Whether you’re a coffee enthusiast or new to the scene, it’s good to note that choosing the right machine is just as important as selecting the perfect beans. From aiming to improve your business’s coffee offering for customers to finding the ideal office setup, it’s essential to carefully consider the benefits and drawbacks of a bean to cup machine versus a traditional espresso machine. This choice can make a world of difference to the quality and efficiency of your coffee service.
A bean to cup coffee machine allows you to grind whole coffee beans and create a fresh espresso, cappuccino, or flat white in under 30 seconds. No need for barista expertise, just freshly ground coffee at the touch of a button.
These machines are typically fully automated. Simply add water (this can be done through manual fill or plumbed-in), milk, and coffee beans to the designated compartments, and with minimal input, you’ll have a great cup of coffee every time. Most bean-to-cup machines only require basic instructions from a technician on how to use and maintain the machine.
One of the big benefits of a bean-to-cup machine is how user-friendly and efficient it is. Making it ideal for environments like offices, gyms, or other workplace settings where coffee needs to be served quickly and consistently. These machines offer a wide variety of drinks at the touch of a button, delivering each cup within 20 to 60 seconds.
You can also choose between fresh milk or powdered milk, depending on your preference. Plus, many models are energy-efficient and feature an eco-mode, which is a great option for those looking to reduce their environmental impact.
However, while they’re convenient, they do require regular maintenance, especially if you’re using fresh milk, as it needs more frequent cleaning. With the right care, these machines can be a solid, hassle-free choice for many environments.
A traditional espresso machine is the heart of many coffee shops and cafés. Known for its ability to produce high-quality coffee through a manual brewing process, it uses a group head and portafilter to pressurise hot water through finely ground coffee. This hands-on method allows baristas to craft the perfect espresso or latte every time.
Traditional espresso machines are built for reliability, and they shine in fast-paced environments, making them ideal for high-demand settings like cafés, restaurants, and catering services.
If your goal is top-tier coffee quality, a traditional espresso machine takes the lead, especially when you have an experienced barista behind the counter. However, if you’re in an office or workplace environment where consistency and convenience are key, a bean-to-cup machine can deliver fresh coffee with no training required.
As long as a bean to cup machine is well-maintained, you can expect reliable results cup after cup. In comparison, traditional espresso machines rely on the skill of the operator, meaning the quality can vary depending on who’s behind the machine and their expertise.
Bean-to-cup machines are perfect for self-service environments like offices, showrooms, and gyms. Their user-friendly design makes them ideal for staff or customers to help themselves without the need for a professional. Traditional machines, however, are generally best suited to environments where skilled baristas can operate them, such as coffee shops and restaurants.
Choosing the right coffee machine is essential to the success of your business, whether you’re a high-traffic café or an office looking to improve your coffee offering. Each machine has its advantages, so it’s important to consider your specific needs.
Breaking down the ease and efficiency of a bean-to-cup machine or the craftsmanship of a traditional espresso machine, we can help you find the ideal solution. Contact us today or explore our selection of commercial coffee machines in Ireland to discover the perfect fit for your space.
Nothing compares to that coffee shop feeling, enjoying the rich aroma of freshly ground coffee and that first sip of expertly brewed espresso. Now, imagine bringing that experience into your workplace with a premium commercial coffee machine.
Investing in a high-quality coffee machine for business use is proven to enhance productivity, improve employee well-being, and create a professional, welcoming atmosphere. Whether you operate a busy office, hotel, restaurant, or healthcare facility, choosing the right coffee machine is essential for delivering quality coffee experiences.
As one of Ireland’s leading suppliers of coffee, water, and vending solutions, we have put together this in-depth guide to help you navigate the options available and select the best commercial coffee machine to match your business needs, ensuring quality, efficiency, and reliability cup after cup.
With a wide range of leading makes, models and styles it can be difficult to know where to start when deciding on the best coffee maker for you. From improving well-being to enriching your space with a premium feel, your chosen machine needs to be well-suited to your space, and able to meet the demands of your team, customers or guests.
Here are the key factors and features to consider when selecting the right machine for your business:
Consider how many cups of coffee your business needs to serve each day. A commercial coffee machine should be capable of handling peak demand without compromising quality. Small teams may find that a single-serve coffee machine is ideal, while larger workplaces or high-traffic environments will benefit from a professional coffee machine with a higher brewing capacity.
For offices with over 50 employees or busy hospitality settings, machines such as bean-to-cup or instant coffee machines are ideal, offering features like automatic milk foaming, touchless technology, and a wide range of beverages.
Additionally, durability is key. Investing in a high-quality, well-built commercial espresso machine ensures longevity and consistent performance, reducing downtime and maintenance costs in high-demand environments.
A high-quality professional coffee machine should cater to diverse coffee preferences. Many modern machines offer advanced customisation features, including:
Premium bean to cup models, such as the Schaerer Coffee Club or Schaerer Coffee Soul 12, even allow users to place orders via mobile apps, reducing wait times and enhancing efficiency.
From single-serve machines to premium barista-style setups, commercial coffee machines vary in price. While high-end models require a larger upfront investment, they offer long-term savings through efficiency, durability, and energy-saving features that reduce operational costs.
Many businesses opt for coffee machine rentals or leasing options to manage costs while still benefiting from a professional coffee machine that enhances workplace productivity. Beyond the initial investment, you must also take into account the ongoing upkeep such as maintenance, servicing, and the cost of coffee beans or consumables. Opting for a high-quality, durable machine may require a larger upfront spend but can prevent frequent breakdowns and costly repairs.
Coffee in the workplace is no longer considered just a perk, it’s essential for boosting morale, productivity, and employee satisfaction. Bean-to-cup machines are the preferred choice, offering freshly ground coffee with minimal effort.
Key considerations:
Hotels must cater to a diverse guest base, requiring a mix of coffee solutions. Bean to cup machines suit breakfast areas and self-service stations, while traditional espresso machines provide a premium experience in the lounge, restaurants and bar.
Key considerations:
A hotel’s coffee experience plays a vital role in its overall hospitality. By investing in a premium coffee solution, you can enhance guest satisfaction, boost online reviews, and foster repeat visits.
In the food and beverage industry, the quality of your coffee can set the tone for a customer’s entire experience. Whether you’re operating a speciality coffee shop or a bustling restaurant, consistency and speed are essential.
Traditional espresso machines are perfect for cafés and restaurants with skilled baristas who can craft high-quality beverages. However, high-output bean-to-cup machines are ideal for fast-paced environments where efficiency is key.
Key considerations:
For businesses aiming to maintain high coffee standards while boosting efficiency, selecting the right commercial espresso machine is an important decision that directly impacts both customer satisfaction and revenue.
Hospitals, care homes, and universities need reliable, high-capacity coffee solutions that are simple to operate and maintain. Whether it’s staff, patients, or students, everyone benefits from easy access to quality beverages in break areas, cafeterias, or vending stations.
Bean to cup and instant coffee machines are popular choices in these environments for their efficiency and ease of use.
Key considerations:
For healthcare and education institutions, investing in the right coffee solution ensures consistent quality and convenience for users while keeping operational costs in check.
Providing high-quality, consistent coffee in commercial settings offers numerous benefits, from boosting staff productivity to enhancing customer experiences and adding that extra touch of excellence.
A good cup of coffee is proven to increase concentration, creativity, and problem-solving skills, leading to greater workplace efficiency and fostering collaboration. Whether you’re running a hotel, café, or office, offering great-tasting coffee ensures a lasting impression on clients, guests, and staff alike.
At Liquidline, we offer a wide range of commercial coffee and espresso machines designed to meet the unique needs and size of your business in Ireland. Our expert in-house team works closely with each client to understand their specific requirements, helping them navigate the process and recommend the ideal machine for their space. Whether you’re looking to purchase, lease, or rent a machine, we provide a smooth, hassle-free experience, from start to finish along with comprehensive after-sale support and a range of maintenance packages.
We’re committed to delivering premium coffee solutions that elevate your workspace and impress all users. Get in touch with our team today to find the perfect professional coffee machine for your business.
Not sure where to start? Try our Machine Finder Tool, created by our coffee experts, to help you find the best fit for your needs.
The coffee extraction process is both a science and an art. It’s more than just mixing hot water with coffee grounds, it requires precision, skill, and the right technique to bring out the best flavours. Several factors influence coffee extraction, including the water-to-coffee ratio, grind size, roast level, water temperature, and brewing time.
Brewing coffee involves extracting soluble compounds from roasted and ground coffee beans. As the hot water interacts with the coffee, a variety of substances dissolve, creating the complex flavours and aromas we associate with a quality cup of coffee. Extracted coffee contains caffeine, acids, lipids, fats, sugars, and carbohydrates.
Several factors impact solubility, including the coffee’s origin, grind size, water mineral content, roast profile, and brewing method. Different brew methods require specific adjustments, a process known as “dialling in,” where tweaks to grind size and coffee dose help achieve the perfect balance of flavours.
In this method, coffee grounds are fully submerged in water, allowing extraction to occur over time. French press brewing is a popular immersion method, typically taking 4–5 minutes. Most immersion brews require filtration, and in the case of a French press, a metal filter removes excess grounds and particles. Over time, extraction slows as fewer coffee solids dissolve into the water.
Drip coffee methods use infusion brewing, which ensures a constant flow of fresh water through a coffee bed and filter. This method is more efficient at extracting coffee solubles than immersion due to the continuous replenishment of water.
Espresso is a form of infusion that uses pressure to extract coffee. Originating from Italy, espresso is made using specialised equipment, such as commercial bean to cup coffee machines and grinders. The serving size of an espresso ranges from 20–40ml, making it much more concentrated than drip coffee. A finer grind and pressurised water allow for a quick and efficient 20–30 second brew.
A brew ratio refers to the amount of coffee relative to the amount of water used. If you’re brewing coffee for a group, understanding brew ratios is essential for consistency and flavour.
For drip coffee, the standard ratio is 1:16—one part coffee to sixteen parts water. Most brew ratios fall between 1:15 to 1:18. Espresso shots, due to rapid extraction, typically use a 1:2 ratio. Using too little water can result in an overly strong brew that lacks complexity, so experimenting to find your preferred ratio is key.
Measuring both coffee and water is crucial for accuracy. A digital scale helps ensure precise ratios, enabling you to fine-tune the extraction process and achieve the ideal balance of flavours.
Brew manipulation allows you to control and adjust flavour. Here are some techniques to refine your coffee experience:
Achieving the perfect extraction is about balance. Extraction falls into three categories:
At Café Bonté, we believe coffee is more than just a drink, it’s an experience. Our expertly roasted beans cater to a variety of preferences, ensuring every cup delivers the perfect balance of flavour, aroma, and strength. Whether you love a bold espresso or a smooth filter coffee, our curated range guarantees a premium coffee experience every time.
We take pride in sourcing the finest coffee beans and using precise roasting techniques to bring out their unique characteristics. With Café Bonté, you can enjoy rich, aromatic coffee that enhances every moment of your day.
Understanding coffee extraction helps you craft the perfect cup tailored to your taste. From mastering brew ratios to adjusting grind size, each element plays a role in achieving a well-balanced flavour. Whether you’re a coffee enthusiast or a business looking to serve top-quality coffee, getting your extraction right makes all the difference.
If you’d like to learn more about our Café Bonté coffee range or need expert advice on coffee solutions for your business, contact us today. We’re here to help you serve exceptional coffee, every time.
Milk is a key ingredient in many coffee drinks, and the way it’s prepared plays a crucial role in the flavour of the final cup. For baristas and coffee enthusiasts knowing the difference between steamed milk and foamed milk is essential in creating a perfect espresso-based beverage, whether it’s a latte, cappuccino, or even a sweet treat like a hot chocolate. Both methods of steaming and frothing milk will enhance the texture and flavour of coffee, but they require different techniques and produce distinct results. But what are the key differences between steamed milk and foamed milk and how are they used in popular coffee drinks?
Steamed milk is much heavier than foamed milk, and is created as a result of the milk coming into contact with the steam wand on an espresso machine. When milk is exposed to steam, the fats in the milk begin to break down, causing it to expand and form tiny bubbles known as microfoam or microbubbles. This results in a silky, smooth texture, making steamed milk an excellent choice for drinks like lattes and flat whites.
Steamed milk provides a creamy consistency that balances out the strong flavours of espresso. The tiny bubbles in microfoam give the milk a velvety finish, which is particularly important for latte art and creating that indulgent, luxurious mouthfeel experience.
Foamed milk (also known as frothed milk) is airier and lighter than steamed milk and is created by introducing more air into the milk through the steam wand. The wand is kept near the surface of the milk, allowing more air to be incorporated and forming larger bubbles. This produces a drier foam texture in the milk that is less watery than steamed milk, making it perfect for drinks like cappuccinos and macchiatos.
Foamed milk holds its shape very well, which is why it’s ideal for topping off drinks. The light and airy foam spreads easily and creates a beautiful visual contrast on top of espresso-based drinks.
Steaming milk is a skill that requires practice, but having the right equipment can make this process much easier. An espresso machine with a steam wand is the ideal tool for creating perfectly steamed milk. Here’s how to steam milk properly:
Foaming milk, while similar to the previous method, requires a slightly different technique. The steam wand needs to be positioned closer to the surface of the milk to introduce more air, stretching the milk and expanding its volume. Here’s how to foam milk properly:
Steamed milk is enjoyed in a range of espresso-based drinks as it’s perfect for adding that creamy texture to balance the aromatic flavours of espresso. Some of the most popular drinks made with steamed milk include:
Steamed milk is best suited for drinks that require a smooth, rich consistency and are usually enjoyed hot.
Foamed milk is perfect for adding a light, airy texture to milk-based beverages. Some of the most popular drinks that are made using foamed milk include:
The versatility of foamed milk makes it an excellent addition to a wide range of drinks, both hot and cold.
When trying out the popular drinks made with either steamed or foamed milk, it’s important to know which coffee to pair each with and at what time of day. For some additional helpful tips check out our guide on the best coffee choices for every time of day.
Understanding the differences between steamed milk and foamed milk is essential for anyone looking to master their coffee-making skills. Both techniques require practice, precision and the right equipment, using the steam wand on a commercial espresso machine, will make all the difference.
While learning the correct way to froth and steam milk is important in delivering great-tasting coffee cup after cup, maintaining the quality of your machine is equally essential. Make sure you check out our guide on how to descale an espresso machine to keep all elements of your service at a high standard and in top condition.
If you’re looking to WOW your team and customers with a premium coffee experience using the latest coffee machine technology, contact Liquidline today. We create tailored coffee solutions to suit your business needs and offer a custom quote. Reach out now and let us help you deliver exceptional coffee experiences.
There are a number of methods used to descale an espresso machine, depending on the make and model. Descaling regularly is key to maintaining a high level of quality within the flavour of the espresso you produce and extending the life of your machine. You should be descaling your machine at least three or four times a year to avoid the unwanted buildup of limescale, coffee residue, and other harmful bacteria.
There are many factors that can hinder the quality of your coffee, including not maintaining a regular cleaning routine. Here are some of the key reasons why descaling your espresso machine is so important.
One of the first signs that your espresso machine needs descaling is a noticeable change in taste. As scale builds up inside the machine, it affects the water temperature, which in turn impacts the coffee extraction process. Low brewing temperatures lead to low extraction yield, resulting in weak, under-extracted coffee. Conversely, high brewing temperatures cause over-extraction, making your coffee bitter and harsh.
Scale buildup reduces the water temperature over time, leading to an overly acidic and unpleasant brew. For anyone serious about their coffee, maintaining a consistent temperature is key, and regular descaling ensures your machine performs at its best. Using filtered water can also help, as it reduces the minerals that contribute to limescale buildup.
Limescale is not just a taste issue—it can lead to serious mechanical problems with your espresso machine. The scale can build up to the point where it obstructs the flow of water inside your machine. If the pipes become clogged, water flow to the brew head and steam wand is restricted, making it difficult to brew coffee or steam milk effectively.
In extreme cases, the scale can completely block the pipes, preventing the machine from producing steam or milk at all. The machine may also struggle to detect the correct water levels, leading to overfilling, overflowing, and potential damage to the boiler. Regular descaling helps prevent these costly issues, ensuring your machine runs smoothly and reliably.
If your office is based in a hard-water area and you use your espresso machine up to six times per day, we recommend descaling your espresso machine every three weeks to avoid scale buildup. However, if you’re in a soft-water area, descaling every three to four months should suffice.
Some espresso machines come with automatic descaling cycles, pulsing water through at regular intervals using a full reservoir of water and taking up to 20 minutes to complete. But if your machine doesn’t have an automatic descaling option, you’ll need to do it manually. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you through the process:
By following these steps, you can ensure that your heat exchange espresso machine remains in peak condition, delivering great-tasting coffee every time.
If your machine has an automatic descaling cycle, refer to the manual for instructions on how to descale the machine. For those machines without an automatic cycle, here’s a step-by-step guide to help you through the process:
Following these steps will help you keep your super-automatic espresso machine clean and efficient, ensuring you can enjoy consistently excellent coffee.
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When it comes to descaling your espresso machine, choosing the right product is crucial. Here are some of the best options available in Ireland:
Jura Descaling Tablets are highly recommended for use with Jura coffee machines. These tablets are specially formulated to remove scale and maintain the performance of your machine. They’re available in packs of 9 or 36, making them a convenient choice for both small and large commercial users.
K-Fee Descaler Liquid removes limescale deposits that have accumulated in the capsule machine. Keeping your machine working at it’s best.
The Schaerer Descaler is used to descale your Schaerer coffee machine. Available in a 750ml bottle. Watch our helpful video on how to descale a Schaerer coffee machine.
Regular descaling is essential to maintaining the performance and longevity of your espresso machine. Whether you’re a coffee enthusiast at home or managing a busy café, following the correct descaling routine will ensure that your machine consistently produces high-quality espresso. By choosing the right descaling products and following the steps outlined in this guide, you can descale your espresso machine like a pro, keeping it in top condition for years to come.
If you have any questions or tips on descaling, feel free to share them in the comments below. Happy brewing!
From the smooth richness of a latte to the intense kick of an espresso, knowing which coffee to drink and when will improve its effectiveness and boost your productivity throughout the day.
While personal preference will always play a significant role, certain types of coffee are traditionally best suited to specific times and situations. However with today’s wide range of coffee options, it can sometimes leave even a coffee aficionado overwhelmed. This is where Liquidline comes in, we have created this guide to help you navigate the best coffee choices for every time of day.
Before diving into the best times to enjoy your favourite brew, it’s essential to understand the various types of coffee available to you. From a punchy and smooth espresso to a creamy and comforting flat white, each type of coffee offers a unique taste and caffeine kick.
The chosen method of brewing will also significantly impact the flavour and strength of your coffee, whether it’s using a bean to cup coffee machine, an instant coffee machine, or an espresso machine. Let’s take a look at some popular coffee types and their recommended drinking times.
Let’s start by focusing on the key ingredient in all of the delicious coffees we know and love, the humble espresso. A concentrated coffee brewed by forcing hot water through finely-ground coffee beans, an espresso can being enjoyed on its own or used to create a range of coffees. Typically served in small cups called demitasses and is known for its strong, rich flavour and high caffeine content.
Traditionally, espresso is consumed in the afternoon or evening, often after a meal, as its qualities can help counteract any post-meal fatigue. Unlike milk-based coffees, espresso is suitable for later in the day as it doesn’t contain milk, which can often be harder to digest in the evening.
As a well-known morning staple in many parts of the world, particularly in Italy, a classic cappuccino is made using a shot of espresso, then topped with steamed milk and finished off with a dense layer of frothy foam. The combination of caffeine, plus the lactose and fat content from the milk provides the energy boost needed in the morning. Enjoying a cappuccino in the morning allows you to take advantage of its invigorating properties without overwhelming your digestive system later in the day.
Cappuccinos are more filling than other coffee options, making them less suitable for a post-meal consumption.
Lattes are the milkiest form of coffee, making them a traditional choice for a weaker morning beverage. A latte consists of a shot of espresso mixed with steamed milk and a small amount of milk foam that sits on the top. This creamy and mild coffee is perfect for those who prefer a less intense coffee experience. In hot weather, you can opt for an iced latte, which is equally refreshing and delicious, while also being a great way to enhance the espresso flavour within the drink.
Even though lattes are typically consumed in the morning, don’t hesitate to enjoy one whenever you need a smooth and comforting coffee experience.
The macchiato is generally regarded as another popular choice for an afternoon pick me up due to its low milk content. It consists of a shot of espresso “stained” with a small amount of frothed or flat milk. The macchiato strikes a balance between the strong flavour of espresso and with a subtle amount of creamy milk, making it an excellent choice for those who want a bit of both.
A mocha combines the best of both worlds: the rich indulgent flavour of espresso and the sweet, comforting taste of chocolate. Made with a base of espresso, and topped with steamed milk, and cocoa powder, a mocha can also be enjoyed with whipped cream for an extra special treat.
This coffee choice is another morning favourite, as its filling nature makes it a great mid-morning pick-me-up for a sugar and caffeine boost to see you through the day. The added sweetness from the chocolate can also help curb any early cravings for dessert.
An Americano is essentially a watered-down espresso, created by adding a hot water to a mug and pouring in a shot of espresso. This results in a coffee that is similar in strength to drip coffee but with a more distinct espresso flavour.
One of the good things about an Americano is its versatility; it can be enjoyed at any time of the day and easily adapted with a small amount of milk or sugar. Whether you need a quick morning boost or an afternoon refreshment, an Americano provides a balanced coffee experience without the heaviness of milk-based drinks.
Choosing the right coffee at the right time will better your coffee-drinking experience and provide you with the energy you need to focus on your day. From the morning comfort of a latte or cappuccino to the afternoon boost of an espresso or Americano, there’s a perfect coffee for every moment.
So, whether you’re a coffee enthusiast or just starting out in the caffeine world, embrace the rich and varied selection of coffee and make every cup count.
Whether you’re a coffee, tea or hot chocolate drinker, the milk you use in your drink is important for creating a beverage that is exactly to your taste requirements.
We have an array of different bean-to-cup coffee machines available at Liquidline, with both fresh and powdered milk options. But what is the difference between fresh and powdered milk? Let us break it down for you…
Powdered milk is made from pasteurised milk which has been dehydrated, giving it a powdered consistency and helping to preserve the product. The benefits of powdered milk include having a longer shelf life, as unlike fresh milk, it doesn’t need to be refrigerated. Powdered milk provides the same nutritional value as fresh milk, and includes nutrients such as calcium, proteins, and vitamins A and D.
If you’re looking to save a little bit of money, powdered milk tends to be the cheaper option. Some downsides include fewer dietary options than fresh milk – there are very few lactose-free options with powdered milk, though options are coming to market all the time The taste quality is good but doesn’t quite compare to the taste of fresh, liquid milk.
Powdered milk is very easy to store and thanks to its longer shelf life, is a great option if you want to buy your milk in bulk and have a regular supply without worrying about it going bad. It’s ideal for mixing with beverages such as smoothies, teas and coffee, however, it’s not compatible with espresso machines. If you have an instant coffee machine, powdered milk is often the best option.
With fresh milk, there are more options available for both dietary requirements and taste preferences – there are many fresh milk options from classic cow’s milk, to lactose-free, to oat and almond milk. Fresh milk has a superior taste to powdered milk and contains more vitamins such as B12 and B5, which benefit your body greatly.
Fresh milk is the best option for use with espresso machines, which is why it is preferred by baristas. It’s better for frothing and creating latte art, and whole milk creates a richer texture for delicious beverages. Although it is known to have a better flavour, consistency and nutritional benefits, fresh milk does need to be refrigerated and has a shorter shelf life. Because of this, it’s difficult to buy in bulk without running the risk of the product going out of date before use.
Having a selection of milk and other consumables available in your workspace helps to ensure that employees feel valued. A great supply of quality refreshments shows your team that you care about their needs, instead of just putting out a kettle in the kitchen and calling it a day. We have both fresh and powdered milk available to purchase for our customers to keep your refreshment solution fully stocked, whatever your preference. To place an order, get in touch at [email protected] or call 01 963 0314
