It's my desire to create a shop setting that returns the customer to an earlier era, a time that appreciated the skill and time required to produce a superior product. The location I am considering is a former pharmacy located behind the local hospital ER, next to all the private doctors' clinics. With my love for the Golden era of the 1930's, and my appreciation for Art Deco design, it felt right to consider recreating the old soda fountain/drug store of days gone by. However, instead of the soda jerk working the fountain, I would have a barista operating an espresso machine.
The only machines I have seen that remotely appeal to me, and that would fit the image of the shop I envision, are the Athena, and the Astoria Rapallo. I have read Alun Evans' blog post on the Rapallo. Both seem like wonderful machines. But I still have questions.
What other manufacturers make a commercial-grade 2-group lever machine?
What about using a gas-fired machine?
Do these machines use standard 58mm baskets?
I tend to be obsessive about procedure, and thus, training...I know that the limiting factor of the lever is employee knowledge and training. I am committed to getting this part right. But who trains the trainer (me)? Who offers service for these machines?
I probably have more questions to follow.
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