Are you thinking of starting a home-based coffee shop? You’ve been probably wondering, “What kind of equipment do I need?”. Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered. I spent years behind the counter serving coffee as a professional barista and here are some things that you will need. Ultimately, don’t settle for home use-case-only espresso machines and accessories, and be open to prosumer models.
The Must-Haves
1. Espresso Machine
This is the heart of your home-based coffee shop. An espresso machine makes the base (espresso) for most coffee drinks, like lattes, cappuccinos, and macchiatos. It’s a big investment, but totally worth it because great coffee starts with great espresso. A high-quality espresso machine, from brands like Rocket, Sanremo, and ECM can be conveniently bought online from stores like Pro Coffee Gear or SCG.
2. Coffee Grinder
Freshly ground coffee tastes better, and a tuned grinder helps you achieve that. You’ll need a good quality grinder that can handle the daily grind (pun intended) of your shop. The Mahlkonig X54 grinder is recommended for those who want the dual-ability to grind for espresso as well as regular coffee beans.
3. Milk Frother
Many coffee drinks like lattes and cappuccinos require frothed milk. A milk frother helps you steam and froth milk to make these creamy drinks. Some espresso machines come with built-in frothers, but you can also buy a separate one.
4. Refrigerator and Freezer
You’ll need these to store milk, cream, and other perishable items. A fridge is essential for keeping everything fresh.
5. Blender
Blended drinks like frappés and smoothies are popular, especially in warmer weather. A high-quality blender can make a big difference in the texture and taste of these drinks.
The Nice-to-Haves
1. Point of Sale (POS) System
A POS system helps you manage sales, track inventory, and keep records of your transactions. It can also help speed up service, which your customers will love.
2. Water Filtration System
Good coffee starts with good water. A water filtration system ensures that your water is clean and free of impurities, which can make your coffee taste better.
3. Oven or Toaster
If you plan to serve pastries or other baked goods, an oven or toaster will come in handy. Freshly baked items can be a big draw for customers.
The Little Extras
1. Cups, Lids, and Sleeves
You’ll need plenty of cups, lids, and sleeves for to-go orders. Make sure to have a variety of sizes and consider eco-friendly options.
2. Napkins and Stir Sticks
These little things can make a big difference in customer satisfaction. Keep plenty of napkins and stir sticks on hand.
3. Cleaning Supplies
A clean shop and kitchen is a happy home-based coffee shop. Stock up on cleaning supplies to keep your space sparkling and inviting.
