Visitors from ESI

We ended up rallying for the day trip to Philly yesterday, hitting up Chestnut Hill Coffee Co and Milkboy. Both shops were impressive in terms of design and execution, and it was fun tracking down John Hornall. Unfortunately Hornall was in the Pacific Northwest at the time, but it was still cool to check out the new digs. The space is really beautiful, with two floors of spacious hardwood and leather surrounding a modest and clean bar equipped with a 3 group Linea. The neighborhood Chestnut Hill is a really interesting mix of 19th century buildings and homes, interspersed between high end retail shops and specialty restaurants. It's a high end hood, and Chestnut Hill Coffee Co fits right in. Unfortunately I couldn't be bothered to return to the car for my camera, so if you're interested in visuals, e-mail Owens.

On another note I had the pleasure of spending time with Kent Bakke of ESI, who arrived in our shop today with his (our) Northeast Regional Sales Manager Michael Del Gatto. Both of whom are top notch industry specialists. Though excited to simply get decent espresso here in the city, Kent was particularly interested in our feedback on the GB5. "Your feedback?" you ask? Yes, my feedback. My humble opinion was respectfully acknowledged today and I was happy to tell him what a workhorse the GB5 has been. I also made a point of informing him of our two gripes with the machine, the shallow (and sharp) drip tray, and the wiring harness on the power to the groups that slowly dislodges itself after 3-4 weeks of use. Kent dutifully made notes of my issues, and the conversation moved on to grinder technology.

I have a feeling that Kent's arrival in NY was simply a layover on his way to the NBC, but I hope we get the pleasure of having him again. It was a joy talking to the man personally responsible for La Marzocco's in the U.S.