LogFAQs > #970346877

Gwynevere posted...

Aren't you supposed to press the coffee into a puck before putting it in the espresso machine? That's how I've always seen it done

I do trust what Hoffman has to say about coffee. He always seems to put a lot of thought and research into the things he says

You are. However, every espresso machine comes with a press either attached to the machine or to the scoop used to fill the basket.

https://gamefaqs.gamespot.com/a/user_image/2/6/7/AAfQqfAAEBJT.jpg

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I will say that if you grind your own beans, you will make a much better shot of espresso, but it's not necessary. And if you do want to grind your own beans, you'll really want a ceramic burr-grinder. And while those aren't cheap, you can get one for around $200-250.