with vacuum breaker valve
• Digital automatic dosing with electronic pre-infusion
• All-metal body construction
• Polished chrome face Cup Tray
• Scoop, 2 portafilter handles, blank filter basket, tamper,
• 2-liter energy-saving heat exchanger boiler
• Has a soundproof pump and insulated boiler with an exchanger

This model is designed for professional baristas and coffee lovers with big expectations. The thermo-compensated group, automatic dosing, and steaming system are derived from larger, professional devices.

Types of Espresso Machines for Small Business

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Before going any further, you need to familiarize yourself with the typesof commercial espresso machines. The clear concept about the differences among the types will surely help you make the best decision. The followings are the most common –

Automatic and Volumetric

This type is best considered for busy shops and for delivering the same quality drinks every single time. These appliances dose the water in the cups by themselves and finish the extraction cycle with the right water volume. The baristas only need to press a button at the time of pulling the shots.

The benefits of having these automatic devices are – they are user-friendly and quite fast in delivering unwavering quality. The drawback is you cannot show your creativity for the automation.

Semiautomatic

This type goes with the experts because they can have more control over it and show their excellence. The device comes with various buttons, and you get to select when to begin and when to end. The disadvantage of having this type is these appliances are generally slower than the automatic ones. And the quality can vary according to the skills of the user.

Automatic dosing with manual dosing options

This type combines the aspects of both automatic and semiautomatic espresso devices. This one possesses manual dosing so that you can take the benefit of programmable options. Again, for the fast delivery at the rush-hour, this one comes with pre-programmed options too. Now, anyone with any level of skills can operate this type. But the thing is they generally have a hefty price tag.

Pour over and direct-connect

Pour over means the water receptacle will be manually refilled when it is depleted. The advantage of having a pour-over model is it can be placed anywhere. The drawback is you need to take some time to refill the container and use your water softener.

The next one is a direct connect machine, which is appropriate for the commercial place. This one will be hooked up to a water line. So, the receptacle will be restocked automatically.

How does an Espresso Machine work?

There are various parts in one device. Let’s take a look at the working process –

Water Source and Pump

The machines need a water source to function. The water can enter either from a water reservoir or a plumbed connection for consistent water supply. Generally, a highly used professional device requires a piped source, while the reservoir is adequate for small volumes.

The water needs pressure to reach the condensed coffee puck. 9 bars or 130 psi of pressure is quite appropriate. Modern espresso models feature two common types of the pump; the vibratory pump and the rotary pump.

Boiler

The boiler adds heat to the pressurized water. It is crucial to heat the water properly to get optimized extraction.

Professional models come with a double boiler system. They have one boiler for brewing and the other one for using with a steam wand. Water for brewing needs to be heated up at 93°C, and for steam, it needs to be heated up at 100°C. A double boiler system solves this problem of different temperature needs.

Again, there are proportional-integral-derivative Controllers (PID) or digital temperature controllers in the machine. They remain connected with the heating elements and helps to control the temperature more accurately.

Steam Wand

The steam wand is a thin metal nozzle that releases steam from the hot one of two boilers through the pipe directly into the milk. This steam adds texture to the milk.

The Group Head and Portafilter

The group head brings the water into contact with a compacted puck of coffee. There are saturated, and semi saturated Group Heads. The portafilter is the metal filter basket that holds the coffee grinds. Group Head includes a portafilter lock, a pressure switch, and a valve to allow water to move from boiler to portafilter.

Finally, after all these steps, you get your cup of joe!

Best Espresso Machine for Small Business

01. Nuova Simonelli Aurelia Ii Digital 4 Group – Best Overall

When you are the owner of your busy cafe shop that sells a lot of coffee every day, Nuova Simonelli Aurelia II will be the best addition to your store. The professional baristas will be delighted to have this best espresso machine for catering, as this device will surely make life much more comfortable.

This one is our top pick for its versatile features and excellent efficiency. The mighty model comes with a 22 Liter boiler, which assures a large quantity quickly. This multifunctional model can serve you from regular espresso to lattes, cappuccino.

It is awarded as the official machine of the World Barista Championship in 2012 and 2014. And this beast is solely certified espresso machine as ergonomic by the European Institute of Psychology and Ergonomics.

This one comes with programmable milk temperature, programmable on/off settings, self-diagnosis, and preset counter.

The soft infusion system (the better alternative of the pre-infusion system) helps to brew the high-quality coffee by consistent training.

Suggestions

This appliance could be a luxurious choice as a commercial coffee machine for small cafe. So, if you have constraints in your budget, you can go for Nuova Simonelli Aurelia II Volumetric 2 Group.

Who should buy it?

If you are among those who want to have control over everything – volume, temperature, the intensity of your cup of joe, and all others, you should have this one. You can always maintain the high quality of your coffee with its consistent tamping options. So, without any further ado, purchase this best commercial espresso machine.

02. JURA GIGA 6 Automatic – Best for Automatic or Volumetric

The JURA GIGA 6 Commercial automatic espresso machine is the best dualboiler espress machine 2020 with cutting-edge features like artificial intelligence, two thermoblocks, two hoppers, two grinders, and more. This professional device is brimming with the latest technology for outstanding results. So, the tech-savvy users can enjoy the 28 specialties with little to no effort.

There is a lot under the hood: first comes the machine type. From grinding beans to pouring finished product in the cup, all things have been taken care of by the device. So, you can maintain the uniformity in every cup of joe.

Each of the removable hoppers holds 20 oz beans. The pulse extraction process is configured to guarantee every espresso is aromatic, and you can have a delightful sip in no time. The dual thermoblock system is there to froth your milk and brew your coffee at the same time. The energy-saving mode is there to save a few bucks on your electricity bills.

You can use the device remotely with the free J.O.E app with your smartphone.

A Tip: Since this one is automatic, customization is limited. So, if you want to show creativity, you can go for the semiautomatic versions.

Its parallel preparation creates two full drinks simultaneously. And its artificial intelligence learns which drinks are your favorite and shows those drinks more specifically to ease your selection. JURA has done some serious detailing, we must say!

Who should buy it?

This Portable commercial espresso machine is equipped to deal with the demands of small shops. This model brings a futuristic flair to any countertop. This iconic new automatic machine radiates sturdiness for its 3mm-thick aluminum body and chrome-plated, die-cast zinc cover.

03. Nouva Simonelli Appia II – Best for Semiautomatic

If you are looking for the best coffee machine for cafe with the best technology, Nouva Simonelli Appia should be on your list. The credit goes to its innovative infusion system, hydraulic, and thermal compensated systems.

It provides perfect creamy coffee shots every single time. It comes with a 5L boiler with a 1500 watt heater. You don’t have to take the burden of manual pouring as you can do direct plumbing with drain.

The compact design goes with everyplace and is perfect for your limited space. The professional baristas are fond of semiautomatic features. It gives you greater control over espresso production, and the user has complete control over the beginning and end of the process. So, you can enjoy the analog experience without going fully manual.

The copper heat exchange boiler is quite energy-efficient. The smart wand makes frothed milk with just a touch of a button and automatically shuts-off at the current temperature.

This best 110v commercial espresso machine comes with a raised group head to fit in large cups right underneath.

This model breezes through the lines of orders by its push-pull steam levers. The self-cleansing system is a cherry on the top. So, it will be a low-maintenance model for your restaurant.

Suggestion

This model may not seem compatible with the excessive busy shops. So, you can have a look at Nuova Simonelli Appia II Volumetric 2 Group

A Tip: Since it comes with direct plumbing with drain, check out the water line before purchasing it.

Who should buy it?

If you are looking for innovation in your best espresso machine for small coffee shop, you should have this one. The device is a combination of durability, versatility, functionality, and beauty. Your cafe can nurture a consistent reputation in the world of espresso with this model.

04. La Pavoni Bar-Star 2V-R 2-Group Volumetric – Best for Automatic with Manual Dosing Options

This machine is a superb option for its superior quality and outstanding performance at coffee shops, cafes, small businesses, etc.

This worthwhile device features a nice digital control pad for easy user-interface. You can entertain your customers with various types of beverages, starting from espresso to milk texture drinks. The microprocessor control with electronic programmable dosing is up to the mark. So, you can set the water dosing in advance. And while the machine is doing its job for you, you can focus on other tasks.

This appliance comes with an auto-shutoff safety feature. So, now you don’t have to worry about any wastage.

The dual-head configuration is quite excellent for its press-forged brass and chrome plated design, with a perpendicular liquid chamber and pressurization system.

Thanks to its innovative anti-vacuum valve for preventing the liquid from getting into the steam wand during frothing. Moreover, this will save time for cleaning by avoiding clogs from happening.

Pre-infusion removes any room for error by setting the coffee with a gentle flow of water before extraction. So, the beginners can easily avoid mistakes while tamping espresso. The water quality won’t hold you back for its free water softener.

Suggestion

Albeit this one is a bit pricey, this one speaks of versatility. However, you can have a look at La Pavoni BAR-T 2V-R Commercial 2 Group Volumetric

A Tip: You can easily save energy and electrical cost with its excellent dual-position power saver switch. And you can use it in both ¾ power mode during off-hours and on a full energy mode.

Who should buy it?

If you want an advanced level commercial coffee machine, this one is for you. This will exceptionally suit businesses of all sizes. So, what are you waiting for? Grab the star of your countertop!

05. Nuova Simonelli Musica Pour Over Tank Version – Best for Pour- over

This new model is the frontrunner in the appliance genre. This one will illuminate the workspace with advanced features like programmable pre-infusion, pull-push steam, and an adjustable water spigot. So, you don’t need to look for another choice for making Americanos or teas.

We are enticed by its lucrative features. The thermo-compensated group circulates the water nonstop, and the temperature is kept at stable levels. So, there is no chance of cold pockets.

The ergonomic push-pull lever design is for doing the task effortlessly. The baristas can check the pressure in the boiler through an easy to read visible pressure gauge. You can get perfect foam by articulating the steam wand. The shining LED lights are there to see everything clearly.

You can enjoy all the high-end aspects within a reasonable price. You can brew espressos and froth the milk simultaneously with its 2-liter heat exchanger boiler. Since it automatically stops the brewing, it is suitable for the novices to create brews without any fuss. The vacuum breaker value is a cherry on top as it allows the machine to start from room temperature. To top it all off, the model is stunningly beautiful with its all-metal body, polished face, and cup tray.

Suggestion

If the size seems smaller than your expectations, you can go for 2/3/4 groups.

A Tip: Since it cannot be directly connected to the waterline, you can have a look Nuova Simonelli Musica Direct Connect Version Black.

Who should buy it?

If you want an advanced level commercial coffee machine, this one is for you. This will exceptionally suit businesses of all sizes. So, what are you waiting for? Grab the star of your countertop!

What to Know Before Buying an Espresso Machine for Small Business

The commercial espresso machines are highly recommended for a small café or coffee shop, and the sole purpose is to serve a massive crowd of coffee lovers. It can make a high-quality brew with perfect consistency within a few minutes. Unlike your homeboy, it can impress any crowd and cut through the rush.

Now, to buy the best espresso machine for small business, you need to keep a couple of things in mind. These include:

Semi-Automatic vs. Automatic:

There was a time when you had to make the perfect coffee with much precision and hard work. However, an automatic espresso machine came as a blessing to save you time and labor. It also allows you to serve more people at a time. When you and your barista are pulling shot after shot with ease, high-grade quality is the comfort this machine will provide you. You do not need to grind or tamp the beans or mark the perfect consistency for a flawless shot. There is no need for a winded training session for your baristas, either. In other words, it is a smarter choice.

Semi-automatic comes when you want to serve a limited number of people or when you appreciate working manually. This will allow you to control the consistency of each brew. It also lets the customers take a sip of your touch of craft.

Capacity:

While a commercial coffee machine, you need to choose wisely as per the capacity. Now, what does the capacity depend on? It depends on the scale of your business – The number of people you are serving, the number of people working inside your kitchen, and its size. It also depends on the boiler capacity. The factors that control the capacity are marked below:

Size of the machine:

When you are planning on serving hundreds of people, you will need a giant model. However, bigger is not always better. It must have the capacity to fit into your kitchen. A large one is also more expensive and needs more space. If a smaller version can achieve your work, then opt for it. Nevertheless, if you think you and your barista team can handle the big ones, you could buy it also. The choice is yours.

Group head:

The group head usually indicates the number of baristas that can work in your kitchen simultaneously. When you look for a commercial model, make sure that you check out the group head. Some come in 2, 3, or even 4 group heads. Usually, per group head can make 2 cups at a time. Albeit the more massive machine can operate with more group heads, you need to keep the kitchen’s size in mind. If you have enough space to fit it, then it’s great.

Boiler capacity:

To choose the right coffee machine for café, you need to keep this mind. The boiler must be big enough to hold sufficient hot water that could last peak hour. The size of the boiler depends on the group head. So, if you have a large group head, you will get a large boiler capacity.

Maintenance:

First of all, while buying an espresso device, keep the warranty in mind. It must be durable as well. Usually, cleaning is mandatory for your model. When you get an automatic model, it cleans itself. But you cannot detach the group heads. Thus, you cannot clean it thoroughly.

However, a semi-automatic model can be detached and replaced when needed. You also get the privilege to deep clean it for a healthier experience.

How to Clean the Espresso Coffee Machine?

It is vital to clean the coffee machine regularly to enjoy a tastier coffee. Because, if you don’t wash your device regularly, bitter oils can be left behind. And it can make the coffee taste bitter.

Back Wash

If you use the device regularly, you have to backwash your machine once a month.

• Insert the blind filter into the portafilter.
• Fill up the water reservoir appropriately.
• Run the hot water into it. The water is going to release in the drip tray like the espresso.
• Add some cleaner in the portafilter. Repeat this several times.
• And again, wash with clean water several times so that the detergent gets washed away.

Cleaning the Basket

The basket can be removed from the portafilter easily with the help of a teaspoon. Please give it a good scrub after removing it.

Washing the Shower Brush and Steam Wand

Wash the shower head by brush. It can contain some oil. You can remove these from the surface easily.

You need to clean the steam wand after every use by wiping with a dry cloth. It will save the milk from being burnt out. It isn’t easy to clean the surface. Some espresso brush may contain a pin that can clean the wand correctly.

FAQs

Final Words

No matter how small your cafe is, you need to serve the best quality cup of espresso to your customers. So, the first step of delivering the best cup of joe is to have the best espresso machine for small business. And the machine is one of the most significant investments for your cafe. So, you need to analyze your business’s necessities, fix the budget, and buy the device that will best accommodate your daily endeavors! Let us know which model is your favorite!

Happy caffeinating!