Hi, I'm Mikael

My Espresso Journey

It started with a single terrible shot from a Breville Barista Express I bought on Black Friday. Sour, thin, and nothing like the café espresso I was trying to replicate. That frustration sent me down a rabbit hole of grind settings, tamping techniques, and more YouTube videos than I'd like to admit.

Three years, countless bags of beans, and one upgraded machine later, I'm pulling shots that rival my favorite local coffee shops. Along the way, I've learned that great home espresso isn't about expensive gear—it's about understanding your equipment and being consistent with your technique.

Why I Started This Blog

I got tired of wading through forums full of coffee snobs and watching 45-minute videos just to learn how to dial in a new bag of beans. There had to be a better way to share practical, no-BS advice for home baristas.

This blog documents my journey in brewing perfection. Clear instructions. Real-world troubleshooting. Honest gear recommendations that won't break the bank.

What You'll Find Here

• Machine Mastery: Deep dives into Breville machines and how to get the most out of them
• Maintenance Guides: Keep your machine running smoothly for years

My Setup

Currently brewing on:

• Breville Barista Express (daily driver)
• Eureka Mignon Specialita (upgraded grinder)
• 1Zpresso JX-Pro (for travel)
• Acaia Lunar scale (yes, I'm that person)

Let's Connect

Have a question about your Breville? Stuck on a troubleshooting issue? Found a typo? I'd love to hear from you. Drop me a line and I'll do my best to help.