I went through this whole issue about six months ago and ended up with a De Longhi espresso machine (7900 baht) and a Krups burr grinder (about 3500) which do a fine job. The pair are overpriced when compared with Europe but the build quality is good and using Hillkof blends produces satisfying results.

Espresso machines are very expensive, especially the good ones at places like Hillkoff.

With the Euro coming down, I'm looking at Europe to buy. (Can't buy in the US due to voltage issues)

You mean around 9000 baht is expensive? I got a DeLonghi for around nine grands.

Yes. That Delonghi machine costs less than $100 abroad. 9000 baht is more than double that.

http://www.amazon.co...34939275&sr=8-1

http://www.amazon.co...34939275&sr=8-3

I looked at a Gaggia recently at Central.. 12,000 baht or so. Costs $225 outside of Thailand. Again about half.

http://www.amazon.co...34939503&sr=8-5

Knowing the real price my ego is really hurt

Yes. That Delonghi machine costs less than $100 abroad. 9000 baht is more than double that.

http://www.amazon.co...34939275&sr=8-1

http://www.amazon.co...34939275&sr=8-3

I looked at a Gaggia recently at Central.. 12,000 baht or so. Costs $225 outside of Thailand. Again about half.

http://www.amazon.co...34939503&sr=8-5

Dont' sweat it; short of importing you don't really have much choice.

I think you may be over extracting the coffee. When you put too much water through coffee it becomes bitter. Use the recommended amount of coffee for 4 cups and if necessary reduce the water even further. If needed add hot water only to the coffee if you like it weaker.

Harrry,

Thank you for your advice. Will have a go at it and see how that goes. The Delonghi is what I should have gotten!.

For anyone who is interested in making their own espresso at home, I have a Krups burr grinder and Krups espresso machine for sale at a very competitive price. I was given these as a birthday present two years ago. I used them for about 1 month, then an expat moving abroad offered to sell me a used automatic Saeco machine with a built-in grinder for 20,000 baht (less than half the original price) and I went for that offer as it was easier.

The Krups grinder and maker have been sitting in their boxes since then. Small black ants moved into the espresso machine box, so I had the equipment cleaned up at Hillkoff recently. Apart from a scratch on the back panel of the espresso machine, the equipment is currently in the same condition as when originally bought.

If I recall correctly, the original price was 3,500 for the burr grinder and 11,000 for the espresso machine (should still have the receipts so can check more closely). I'm willing to let go of them both for 6,500 to the first person interested. Just send me a PM, and come over and have a look to see the equipment for yourself.