Starbucks Barista Home Espresso Machine - Black Graphite

A workhorse., October 9, 2007

I've used this machine almost daily for the last 6 years, and it's showing no signs of slowing down. Perfect 3 part shots every time - HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!

Built Like A Tank!!, January 25, 2008

I've had mine since April of 2005, it gets used 2 to 3 times per day, and I must say that this is the finest espresso machine I've ever used. Having come from a stove top espresso maker, to a steam driven machine and now this, I can say that for the price (I got mine for $225) this is an amazing machine. Not quite as good as the Rancilio Silvia,...read full review I've had mine since April of 2005, it gets used 2 to 3 times per day, and I must say that this is the finest espresso machine I've ever used. Having come from a stove top espresso maker, to a steam driven machine and now this, I can say that for the price (I got mine for $225) this is an amazing machine. Not quite as good as the Rancilio Silvia, but its better if you keep in mind that this machine costs half than the silvia. Makes awesome espressos. Makes plenty of crema, the presurized portafilter does not need to be tamped. I love this machine, you will too. Its very hard to go wrong with this one. Solid build quality from Saeco, made in Italy. Don't settle for a chinese steam, or entry level pump driven machine. This is the one... minimize

Workhorse, October 6, 2008

This espresso machine has been a workhorse in my house for over 3 years - used day in and day out by my caffeine obsessed husband. It makes a great cup of espresso, foams great and is not temperamental. I think he barely maintains it.
Get the black graphite as it is cheaper than the SS and looks nicer I think.

Danger - metal flakes from steam wand!, November 17, 2009

I purchased the Starbucks Barista in 2006 - during the annual Christmas Holiday Sale. Worked OK until about 5 months ago, when metal flakes started coming out of the steam wand during priming and cleaning. Now I'm afraid to use the machine at all for fear of ingesting metal flakes. Unfortunately the limited 2 year warranty is expired. I am...read full review I purchased the Starbucks Barista in 2006 - during the annual Christmas Holiday Sale. Worked OK until about 5 months ago, when metal flakes started coming out of the steam wand during priming and cleaning. Now I'm afraid to use the machine at all for fear of ingesting metal flakes. Unfortunately the limited 2 year warranty is expired. I am still a fan of Starbuck's stores in general. In spite of all the hoopla surrounding Dunkin' Donuts in the Boston area, their coffee is terrible and simply doesn't compare to some of the better Starbuck's offerings (such as Verona or Sumatra). However, I will NEVER again purchase equipment from Starbucks. Given that this is a potentially serious safety issue, the warranty call center should have at least expressed a little concern for my health and done more than point me to the nearest repair shop (with my credit card in hand). minimize