When it comes to running a small cafe, finding the right espresso machine can make all the difference. The best espresso machine for a small cafe combines efficiency, quality, and compact design to meet the needs of a bustling environment. Whether you’re serving a steady stream of coffee enthusiasts or just starting out, having a reliable machine is essential.
In a small cafe setting, space is often limited, so it’s crucial to choose an espresso machine that delivers professional results without overwhelming your counter space. The right machine should offer a balance of functionality and size, ensuring you can handle customer demand while maintaining a tidy workspace.
Espresso machines for small cafes come in various models, each with unique features tailored to different needs. From high-end options with advanced technology to budget-friendly choices, there’s a perfect fit for every establishment.
Top Products:
Best Overall Espresso Machine for Small Cafe
Breville Barista Touch
- Consistently makes delicious coffee
- User-friendly touchscreen interface
- Automatic frother simplifies milk preparation
- Stylish and well-constructed
- Good investment value
Best Value for Money Espresso Machine
De’Longhi Magnifica Evo
- Easy to use and operate
- Makes excellent coffee and espresso
- Compact size fits kitchen well
- Quiet operation during brewing
- Good value for the features offered
Best Compact Espresso Machine for Small Cafe
Breville Bambino Plus
- Great espresso quality and flavor
- Compact size fits well in kitchens
- Easy to use for beginners
- Quick heat-up time saves waiting
- Manual frothing offers versatility
By selecting a top-rated espresso machine, you’ll enhance your cafe’s service quality and ensure that each cup of coffee meets the high standards your customers expect.
Quick Shopping Tips
Size and Footprint: For a small cafe, space efficiency is key. Look for a compact espresso machine that fits comfortably on your counter without sacrificing performance. Ensure it has enough capacity to handle your expected volume without overcrowding.
Performance and Features: Opt for an espresso machine that offers consistent brewing quality. Features like a built-in grinder, programmable settings, and steam wands for frothing milk can enhance your coffee offerings. Consider machines with multiple group heads if you need to serve several customers simultaneously.
Build Quality and Durability: Invest in a machine made from high-quality materials such as stainless steel. Durability is essential for withstanding the rigors of daily use. Check for warranties and service options to ensure long-term reliability.
Ease of Use and Maintenance: Choose a machine that is user-friendly and easy to clean. Features like removable drip trays and self-cleaning functions can save time and effort. A machine that simplifies operation can help staff quickly learn how to use it efficiently.
Our Recommendations For Best Espresso Machine For Small Cafe
| Award | Design | Espresso Machines | Retailer |
|---|---|---|---|
| Best Overall Espresso Machine for Small Cafe | Best Pick | VIEW ON AMAZON | |
| Best Value for Money Espresso Machine | Staff Pick | VIEW ON AMAZON | |
| Best All-in-One Espresso Machine for Small Cafe |  | VIEW ON AMAZON | |
| Best Manual Espresso Machine for Small Cafe |  | VIEW ON AMAZON | |
| Best User-Friendly Espresso Machine for Small Cafe |  | VIEW ON AMAZON | |
| Best Professional-Grade Espresso Machine for Small Cafe |  | VIEW ON AMAZON | |
| Best Advanced Features Espresso Machine for Small Cafe |  | VIEW ON AMAZON | |
| Best Compact Espresso Machine for Small Cafe | Budget Pick | VIEW ON AMAZON |
Breville Barista Touch
Best Overall Espresso Machine for Small Cafe
SPECIFICATIONS
Model: Breville Barista Touch BES880DBL | Type: Automatic Espresso Machine | Display: Touchscreen interface | Grinder: Integrated, adjustable grind size | Frother: Automatic milk frother with self-cleaning feature
| KEY FEATURES
Ease of Use: Intuitive touchscreen for easy operation | Quality Coffee: Delivers rich and smooth coffee | Value: Cost-effective compared to coffee shop visits |
REASONS TO BUY
✓Consistently makes delicious coffee
✓User-friendly touchscreen interface
✓Automatic frother simplifies milk preparation
✓Stylish and well-constructed
✓Good investment value
REASONS TO AVOID
✗Heat consistency can vary
Breville Barista Touch is the top choice for a small cafe in search of a high-performing espresso machine that merges ease of use with exceptional quality. Its intuitive touchscreen interface is designed to simplify operation, allowing staff to quickly master the machine and produce a variety of coffee beverages. With features like an integrated grinder and automatic milk frother, the Barista Touch ensures that every cup of coffee is brewed to perfection with minimal effort.
For a small cafe, customization is key, and the Barista Touch delivers with its adjustable grind size and temperature settings. This flexibility allows you to tailor each brew to meet your customers’ specific tastes, ensuring that each coffee is brewed to the highest standards.
Maintenance is also a breeze with the Barista Touch, thanks to its self-cleaning frother and auto-clean function. This ease of upkeep helps maintain the machine’s performance and extends its lifespan, although occasional issues with part durability have been noted. Despite this, the machine’s overall reliability and high-quality performance make it a worthwhile investment for any small cafe.
Overall, the Breville Barista Touch offers a superb balance of user-friendly features, customization options, and durable performance, making it an excellent choice for enhancing your cafe’s coffee offerings.
De’Longhi Magnifica Evo
Best Value for Money Espresso Machine
SPECIFICATIONS
Model: De’Longhi Magnifica Evo | Type: Automatic Espresso Machine | Power: 1450 watts | Water Tank Capacity: 60 oz | Bean Container Capacity: 8.8 oz
| KEY FEATURES
LatteCrema System: Automatically froths milk for creamy beverages | Colored Touch Display: User-friendly interface for easy operation | Customization: Adjustable coffee strength, temperature, and volume
REASONS TO BUY
✓Easy to use and operate
✓Makes excellent coffee and espresso
✓Compact size fits kitchen well
✓Quiet operation during brewing
✓Good value for the features offered
REASONS TO AVOID
✗Difficult to clean thoroughly
✗Frequent issues with the milk frother
De’Longhi Magnifica Evo stands out as a superb choice for small cafes looking for an espresso machine that delivers exceptional value for money. Its bean-to-cup functionality simplifies the coffee-making process, allowing you to produce a range of beverages from espresso to cappuccino with minimal effort. The LatteCrema System enhances the machine’s versatility, automatically frothing milk to create creamy, professional-quality drinks every time.
One of the key benefits of the Magnifica Evo is its user-friendly colored touch display. This feature makes navigating the machine’s settings straightforward, ensuring that even less experienced staff can operate it with ease. Additionally, the adjustable coffee strength, temperature, and volume allow for precise customization, catering to diverse customer preferences and ensuring a high level of satisfaction.
Despite its compact design, which makes it a great fit for any kitchen space, the Magnifica Evo does face some challenges. Cleaning the machine can be somewhat cumbersome, and there are occasional issues with the milk frother. However, the ease of use, quiet operation, and overall performance make it a valuable addition to any small cafe.
Overall, the De’Longhi Magnifica Evo offers an impressive combination of functionality, convenience, and affordability, making it a top con
Breville Barista Express
Best All-in-One Espresso Machine for Small Cafe
SPECIFICATIONS
Model: Breville Barista Express BES870XL | Type: Semi-Automatic Espresso Machine | Power: 1600 watts | Water Tank Capacity: 67 oz | Grinder: Integrated conical burr grinder
| KEY FEATURES
Built-in Grinder: Grinds beans fresh before brewing with adjustable settings | Steam Wand: Manual frothing for versatile beverage preparation | Hot Water Dispenser: Convenient for Americanos and tea | Pressure Gauge: Monitors extraction pressure for optimal brewing
REASONS TO BUY
✓Makes excellent espresso with rich flavor
✓User-friendly controls and straightforward setup
✓Built-in grinder ensures fresh coffee grounds
✓Enhances kitchen decor with modern design
✓Maintains consistent brewing temperature
REASONS TO AVOID
✗Pressure gauge sometimes fails to build pressure
Breville Barista Express is a top choice for small cafes looking for an all-in-one espresso machine that delivers high-quality results with convenience. Its semi-automatic design allows for precise control over the brewing process, while the built-in conical burr grinder ensures that your coffee is freshly ground for each brew. This feature not only enhances the flavor of your espresso but also simplifies the coffee-making process, making it ideal for busy cafe environments.
One of the standout features of the Barista Express is its steam wand, which provides the flexibility to froth milk manually for lattes and cappuccinos. This versatility is essential for a cafe that aims to offer a range of coffee beverages. Additionally, the hot water dispenser is a useful feature for preparing Americanos and teas, adding to the machine’s functionality.
Although the Barista Express excels in many areas, it does have a few drawbacks. The pressure gauge can occasionally fail to build adequate pressure, which may affect the quality of the espresso, and the steam wand may lack the power needed for extensive frothing. Despite these issues, the machine’s user-friendly controls, consistent brewing temperature, and modern design make it a valuable addition to any small cafe.
Overall, the Breville Barista Express offers a comprehensive set of features and reliable performance, making it a great investment for cafes that want to serve high-quality espresso beverages while enjoying ease of use and stylish design.
Gaggia RI9380/56 Classic
Best Manual Espresso Machine for Small Cafe
SPECIFICATIONS
Model: Gaggia RI9380/56 Classic Evo Pro | Type: Manual Espresso Machine | Power: 120V | Boiler: Single stainless steel | Pump Pressure: 15 bars | Water Reservoir Capacity: 2.1 liters | Portafilter Size: 58mm
| KEY FEATURES
Classic Design: Timeless stainless steel construction | Commercial-Style Portafilter: 58mm for optimal extraction | Adjustable Temperature: Customizable for different coffee types | Pre-infusion System: Ensures even extraction for rich flavors
REASONS TO BUY
✓Easy to operate and set up
✓Produces rich and flavorful espresso
✓Sturdy and durable construction
✓Excellent steam pressure for frothing
✓Timeless design enhances cafe decor
REASONS TO AVOID
✗Takes time to heat up
✗Requires regular maintenance cleaning
Gaggia RI9380/56 Classic Evo Pro is an ideal choice for small cafes seeking a manual espresso machine that combines classic design with high performance. Celebrating Gaggia’s 85th anniversary, this machine is renowned for its durability and exceptional brewing capabilities. Its stainless steel construction not only adds a touch of elegance but also ensures long-lasting performance, making it a reliable addition to any cafe.
The 58mm commercial-style portafilter is a standout feature, providing optimal espresso extraction and allowing for a rich, flavorful coffee experience. The adjustable temperature settings and pre-infusion system further enhance the brewing process, ensuring that every cup of coffee is brewed to perfection. The powerful steam wand is also noteworthy, delivering excellent steam pressure for frothing milk, which is essential for creating a variety of coffee beverages.
While the Classic Evo Pro excels in many aspects, it does have a few drawbacks. The machine takes some time to heat up, which may impact efficiency during busy periods. Additionally, it requires regular maintenance cleaning to keep it in top condition. Despite these minor inconveniences, its sturdy construction, ease of operation, and classic design make it a valuable asset for any small cafe aiming to offer high-quality espresso.
Overall, the Gaggia RI9380/56 Classic Evo Pro provides a blend of traditional craftsmanship and modern performance, making it a top choice for cafes that appreciate both form and function in their coffee equipment.
PHILIPS 3200 Series
Best User-Friendly Espresso Machine for Small Cafe
SPECIFICATIONS
Model: PHILIPS 3200 Series EP3241/54 | Type: Fully Automatic Espresso Machine | Milk System: LatteGo | Coffee Varieties: 5 types (espresso, coffee, cappuccino, latte macchiato, Americano) | Grinder: 100% ceramic
| KEY FEATURES
Fully Automatic: Seamless coffee brewing experience | LatteGo System: Easy milk frothing and cleaning | Customizable Settings: Adjustable coffee strength and temperature | Durable Grinder: Ceramic grinder for consistent coffee grounds
REASONS TO BUY
✓Produces great-tasting coffee consistently
✓LatteGo milk system is user-friendly
✓Intuitive touch display simplifies operation
✓Ceramic grinder ensures optimal flavor extraction
✓Compact design fits well on kitchen counters
REASONS TO AVOID
✗Frequent maintenance and cleaning required
✗Inconsistent performance over time
PHILIPS 3200 Series EP3241/54 is an excellent choice for small cafes seeking a user-friendly espresso machine that combines ease of use with reliable performance. This fully automatic machine is designed to cater to coffee enthusiasts who value convenience and versatility. Its LatteGo milk system is particularly noteworthy, allowing users to effortlessly froth milk for various coffee beverages, from lattes to cappuccinos, with minimal effort.
One of the standout features of the PHILIPS 3200 Series is its intuitive touch display, which simplifies operation and ensures a smooth user experience. The machine offers customizable coffee strength and temperature settings, allowing you to tailor each brew to meet your customers’ preferences. The durable 100% ceramic grinder further enhances the flavor of your coffee by ensuring consistent grounds with every use.
While the PHILIPS 3200 Series excels in many areas, it does require frequent maintenance and cleaning to keep it in optimal condition. Additionally, some users report inconsistent performance over time and frothing issues with certain milk types. Despite these minor drawbacks, the machine’s overall performance, ease of use, and compact design make it a valuable addition to any small cafe looking to provide high-quality coffee with minimal hassle.
Overall, the PHILIPS 3200 Series offers a perfect blend of convenience, versatility, and performance, making it an ideal choice for enhancing your cafe’s coffee service.
Rancilio Silvia
Best Professional-Grade Espresso Machine for Small Cafe
SPECIFICATIONS
Model: Rancilio Silvia | Type: Semi-Automatic Espresso Machine | Power: 120V, 15A | Boiler Capacity: 12 oz | Portafilter Size: 58 mm | Water Reservoir Capacity: 2 liters | Pump Pressure: 15 bar | Heating System: Single boiler
| KEY FEATURES
Commercial-Grade Quality: Designed for professional espresso-making | User-Friendly Design: Simple controls for easy operation | Excellent Steam: Efficient for frothing milk and making lattes | Durable Construction: Sturdy stainless steel body for long-lasting use
REASONS TO BUY
✓Produces rich and flavorful espresso
✓User-friendly for beginners
✓Excellent build quality and durability
✓Great for home or small cafe use
✓Effective steam wand for milk frothing
REASONS TO AVOID
✗Inconsistent temperature during brewing
✗Difficult to clean in tight spaces
Rancilio Silvia is a top choice for small cafes looking for a professional-grade espresso machine that delivers exceptional quality and durability. With its stainless steel construction and commercial-grade features, this machine is designed to meet the demands of serious coffee enthusiasts. The Rancilio Silvia offers a powerful 15-bar pump and a single boiler system, ensuring rich, full-bodied espresso with every brew.
One of the key strengths of the Rancilio Silvia is its excellent steam wand, which provides efficient milk frothing for lattes and cappuccinos. This feature is essential for cafes that want to offer a range of coffee beverages with a creamy texture. The machine’s user-friendly controls make it accessible for both experienced baristas and beginners, allowing for easy operation and consistent results.
However, the Rancilio Silvia does have some limitations. It may exhibit inconsistent temperature during brewing, which can affect the quality of the coffee. Additionally, its compact size makes cleaning in tight spaces somewhat challenging, and it may not be ideal for high-volume coffee production. The machine also requires regular maintenance and may incur costly repairs over time.
Despite these considerations, the Rancilio Silvia stands out for its robust construction, high-quality performance, and reliability, making it an excellent investment for small cafes seeking a blend of professional-grade features and durability.
Jura E8 Automatic
Best Advanced Features Espresso Machine for Small Cafe
SPECIFICATIONS
Model: Jura E8 Automatic | Type: Fully Automatic Espresso Machine | Power: 1450 watts | Water Tank Capacity: 64 oz | Bean Hopper Capacity: 10 oz | Grinder: Aroma G3 grinder with adjustable settings
| KEY FEATURES
One-Touch Functionality: Brews various coffee specialties with a single button | Smart Connect: Compatible with Jura Coffee App for remote operation | Integrated Milk Frother: Creates creamy foam for lattes and cappuccinos
REASONS TO BUY
✓Excellent coffee quality every time
✓User-friendly with intuitive controls
✓Stylish design fits any kitchen décor
✓Easy to clean and maintain regularly
✓Versatile coffee specialties at the touch of a button
REASONS TO AVOID
✗Expensive compared to other brands
✗Grinder clogs with certain bean types
Jura E8 Automatic Espresso Machine is a standout choice for small cafes seeking an espresso machine that combines advanced technology with user-friendly features. Designed to cater to coffee enthusiasts, the Jura E8 offers a range of coffee specialties at the touch of a button, from rich espressos to creamy lattes. Its one-touch functionality simplifies the brewing process, making it easy for baristas to deliver high-quality coffee with minimal effort.
The integrated Aroma G3 grinder ensures that coffee beans are ground to the optimal consistency, enhancing the flavor of each cup. Additionally, the Jura E8 features a built-in milk frother that creates creamy foam for lattes and cappuccinos, adding versatility to your coffee offerings. The machine’s TFT color display provides easy navigation, and the Smart Connect feature allows for remote operation via the Jura Coffee App, making it convenient to control the machine from your smartphone.
While the Jura E8 offers numerous advanced features, it does come with a higher price tag compared to other brands. Some users may also experience issues with the grinder clogging when using certain types of beans and occasional inconsistency with the milk frother. Additionally, customer service response times have been noted as slow.
Despite these drawbacks, the Jura E8 remains a top choice for its excellent coffee quality, stylish design, and ease of maintenance. Its combination of advanced features and user-friendly operation makes it an excellent investment for small cafes aiming to provide a premium coffee experience.
Breville Bambino Plus
Best Compact Espresso Machine for Small Cafe
SPECIFICATIONS
Model: Breville Bambino Plus | Type: Semi-Automatic Espresso Machine | Power: 1560 Watts | Pump Pressure: 15 Bar | Water Tank Capacity: 64 oz | Portafilter Size: 54mm | Heating System: Thermojet Technology
| KEY FEATURES
Fast Heat-Up Time: Ready to brew in 3 seconds | Compact Design: Fits in small kitchen spaces | Manual Control: Full control over espresso extraction | Steam Wand: Allows for versatile milk frothing
REASONS TO BUY
✓Great espresso quality and flavor
✓Compact size fits well in kitchens
✓Easy to use for beginners
✓Quick heat-up time saves waiting
✓Manual frothing offers versatility
REASONS TO AVOID
✗Steamer can be challenging to use
✗No built-in grinder available
Breville Bambino Plus stands out as an exceptional choice for small cafes that need a compact yet powerful espresso machine. Designed with both functionality and space efficiency in mind, this machine is ideal for cafes with limited counter space but a desire for high-quality espresso. Its sleek stainless steel design not only adds a touch of elegance but also ensures durability and longevity.
One of the key advantages of the Bambino Plus is its rapid heat-up time, reaching brewing temperature in just 3 seconds. This feature is particularly valuable in a busy cafe environment where efficiency is crucial. The manual steam wand allows for versatile milk frothing, making it easy to create a range of beverages, from lattes to cappuccinos, while giving you full control over the texture and temperature of the milk.
Despite its compact size, the Bambino Plus does have some limitations. The machine’s capacity may not be sufficient for larger brews or high-volume use, and the steamer can be challenging for some users to master. Additionally, the absence of a built-in grinder means you will need to invest in a separate grinder for freshly ground coffee. Regular cleaning and maintenance are required to keep the machine in top condition.
Overall, the Breville Bambino Plus offers a blend of professional-grade features and user-friendly operation in a compact package. It’s an excellent choice for small cafes looking to deliver high-quality espresso while maximizing their counter space.
Summary
Choosing the best espresso machine for small cafe involves balancing performance, size, and ease of use. The Breville Barista Touch excels with its touchscreen interface and versatile functionality, making it a top pick for overall excellence.
For space-conscious environments, the De’Longhi Magnifica Evo offers a compact design with advanced features. The Gaggia RI9380/56 Classic Evo Pro provides a professional touch with its durable build, while the PHILIPS 3200 Series is praised for its user-friendly design.
The Rancilio Silvia stands out for its commercial-grade quality, and the Jura E8 Automatic integrates smart technology. The Breville Bambino Plus is ideal for those seeking a compact, high-performance machine.
