Different Types of Coffee Machines for Foodservices

The right cup of coffee can only happen when you have the right equipment to brew some grounds. Before asking, what is the best method for brewing coffee?, start with learning more about the various machines used to make coffee. Below, we will go over the different types of coffee machines for food services and what businesses they are optimal for. We also have included some general instructions on how to use coffee machines for each type. 

Don’t forget about routine maintenance! Check out our guide on how to clean a commercial coffee machine for properly maintained equipment.

Do’s & Don’ts

Here are some essential do’s and don’t when it comes to coffee makers:

• Do routine cleaning & maintenance
• Do descale the machine according to the manufacturer’s instructions
• Do use filtered water to avoid limescale build-up
• Do check water levels
• Don’t use old or stale coffee beans
• Don’t overfill the machine
• Don’t leave coffee grounds in the machine
• Don’t forget to maintain any filters

Different Types of Coffee Machines

Drip Coffee Maker

Drip coffee makers work by dripping hot water over coffee grounds in a filter, then passing through into a carafe or pot. These machines provide consistent brewing and also brew larger quantities at once. A drip machine is great for foodservice businesses that need multiple cups at once, like restaurants, hotels, hospitality and diners. 

Using a drip coffee maker is easy, and it starts with filling the water reservoir. Add a filter and the appropriate amount of coffee grounds to the filter. Then, just close the lid and turn on the machine.

Espresso Machine

Espresso machines are versatile units that are used for espresso shots and espresso-based drinks. They work by forcing hot water through coffee grounds, usually under high pressure. Then, the machine pushes the concentrated shot of espresso into the cup or vessel you put below the spout. These machines are great for fine dining, coffee shops, bakeries, restaurants and more. 

How to use these units depends on the type of espresso machine. There are manual, semi-automatic, automatic, and super-automatic models. Typically, you fill a portafilter with finely ground coffee, tamp it down evenly, and lock it into the machine. You press a brew button or lever and allow the machine to do its job. Once finished brewing, you remove the portafilter and discard the used grounds. Don’t forget about espresso machine maintenance & cleaning to keep units in top working condition. 

Pour-Over Coffee Maker

These makers work by manually pouring hot water over coffee grounds in a filter. It allows the water to saturate the grounds and slowly drip through into a cup or container. Pour-over makers are great for smaller cafes and coffee shops, allowing customers to be interactive in the brewing process and enjoy a flavorful cup. These are also great for catering since they are portable and easy to use. 

Using a pour-over coffee maker is simple. Just fill the dripper with a filter and the desired coffee grounds. Then, slowly pour heated water over the grounds in a circular motion, starting from the center and moving outwards. 

French Press

This coffee maker works by steeping coarsely ground coffee in hot water for several minutes, then a metal mesh plunger is pressed down to separate the grounds from the liquid. A French press works well in food service businesses like cafes and coffee shops, but also cafes that offer artisanal coffees. 

To use a French press, add coarse grounds to the carafe, then pour hot water over the grounds. Place the lid on with the plunger up and wait for it to steep. Once ready, press the plunger down to separate the grounds and then pour into a cup or container. 

Cold Brew Coffee Maker

Cold brew makers are essential for small cafes and artisanal coffee shops. They work by steeping coarsely ground coffee in cold water for an extended period of time or even overnight. The grounds are normally in a filter or mesh basket, which is removed after steeping. These makers are great for cafes and coffee shops, but also for hotel buffets as well. 

Using a cold-brew coffee maker is simple. Add coarse grounds to the filter or mesh basket, then place it into the brewer with cold water. Stir the grounds to ensure they are saturated, then cover and set it in a refrigeration unit. After steeping, remove the filter or basket and pour the concentrate into a carafe or container. 

Single-Serve Coffee Maker

These machines normally work by using pre-packaged, compatible coffee pods. The machine punctures the pod and pushes hot water through the grounds, then into any container below the spout. These machines are great for hotels, buffet restaurants, hospitality and smaller food service businesses. 

To use a single-serve coffee maker, fill the water reservoir and place a coffee pod or capsule into the pod compartment. Close the compartment lid, place a cup or container under the spout and select the desired brew strength or size. Some machines have operators press a brew button, and then after the unit will do the rest. Don’t forget to discard the pod after brewing.