Great Espresso from a Fab Looking Machine

like coffee, especially espresso. For a time I was happy with what I would get from the local coffee houses, however a trip to Italy a few years ago changed me. I finally understood what "real" espresso was all about.

Returning from Italy a changed man, I set out to recreate that coffee experience. I experimented in the past with those two-part contraptions that you put on the stove, as well as "Mr. Happy Shopper" type espresso machines, but the end product was nowhere near as good as what I tasted in Italy. I realised that I would have to up the ante.

Thanks to a timely bonus from my employer, I was finally able to get the Francis! Francis! X-1 - in red, of course. I paid about $540 for it (it was purchased in London - things are a bit more expensive here). I have to admit that what initially attracted me to this model was the good looks. The X-1 is a great looking, retro style machine. I chose the bright red because it goes well with our kitchen.

However, as in real life, looks are not everything. I did copious research, and for my taste the X-1 blended the aesthetic and functionality in a package to my liking. Granted, it comes at a price - it is not cheap - but you only live once!

My review is based on using the X-1 over a few days. If these first days are anything to go by, I am very, very satisfied.

Having upgraded from entry-level machines, the first thing I noticed was that the X-1 is heavy. I had to carry this thing home on the Tube during rush hour. However, that weight is reassuring - it is definitely not your entry-level espresso/cappuccino machine!

Mine was well packed. I ended up saving the packaging for when we move. (note - there is a cardboard support that needs to be used when you transport the X-1).

The instructions are very simple and easy to follow. In no time I had the X-1 unpacked and installed. The reservoir holds quite a bit of water. I can see where some users would get frustrated with the placement of the tank, however for me it really is not an issue - as I have access to the back of the machine.

I flushed the X-1 for a minute and a half as recommended, packed the filter with some pre-ground espresso, and the subsequent espresso that it produced was very good. Much better than the entry-level machines that I used in the past, and much better than the burned, bitter stuff that Starbucks serves.

I always had trouble getting decent foam when I used the cheap cappuccino makers, however it could not have been easier with the X-1. In no time at all I had nice frothy, creamy foam.

Trying my hand at cappuccino and lattés also gave excellent results - and I am just a novice!

Cleaning the unit is simple enough, but the drawer and tray cover seem a bit flimsy. In any event, this machine is not intended for industrial use, so I think it will be fine.

I have not yet tried the Illy pods that came with the X-1, but I do not foresee myself using this type of product too often.