9 replies to this topic

[Rorschach]

I need to get a new coffee grinder. I think I want one of those burr type grinders. Any specific recommendations from the many coffee connoisseurs I know are out there? My initial idea was just to buy it at the local Starbucks, but I'll probably pay too much.

[arfenarf]

Are you wanting to make espresso, or drip coffee?

For espresso, you're looking at something along the lines of the Baratza Virtuoso, Rancilio Rocky, or the like. I have a Virtuoso and am very pleased with it (got it at Starbucks). The less expensive burr grinders are very inconsistent and will drive you nuts as you try to dial in a good shot. You won't need to be as fussy if you're making drip or French Press brew.

Have a look at www.coffeegeek.com for more reviews than you can shake a stick at.

[Ms. B. Havin]

ABC Electric sells coffee makers & grinders, plus combos, including the Saeco brand. The guy in charge can tell you all about different grinders, how they work/ interact with different bean sizes/ coffees, etc.

[Holden West]

Mrs. H. West has a beautiful Starbucks coffee grinder and Bodum coffee press that were given to her by an acquaintance that worked at Starbucks. Soon afterward, Starbucks fired this person. I suspect the two events may have been related.

[Rorschach]

I want it just to make drip coffee. I have a nice coffee maker with the #4 cone filters. I think I'm going to make a trip to ABC Electric. Starbucks has enough bucks so I want to patronize a local business.

Thanks everyone.

[arfenarf]

Good stuff! I hope you find just the right thing at ABC. They always impress me with their ability to repair stuff that other stores would just tell you to junk.

If you're ever looking for specialty coffee/espresso gear and want to support a BC business, I can't say enough good things about the folks at http://espressotec.com/ They're based in Vancouver and have every little thing your heart could desire. Except a LRT system for Victoria, of course.

[Nparker]

...I can't say enough good things about the folks at http://espressotec.com/. [They] have every little thing your heart could desire. Except an LRT system for Victoria, of course.

Perhaps they have the bean-grinder equivalent of BRT: a rock to smash against the coffee beans until something like the desired consistency is achieved - or one gives up in frustration, whichever comes first. Sure the process is messy, inefficient and will likely encourage most people to buy their coffee pre-ground, but until you can prove the need for one of them "fancy electric grinders", this is all Victoria(ns) really need.

[Caramia]

I have never found a grinder that does what my little non electric hand grinder does. Mind you, my grinder is over 60 years old. But I swear it makes a huge difference to the taste of each cup!

[Rorschach]

ABC Electric didn't have any grinders today. They had plenty of nice coffee makers and espresso machines - but no grinders. I'm off to the Internet.

[Holden West]

http://www.antiqbuyer.com/coffee.html