So my best friend in France is Italian. Go figure. Probably because we're both huge soccer fans and so watched most of the 2002 World Cup together in bars, arguing throughout the day about what tactics our teams should use.
In any event, he introduced me to Illy coffee. He was of the firm opinion that one should use nothing else in espresso machines. When my grandmother was ill a couple of years ago she gave me a very nice little Krups espresso machine, which was likely a purchase by my uncle. It sat in my closet for the last couple of years until I dug it out last spring and brought it into the office. We have decent coffee here but it's still quite weak and when I saw that Whole Foods was selling Illy (unground) I had to buy some.
Best decision I've made in months. Every afternoon, folks from work and I gather around the little machine and make espressos. They have just the perfect "crema" on top and are never bitter.
I now have no urge whatsoever to experiment. It works, it's consistent, and it's very flavorful.
Thank you Krups. Thank you Illy. Thank you Luigi (my best friend in France).
Posted by artandscience at February 18, 2007 07:39 AM