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

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.

@Erik_squires- Yes, I’ll try to find a photo. They are referred to as "manual" machines. There's a whole bunch on the Net about them. You have to boil the water, grind the beans, etc. The machine is just used to 'pull' the shot into a cup. 

But, no vacuum tube! :)