For coffee enthusiasts, the pursuit of the perfect espresso is much more than just brewing a quick shot of caffeine—it’s a cherished ritual, a meditative process that brings the café experience into the comfort of your own home. The Diletta Bello+, a premium espresso machine handcrafted in Italy, is designed to elevate this daily ritual to new heights, offering both the precision and aesthetic appeal that serious coffee lovers crave. Priced at nearly $2,000, the Diletta Bello+ represents a significant investment, but for those who value quality, craftsmanship, and the pursuit of espresso perfection, it promises to be a rewarding addition to any kitchen. In this comprehensive review, we’ll delve into the features, performance, and overall experience of using the Diletta Bello+, exploring what makes it a standout choice for aspiring baristas and seasoned coffee aficionados alike.
- Durable Build: Robust stainless steel construction.
- Precise Temperature: PID controller for consistent shots.
- High-Quality Steam Wand: Ideal for creating microfoam and latte art.
- Hands-On Operation: Engaging manual lever and pressure gauge.
- Elegant Design: Stylish retro aesthetic fits any kitchen.
- Expensive: Priced around $1,899.
- Bulky: Large and heavy, requiring ample counter space.
- Slow Warm-Up: Takes over 13 minutes to heat up.
- Steep Learning Curve: Requires practice to perfect.
- Manual Process: Less convenient for those preferring automation.
A Machine with Character: Design and Build Quality
The Diletta Bello+ immediately makes an impression with its robust build and timeless design. Handcrafted in Milan, this espresso machine is a work of art, blending form and function seamlessly. The stainless steel body exudes a retro charm that harkens back to the classic espresso machines found in traditional Italian cafés. This is not just a kitchen appliance; it’s a statement piece that elevates the aesthetic of any space it occupies.
However, the Diletta Bello+ is more than just good looks. The craftsmanship behind this machine is evident in its solid construction and attention to detail. Every component feels substantial, from the heavy-duty portafilter to the articulated steam and hot water wands. The 3-liter removable water tank, while not immediately visible, is a testament to the machine’s practicality, allowing users to pull multiple shots without the hassle of constant refilling. The wands themselves are made of high-quality materials and offer a full range of motion, making it easy to steam milk for lattes or dispense hot water for an Americano.
A particularly striking feature of the Diletta Bello+ is its mechanical brew lever. Unlike many modern espresso machines that rely on push-button controls, the Diletta Bello+ uses a manual lever that provides a tactile connection to the brewing process. This lever doesn’t just control an electric switch; it engages a mechanical operation that you can feel as you start and stop the flow of water. This level of engagement gives the user a sense of control and satisfaction, reinforcing the machine’s professional-grade feel.
The analog pressure gauge is another nod to the machine’s manual roots, offering real-time feedback on the brewing process. This gauge is an invaluable tool for those looking to fine-tune their espresso-making skills, as it helps diagnose issues with grind size or tamping pressure, ensuring that each shot is as close to perfect as possible.
Precision Brewing: Mastering the Craft with the Diletta Bello+
The Diletta Bello+ is designed for those who take their espresso seriously. It’s a machine that rewards precision and consistency, making it ideal for users who are willing to invest time in mastering their craft. Unlike more automated machines, the Diletta Bello+ doesn’t offer shortcuts; instead, it challenges you to pay attention to every detail of the brewing process.
One of the key features that sets the Diletta Bello+ apart from other espresso machines is its PID (Proportional-Integral-Derivative) controller. This digital controller allows you to fine-tune the temperature of the steam boiler, which is crucial for achieving the perfect extraction. The PID controller also lets you adjust the pre-infusion time, a critical step in the espresso-making process that involves saturating the coffee grounds with water before the full extraction begins. By customizing these settings, users can tailor each shot to their exact preferences, whether they prefer a bolder, more intense flavor or a smoother, more balanced profile.
The PID controller on the Diletta Bello+ also doubles as a shot timer, providing valuable feedback during the brewing process. This feature is particularly useful for those who are still honing their technique, as it allows them to track the duration of each shot and make adjustments as needed. The ability to monitor and control every aspect of the brewing process is what makes the Diletta Bello+ a powerful tool for improving your barista skills.
However, it’s important to note that the Diletta Bello+ is not a forgiving machine. Its high sensitivity to grind size and tamping pressure means that even small variations can result in noticeable differences in the quality of your espresso. If your grind is too fine, the machine will struggle to push water through, leading to a bitter, over-extracted shot. On the other hand, if the grind is too coarse, the water will flow too quickly, producing a weak, under-extracted shot. While this may sound daunting, it’s actually one of the Diletta Bello+’s greatest strengths—it forces you to refine your technique and develop a deeper understanding of the espresso-making process.
The steam wand is another highlight of the Diletta Bello+, offering professional-grade performance for creating milk-based drinks like lattes and cappuccinos. The wand is capable of producing thick, velvety microfoam, which is essential for creating latte art. Even alternative milks like oat milk, which are notoriously difficult to froth, are no match for this powerful wand. The hot water wand, located on the opposite side of the machine, is perfect for making Americanos or preparing tea, further expanding the machine’s versatility.
The Espresso Experience: A Ritual to Savor
Using the Diletta Bello+ is not just about making coffee—it’s about engaging in a ritual that transforms your morning routine into a moment of calm and focus. From grinding the beans to tamping the grounds, every step of the process requires attention to detail and a steady hand. But for those who enjoy the art of espresso, this machine offers an unparalleled experience.
The Diletta Bello+ is not a machine for those who are always in a rush. With a warm-up time of around 13 minutes, it requires patience and a willingness to slow down and savor the process. However, this slower pace is part of what makes the Diletta Bello+ so special. It encourages you to take your time, to focus on the task at hand, and to fully appreciate the craftsmanship and skill that goes into making the perfect shot of espresso.
Once the machine is warmed up and ready to brew, the experience becomes truly rewarding. The sound of the mechanical lever engaging, the sight of the rich, amber-colored espresso flowing into the cup, and the aroma of freshly brewed coffee all combine to create a sensory experience that is unmatched by more automated machines. The Diletta Bello+ invites you to be present in the moment, to enjoy the process as much as the final product.
One of the challenges of using the Diletta Bello+ is mastering the art of steaming milk. While the machine’s steam wand is highly capable, it requires practice to achieve the perfect microfoam for latte art. However, once you’ve developed the necessary skills, the results are well worth the effort. The ability to create intricate designs on the surface of your latte adds a personal touch to each cup, turning a simple drink into a work of art.
The Diletta Bello+ is also equipped with an eco mode, which reduces the machine’s power consumption when it’s not in use. While this feature is useful for energy-saving purposes, it’s worth noting that it doesn’t significantly speed up the heat-up time when you need to brew another shot. For those who drink multiple cups of espresso throughout the day, it may be more convenient to leave the machine on at all times, ensuring that it’s always ready to brew at a moment’s notice.
The Investment: A Commitment to Quality
At nearly $2,000, the Diletta Bello+ is a significant investment, and it’s important to consider whether it’s the right choice for you. This machine is designed for those who are serious about their coffee and who are willing to invest both time and money into perfecting their craft. It’s not a machine for the casual coffee drinker or for those who are looking for a quick and easy way to make espresso.
However, for those who value quality and craftsmanship, the Diletta Bello+ offers an unparalleled espresso-making experience. The machine’s precision controls, robust build, and beautiful design make it a joy to use, while its manual operation and customizable settings allow users to create espresso that is perfectly tailored to their preferences.
The Diletta Bello+ is a machine that requires a commitment to learning and practice, but for those who are willing to put in the effort, the rewards are immense. It’s a machine that will grow with you as you refine your skills, offering new opportunities for experimentation and discovery with each cup. Over time, the Diletta Bello+ becomes more than just a tool for making coffee—it becomes a trusted companion on your journey to espresso perfection.
Conclusion: The Art of Espresso, Perfected
The Diletta Bello+ is more than just an espresso machine—it’s an invitation to explore the art of coffee-making in its purest form. With its precise controls, professional-grade components, and timeless design, it offers a coffee-making experience that is as satisfying as the espresso it produces. While it may not be the right choice for everyone, for those who are passionate about their coffee and who appreciate the beauty of a well-crafted machine, the Diletta Bello+ is a worthy investment that will bring the Italian café experience into your home, one shot at a time.
In the end, the Diletta Bello+ is about more than just making coffee—it’s about embracing a ritual, honing a craft, and discovering the joy that comes from creating something truly exceptional. Whether you’re an experienced barista or a coffee enthusiast looking to take your skills to the next level, the Diletta Bello+ offers a journey of discovery that is as rich and rewarding as the espresso it brews.
Specifications of the Diletta Bello+ Espresso Machine
- Type of Coffee Maker: Manual espresso machine
- Skill Level: Intermediate
- Boiler Volume: 1.8 liters
- Water Reservoir Size: 3 liters
- Material: Stainless steel
- Dimensions: 11 x 17.75 x 14.5 inches (279 x 450.85 x 368 mm)
- Weight: 45 lbs (20.4 kg)
- Power Cord Length: 4 feet
- Brew Time: 13:30 (warm-up time); 20-30 seconds per shot
- Programming Options: Steam boiler temperature, pre-infusion time, eco mode, standby mode
- PID Controller: Yes, for precise temperature control and shot timing
- Pressure Gauge: Analog, for monitoring brewing pressure
- Steam Wand: Articulated, capable of producing microfoam for latte art
- Hot Water Wand: Yes, for making Americanos or tea
- Cup Warmer: Integrated on top of the machine
- Noise Level: Average of 65 dB
- Price: Approximately $1,899
