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Isn't she cute? I just received delivery of my brand spanking new espresso maker. She froths, steams, drips, and tells time. I'm no coffee or espresso buff, but I am interested in learning more and being able to make a good cup of either--in addition to some of those other mocha-frapa-capa drinks.

To be honest, I might use her most often to heat up water or warm milk in a flash for tea or hot chocolate. But I am committed to evolving my coffee knowledge.

Until today, the espresso machine was a mountain I had yet to climb. My parents never drank coffee growing up, and I never latched onto it in high school or after. By the time college rolled around and I was waitressing in a small family run Italian restaurant in San Diego, I would wheel-and-deal with one of the guys in the kitchen to make espressos for me whenever one was ordered (we had to put together all salads and drinks in addition to taking orders and clearing tables).

This afternoon I assembled the X5, ran some hot water through it, per the instructions, and it was ready for its first cup. I decided to play it safe and use one of the espresso 'pods' that came with the machine. This particular model takes pods (or e.s.e-individual serving blah blah blahs). The first time through I used the wrong holder. I accidentally used the holder for ground coffee. Water was coming out clear, which I immediately understood was an indication of my failure. I switched holders, used a #3 filter, and out came a beautiful stream of espresso deep and dark and aromatic.

The taste. I would say it was on the bitter side, but tasted in the ballpark of what and espresso should. I understand there are all sorts of subtleties and nuances re:making the perfect shot of espresso. Im not there yet. I did get the machine to do a few other cool things. I steamed/frothed up some milk. Heated up and used plain hot water, and set the clock.

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