When you start looking beyond the mainstream espresso machine brands, you quickly find La Spaziale. This Italian manufacturer has been crafting commercial and prosumer machines for decades, and their reputation for durability and temperature stability is top-tier. Unlike some flashier competitors, La Spaziale focuses on engineering excellence, often incorporating features from their commercial line directly into home models. Their unique smaller 53mm portafilter is a signature element, designed for faster heat-up and a different extraction dynamic compared to the common 58mm standard.
I’ve spent time with several of their machines, and the experience is consistently impressive. They are built like tanks, with a focus on consistent performance shot after shot. For home baristas who value precision and reliability over flashy touchscreens, La Spaziale espresso machines are a compelling choice. They often include dual boilers and advanced PID temperature control as standard, features you’d typically pay much more for from other brands. If you’re serious about your home espresso, this is a brand that deserves a close look.
La Spaziale Espresso Machines: Top Models Reviewed
La Spaziale S1 Dream T
If you want the robust performance of the Vivaldi but with more modern conveniences, the La Spaziale S1 Dream T is the answer. This model adds a sophisticated digital PID temperature controller to both boilers, giving you precise control displayed right on the front panel. I find this level of accuracy fantastic for experimenting with different roast levels, as you can easily adjust the brew temperature in one-degree increments. It also includes programmable volumetric shot dosing, which is a game-changer for consistency—once you set your desired output volume, the machine stops the shot automatically.
Beyond the tech, it retains all the great mechanical foundations of the Vivaldi, including the dual boilers and saturated group. The steam power is identical, which is to say it’s powerful and dry, perfect for creating silky microfoam. The Dream T feels like a machine that can grow with you. You can start using the volumetric controls for ease, but everything is still accessible manually if you want to hone your skills. The main trade-off is the higher price point, but for me, the added precision and programmability justify the cost if you’re a frequent espresso drinker.
Pros
- Precise digital PID control for both brew and steam boilers
- Programmable volumetric shot dosing for hands-free operation
- Retains all the professional-grade mechanical components
Cons
- Higher price point than the analog Vivaldi II
- The digital interface has a slight learning curve
La Spaziale S5 Lucca
The La Spaziale S5 Lucca is a specific version often sold by Clive Coffee, and it brings some unique aesthetic and functional twists to the table. Based on the S1 chassis, it features a more minimalist and modern design with rounded corners and different color options. What I like about this model is that it often comes pre-configured with a 53mm bottomless portafilter, which is great for visually diagnosing your extractions. It combines the dual-boiler reliability and saturated group head we expect from La Spaziale with a curated package that’s ready to go out of the box.
Performance-wise, it’s every bit as capable as the Dream T, with dual PID controls and programmable volumetric dosing. The difference is largely in the branding and the support package from the retailer. For someone who values a specific look and wants the security of buying from a dedicated coffee equipment specialist, the S5 Lucca is a fantastic option. It eliminates the guesswork about which accessories to get first. Just be aware that as a retailer-specific model, its availability and bundled items might vary, so it’s worth checking what’s included at the time of purchase.
Pros
- Sleek, modern design that stands out from the standard industrial look
- Often comes with valuable accessories like a bottomless portafilter
- Same professional-grade internal components as the S1 line
Cons
- Availability is tied to specific retailers
- May have a slightly different feature set depending on the bundle
La Spaziale S1 Mini Vivaldi II
The La Spaziale S1 Mini Vivaldi II is often considered the workhorse of the lineup. I appreciate its no-nonsense approach; it’s a dual-boiler machine through and through, giving you the ability to steam milk and pull a shot simultaneously without any temperature drop. The 2.1-liter steam boiler and 0.8-liter coffee boiler are generously sized for a home machine, meaning you can make several milk-based drinks in a row without waiting. The saturated group head is a pro feature that ensures excellent thermal stability for each extraction, which is something I really notice in the cup—the shots are consistently balanced.
One thing that takes a little getting used to is the 53mm portafilter. It’s not the 58mm standard you see everywhere, so your existing tampers and dosing tools might not fit. However, I found that this smaller size heats up incredibly quickly and can produce fantastic espresso. The machine’s physical footprint is also relatively compact for a dual boiler, which is a huge plus for kitchens with limited counter space. The controls are straightforward mechanical switches, which I prefer for their tactile feedback and long-term reliability over digital touchpads.
Pros
- True simultaneous brew and steam with dual boilers
- Excellent temperature stability from the saturated group head
- Surprisingly compact footprint for its capabilities
Cons
- Non-standard 53mm portafilter requires specific accessories
- Basic analog interface lacks programmable shot timing
La Spaziale Espresso Machines: Reviews of Top Models
When I started looking for a serious espresso machine, the name La Spaziale kept coming up. These Italian-made machines are a staple in many small cafes, but they’ve also become a favorite for home baristas who want commercial-grade quality. If you’re considering one, here’s a look at what makes them special and a breakdown of their top models.
The first thing to know is that La Spaziale machines often use a slightly different portafilter size than the standard 58mm. They use a 53mm group head. This isn’t a downside; it just means you need to buy accessories specifically for that size. The benefit, many argue, is a faster heat-up time and more even water distribution across the coffee puck.
One of the most popular models for home use is the S1 Mini Vivaldi II. This is a compact dual boiler machine, which is a huge deal. A dual boiler means you can brew espresso and steam milk at the same time without a drop in temperature or pressure. It’s a workhorse. The steam power is impressive, and it has programmable volumetric controls, so you can set your shot lengths perfectly. It’s a fantastic choice if you make multiple milk-based drinks back-to-back.
Stepping up, there’s the S1 Dream. It shares the same dual boiler foundation as the Mini but adds a larger steam boiler and a more advanced control panel with a digital display. This gives you even more precision over your brewing and steaming. It’s a great middle-ground for someone who wants more control without jumping to a full commercial unit.
For the ultimate home setup, the S1 Vivaldi is the top-tier model. It offers the largest footprint and the most powerful performance, with commercial-style components built to last. It’s the machine you buy if you’re serious about your coffee and entertain frequently.
Before you decide, think about your routine. If you mostly drink straight espresso and make one cappuccino a day, a heat exchanger machine might be sufficient. But if you regularly serve lattes to family and friends, the dual boiler system in these La Spaziale espresso machines is a game-changer. Also, consider the 53mm portafilter. It’s not a problem, but it’s something to be aware of when shopping for tampers and baskets.
FAQ
What is the difference between the La Spaziale S1 Mini and the S1 Dream?
The main differences come down to size and control. The S1 Mini is more compact, making it ideal for kitchens with limited counter space. The S1 Dream has a larger steam boiler, which means even more power for steaming milk, and it features a digital display for more precise programming of shot volumes and temperatures. Both are excellent dual boiler machines, but the Dream offers a bit more power and programmability.
Why does La Spaziale use a 53mm portafilter instead of 58mm?
This is a design choice unique to La Spaziale. The company believes the 53mm size allows for faster heat-up and more consistent water pressure across the coffee puck. While it means you need specific accessories, many users appreciate the performance. It’s different, but not a disadvantage.
Are La Spaziale machines good for beginners?
They can be, but there’s a learning curve. These are prosumer machines with a lot of power and features. A beginner will need to learn about grind size, dose, and tamping to get good results. However, the programmable volumetric controls are a big help. Once you dial in a good shot, you can program the machine to replicate it consistently, which simplifies the process after the initial setup.
How is the reliability and customer support for La Spaziale?
La Spaziale machines have a reputation for being very reliable and built with high-quality, commercial-grade components. They are designed to last for many years. Customer support often depends on the retailer you purchase from, so it’s a good idea to buy from an authorized dealer known for good service. Parts are generally accessible for repairs.
Can I plumb in a La Spaziale machine?
Yes, many of the S1 series models, including the Mini Vivaldi II and the Dream, are available in both reservoir and direct-plumb versions. If you know you want a permanent setup and want to avoid refilling a water tank, the plumbed-in version is a great option. You’ll need a water line and a drain, which is common for serious home coffee stations.
What should I look for when reading reviews of top La Spaziale espresso machines?
When checking out reviews of top La Spaziale models, pay attention to comments about daily use. Look for notes on heat-up time, steam power consistency, and ease of cleaning. Since these are serious machines, reviews that discuss long-term reliability and the quality of customer service from the seller are very valuable. This practical feedback can help you make a smart choice for your home.