What Type of Coffee Machine will you provide your guests?

Introduction

Imagine checking into your serviced accommodation after a long day travelling and wanting to take 5 minutes to relax over a cup of coffee before unpacking and checking out the area.  You go into the kitchen and are greeted by the coffee machine. Will it be a simple drip coffee maker, a French press, a cafetiere or a high-end espresso machine? As a host, providing the right type of coffee machine can make a significant difference in your guests' experience and satisfaction and, it can be overwhelming to decide which one to provide. 

Drip Coffee Maker

A drip coffee maker is a classic and straightforward option for a coffee machine in a Serviced Apartment. It's easy to use and can brew a large batch of coffee at once, making it ideal for accommodating several guests. Drip coffee makers come in various sizes and price ranges, from basic models to high-end machines with advanced features such as programmable brewing, adjustable strength settings and built-in grinders.

One of the main advantages of a drip coffee maker is its affordability and accessibility. You can easily find a decent model for under £50, making it a budget-friendly option for hosts. Moreover, drip coffee makers are low maintenance and easy to clean. Most models come with a removable filter basket that you can toss in the dishwasher, and the carafe and machine can be cleaned with soap and water.

However, drip coffee makers do have some downsides. They can be noisy, especially when brewing a full pot of coffee. Additionally, the coffee they produce may not be as flavourful or rich as other brewing methods and they may not have the same level of control over the brewing process.

Single-Serve Coffee Maker

Single-serve coffee makers, also known as pod coffee makers, have gained popularity in recent years, thanks to their convenience and ease of use. These machines use pre-packaged coffee pods or capsules to brew a single cup of coffee at a time. They come in various sizes and colours and some models have additional features such as milk frothers and hot water dispensers.

The main advantage of a single-serve coffee maker is its convenience. Guests can choose from a variety of coffee flavours and strengths with the machine brewing the perfect cup every time. Moreover, single-serve coffee makers are relatively compact and don't take up much counter space, making them ideal for smaller accommodation.

On the other hand, single-serve coffee makers can be costly, with some models requiring specific coffee pods or capsules that can add up over time. They also generate a lot of waste, as the pods are not always recyclable or biodegradable. Additionally, some guests may prefer a larger cup of coffee or the ability to brew multiple cups at once.

Cafetiere

Also known as a French press, a cafetiere is a simple device that uses a plunger and a mesh filter to brew ground coffee. It is a popular choice among coffee enthusiasts because it allows the guest to control the brewing process to suite their taste preference.

For smaller kitchens, a cafetiere could be the ideal choice as it takes up little space. Cleaning can be a little tricky as ground coffee can get stuck in the mesh filter but all parts can go in the dishwasher. 

A cafetiere could be the ideal choice for a host as it is the most affordable.

Espresso Machine

If you're looking to provide your guests with a high-end coffee experience, an espresso machine might be the way to go. Espresso machines can brew a variety of coffee drinks, from classic espressos to cappuccinos and lattes. They come in various sizes and price points, from compact models to professional-grade machines with advanced features.

The main advantage of an espresso machine is the quality of coffee it produces. Guests can enjoy rich, flavourful coffee drinks with a creamy froth and aroma. Additionally, espresso machines offer a level of control and customisation over the brewing process, allowing guests to adjust the strength, temperature and milk frothing to their liking.

However, espresso machines can be expensive, with some models costing £££. They can also be challenging to use, requiring some expertise and practice to master. Moreover, they require regular maintenance and cleaning to prevent clogging and ensure optimal performance.

Conclusion

Choosing the right type of coffee machine for your guests depends on several factors, such as your budget, the size of your accommodation and your guests' preferences. Drip coffee makers are a classic and affordable option, while single-serve coffee makers offer convenience and customisation. Espresso machines provide a high-end coffee experience, but they require expertise and maintenance and the Cafetiere is an all rounder.

Whichever type of coffee machine you choose, make sure to keep it clean and well-maintained. Provide your guests with high-quality coffee beans, pods or ground coffee and make sure they have everything they need to enjoy their coffee, such as milk and sugar. By providing your guests with a great coffee experience, you're sure to earn positive reviews and repeat bookings.