Coffee isn’t just a drink we enjoy amidst our usual plans. No, around here coffee is sometimes the entire plan. We’ve had coffee dates with friends that lasted entire mornings where we start at a coffeehouse, take a long walk together while enjoying our coffees, and many times we need a second cup before we say goodbye. Here at Rave & Review we’ve tried so many coffee brewers over the last 18+ years, but I finally found the perfect all-in-one solution with the AMZCHEF Espresso Machine that has its own integrated bean grinder and can brew hot or cold.
What I love about the AMZCHEF Espresso Machine with Grinder
A big thank you to AMZCHEF for sending the AMZCHEF Espresso Machine to try out. No monetary compensation was received for this Rave Review.
The first thing I fell in love with is the fact that the AMZCHEF Espresso Machine is all-in-one, which is so much better than making space for an espresso machine, a separate bean grinding machine, AND a milk frother. Not only is one complete unit space-saving, it’s also better looking on a countertop, it’s cheaper than buying three separate machines, and it’s simply more functional. Having all the different steps in the same machine allows you to dial in your preferences better because all the functions are designed to work together seamlessly. And, in the case of the AMZCHEF Espresso Machine, it also adds so many functions we never dreamed of with our old espresso maker.
44 adjustable grind settings for precision brewing
We’ve never had an integrated bean grinder in our espresso machine, so this addition is probably our favorite feature. With 44 grind settings, it allows precise control over each cup of coffee, depending upon your specific brew. From ultra-fine espresso, French press, pour-over, cold brew, and more, you can grind your beans perfectly with a simple twist of a dial. If you don’t already know what your preferences are, you will love that the manual walks you through each option so you aren’t blindly choosing grind settings. If you’re one that doesn’t love reading manuals or poring over bean grinding charts, you will also love that the AMZCHEF Espresso Machine was even clearly marked with recommended grind options for espresso straight out of the box.
190℉–201℉ precision temperature control
You can adjust brewing temperature easily on the electronic touchscreen from 190℉ to 201℉ for different coffee beans and roast levels. This allows you to achieve the perfect temperature for your specific beans and gives you 100% control over how your coffee is brewed.
If you’re uncertain what temperature you prefer, you can start with the recommended temperature settings in the manual and then adjust as you see fit. I love that you don’t need to be an expert from your first brew and that you can easily change things up as you’d like. This makes it perfect for those just getting started as well as for my husband who sees making the perfect cup of coffee as a fun science project.
Cold brew mode
Now you can enjoy smooth cold brew in minutes with the AMZCHEF Espresso Machine. Never again spend days making cold brew coffee when you can now do it with one simple touch of a button. Since cold brew is how we get through the afternoon, I love having an option of brewing it on demand instead of having a lengthy process to create it and then having to store it in the refrigerator.
Powerful steam wand for microfoam milk
If you haven’t made the switch already, having an integrated milk frother with your espresso machine is key. The AMZCHEF Espresso Machine is equipped with an 8mm stainless steel adjustable steam wand and 1350W heating system to easily steam milk just the way you like it. You can create silky microfoam frothed milk in just a minute for the perfect latte, cappuccino, macchiato, or flat white. For those whose drink of choice is cocoa or simply steamed milk, you can create deliciously microfoamed hot drinks, even without the coffee.
For a truly premium café experience you can practice your hand at some milk foam art for topping your drinks. But, even if you don’t excel at milk art, you can still get a creamy, textured milk to take your drinks to the next level. I’m nowhere near ready to take my milk foam art public, but I do like making a random foam heart for the kids now and again.
The one thing I wish is that the AMZCHEF Espresso Machine came with a stainless-steel milk frothing pitcher. Our pitcher that we already had was not a great fit for the machine, which meant that we had to hold it at an awkward angle the entire time it was frothing. We’re going to try a few others for size, but it would be nice to know how tall of a pitcher they recommend based on the height and angle of the wand.
Smart touch screen & one-touch brewing
The IMD HD display shows grind time, brew time, and temperature clearly so you can quickly perfect your drink. One-touch operation simplifies coffee making for those who are just starting out making espresso and allows pro-level baristas to quickly and easily customize each cup of coffee.
Large capacity water tank
The 60oz water tank allows for less refilling, which I love because I never remember the refill the tank. We at one point had a single cup brewer that needed to be refilled with water before every single brew and it just about killed me. Having to keep a pitcher handy while even making two drinks just felt ridiculous. But, with the AMZCHEF Espresso Machine, we can brew multiple cups for multiple days without even thinking about refilling the tank.
Easy maintenance design
The water tray is easy to empty whenever it gets full, and it’s easy to wipe down or clean whenever it needs it. And, the integrated descaling function helps with long-term performance by flushing the brew head and steam wand. Keeping your espresso machine in tip top shape is as simple as possible, which I love.
The AMZCHEF Espresso Machine is consistently delicious
All of the above is great and all, but if the coffee’s no good than none of this really matters, right? Well, thankfully the coffee is good. Really good. Even from the very first brew, the AMZCHEF Espresso Machine produced rich and well-extracted espresso with a consistent crema that tasted so much smoother than other espresso machines. I’ve tried fancy espresso machines, all sorts of different coffee makers, and I’ve frequented many a coffee shop, but I still prefer the AMZCHEF. In fact, we did a blind taste test between the AMZCHEF Espresso Machine and our trusty old espresso maker and I chose the AMZCHEF every single time.
Bottom line
I love that the AMZCHEF is just like the professional café machines that could make anyone feel like a barista, but without the hefty price tag. With its sleek, stainless-steel appearance it will earn its spot on your counter and be used daily. And, since it’s all-in-one, that spot on the counter will be substantially smaller than three stand-alone units would be. I also love that it comes with a heavy-weight wood and metal tamper, two brewing portafilters, grinding guard to avoid spills, and coffee scoop and more, I only wish it also came with a brewing cup and a milk frothing jug.
To buy
You can purchase the AMZCHEF espresso machine from Amazon through the AMZCHEF storefront.