I did not consume My first cup of coffee wasn't until the ripe age of 24, when I was forced to attend an ad-hoc cupping session by a former employer. At first I found the taste of black coffee disgusting, but my small-chain coffee shop employer wouldn't cover the cost of more delicious options like the Minty Mocha Freeze, so my taste buds were forced to adapt. I slowly learned to enjoy the ritual of making fresh coffee in the morning, and when I visited my parents during the holidays I soon began to enjoy the opportunity to hang out and drink coffee with my father all day. Used to do it. Just two guys drinking Folgers from Krusty Mister Coffee during reruns NCIS And Law & Order: SVU Broadcast continuously on television.
I eventually moved to Portland, Oregon, during the height of the so-called “third wave” of coffee and got a job at a high-volume café and bakery. At this point my coffee consumption changed from a physical necessity to a more deliberate, specific experience. Roasters like Stumptown and Cova taught me about the principles of extraction, black Rabbit Taught me how to clean and maintain my shop La Marzocco, and how to install shutters from then on seattle coffee gear Outpost piqued my interest in the ever-expanding universe of grinders, brewers, boilers, and doodads that promise the perfect cup of coffee in all kinds of scenarios.
Whether your budget is $4 or $400, there's no shortage of thoughtful gadgets that make excellent gifts for family, friends, or total strangers in the highly competitive white elephant exchange. We've only included products and accessories that our team has personally tested, vetted, and used to make your own coffee at home.
Be sure to check us out Many Other Buying GuidesWe've got a few coffee-related guides, including our Preferred Cold-Brew Coffee Maker, espresso machines, portable espresso makerAnd Cappuccino Machines,
UPDATED December 2024: We've added a scale, thermometer, mug, pitcher, scale, kettle and knock box, as well as updated links and prices.
Former WIRED reviewer Jana Gray contributed to this guide.
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