OT: Espresso machines


I know this is off topic for the A'gon, but I thought my fellow gear enthusiasts had an opinion.  I'm looking for a simple,  narrow espresso machine.  Reliability is important.  I have a Nespresso Vertuo which I really like but lately I've been roasting my own coffee and wanted a more traditional machine.

Opinions?

erik_squires

Gaggia seems to be the gold standard for value and quality without whistles and bells.

It does not get simpler and narrower than this:  https://flairespresso.com/product/neo-flex which I have, as well as a DeLonghi. La Pavoni is also narrow. I tried fancy espresso machines, they were not reliable and insignificant quality differences. 

One of the best espressos I ever had was on an old simple hand pulled machine. I can't imagine those cost much. The other great one I distinctly remember was a glitzy coffee bar in Palermo, near the docks, that had Illy branded all over the shop-- assume the macchina was also Illy but don't remember. We have a quality burr grinder here but do pour overs- that's how I've been making coffee for 50 years at home. I think our current bean comes from Costa Rica- lots of flavor but not super high caffeine. 

@whart by hand pulled, you mean the one's that literally have a lever on them you pull to push the water through?

AHhh, ok so I don't want LED/LCD diplsays but I was thinking of something with a built in water tank, milk frother.  Not thinking about the mechanical types, but if others want to discuss sure. 

@rhg3  Those look very nice, I will look for one without a grinder though since I already have one.  The Bambino has been recommended to me as well and looks like a solid contender, especially for size.

Nice to know affordable replacement parts are available.