Can we talk about that awkward moment when your espresso machine dies mid-pull?

I was at my kitchen counter last Tuesday, pulling a shot for my neighbor who wanted to try my fresh roast. Right as the crema was forming, the pump just quit with a sad hum and nothing came out. I ended up having to serve him drip coffee from a French press that took 12 minutes to steep, and he was nice about it but I could tell he was let down. Has anyone else had a machine fail at the worst possible time and how did you handle it without looking like a total mess?

2 comments

2 Comments

keithharris1mo ago

My Breville was three years old when it did the exact same thing last fall, right when my dad was over for his birthday and I promised him a proper cortado. I was so embarrassed I ran to the microwave and made instant coffee, which he drank politely but I could tell he was confused. I used to think those high end machines were mostly for show, like people just wanted the badge on the counter, but after that day I realized how much I actually relied on the consistent pressure and timing. Now I stock a backup Aeropress in the drawer and I've learned to laugh it off when things go wrong, because the machine failing doesn't mean the coffee is ruined.

mason8471mo ago

That Aeropress is a lifesaver, I keep one in my glovebox just in case.