While I remain devoted to my trusty coffee capsules, the bean-to-cup experience is unmatched. The convenience of coffee capsules is certainly appealing, however, I found myself longing for the aroma of freshly ground coffee wafting through the air. When I came across the Smeg Bean to Cup Coffee Machine with Integrated Milk System, I felt an irresistible urge to give it a try.
After all, who wouldn’t want to channel their inner barista without stepping foot outside? Right out of the box, its striking retro design gives a serious vintage aesthetic—think 1950s Italian chic. It comes in an array of colours that elevate a space, from soft pastels to bold, eye-catching hues. Boasting a compact design, this machine fits seamlessly into even the most crowded kitchen counters.
The intuitive control panel features clear, easy-to-read buttons and a user-friendly display, making it simple to navigate through the settings effortlessly. Although it occupies a premium position in the market, the exceptional quality of drinks it produces and its striking appearence make the investment worthwhile. If you’re searching for a coffee machine that not only delivers outstanding performance but also serves as an elegant centrepiece in your kitchen, the Smeg Bean to Cup Coffee Machine is certainly worth considering.
What we like
1. Built-in Grinder: At the heart of the Smeg Bean to Cup Coffee Machine is its built-in grinder and automatic milk frothing system. If, like me, you consider freshly ground coffee to be essential, this feature is sure to make your heart skip a beat. The grinder offers adjustable coarseness, ensuring that each cup is brewed just the way you like it.
2. One-Touch Beverage Selection: With a single press of a button, I could whip up everything from a classic espresso to a cappuccino within seconds. This is an absolute lifesaver for busy days. The range of drink functions available includes espresso, long coffee, Americano, cappuccino, latte macchiato, espresso light, espresso macchiato, milk foam, and hot water.
3. Ease of Maintenance: Cleaning a coffee machine can feel like an Olympic sport. Fortunately, the Smeg Bean to Cup Coffee Machine makes maintenance a breeze. Thanks to its removable brewing unit and water tank, rinsing and cleaning are simple tasks. Additionally, the integrated milk system includes its own cleaning function, allowing for a hygienic frothing system with minimal effort.
What we didn’t like
1. Price Point: The Smeg Bean to Cup Coffee Machine represents a notable investment. While its exceptional quality justifies the price for dedicated coffee enthusiasts, it may not align with every budget.
2. Learning Curve: For newcomers to bean-to-cup machines, there may be a slight adjustment period in fine-tuning the settings for the perfect brew. Fortunately, this is a minor concern, as the intuitive control panel makes the transition seamless.
Where to buy
The Smeg Bean to Cup Coffee Machine with Integrated Milk System is available at BetterLife for AED4,799. Visit betterlifeuae.com or Better Life stores in the Mall of the Emirates, Mirdif City Center, Nakheel Mall, Abu Dhabi Mall, and Reem Mall.