Home / The Meraki Journal

Coffee & Espresso Guides

Explore espresso guides, home barista tips, machine comparisons and maintenance advice from Meraki. Learn to brew better coffee and choose the right setup.

Latest from Meraki

Channeling in Espresso: Causes and Fixes

· October 12, 2026

Channeling in Espresso: Causes and Fixes

Espresso channeling occurs when water breaks through a weak spot in the coffee puck, causing uneven extraction that can taste both sour...
Espresso Dose: How Many Grams Per Shot?

· October 12, 2026

Espresso Dose: How Many Grams Per Shot?

Espresso dose is the weight of ground coffee in the basket, and keeping it consistent is the foundation of repeatable shots. Start...
What Is the Best Double Espresso Ratio?

· October 10, 2026

What Is the Best Double Espresso Ratio?

Discover the ideal double espresso ratio, from the classic 1:2 starting point to shorter and longer extractions. Learn how coffee dose, espresso...
Shot Mirrors: Watching a Bottomless Pour

· October 09, 2026

Shot Mirrors: Watching a Bottomless Pour

A shot mirror lets you watch a bottomless portafilter extraction without crouching beneath the machine. By reflecting the basket and stream into...
Panama Geisha for Espresso: A Rare, Floral Cup

· October 06, 2026

Panama Geisha for Espresso: A Rare, Floral Cup

Discover why Panama Geisha is one of specialty coffee’s most sought-after varieties. Known for jasmine-like florals, bergamot brightness, tea-like sweetness, and record-setting...
Kona Coffee for Espresso: Hawaii in a Cup

· October 06, 2026

Kona Coffee for Espresso: Hawaii in a Cup

Learn what makes authentic Kona coffee unique, from its protected Hawaiian origin and limited production to its smooth, mild flavor with nutty...
Lavender Latte: Floral Notes at Home

· October 04, 2026

Lavender Latte: Floral Notes at Home

A lavender latte combines espresso, steamed milk, and floral lavender syrup for a sweet, aromatic drink that rewards restraint. Learn how to...
Red Eye Coffee: Espresso Meets Drip

· October 04, 2026

Red Eye Coffee: Espresso Meets Drip

A red eye is a classic coffeehouse boost: brewed drip coffee finished with a fresh shot of espresso. Learn how to make...
Close-up of espresso flowing from a bottomless portafilter into a clear glass cup.

· October 03, 2026

What Does “Body” Mean in Espresso?

A practical guide to espresso body, including how mouthfeel differs from strength and crema, what creates tactile weight, how brew ratio and...
Espresso Cup Sizes: Picking Cups by Drink

· September 28, 2026

Espresso Cup Sizes: Picking Cups by Drink

Espresso cup size affects more than appearance — it influences drink ratio, temperature, foam space, and the overall coffee experience. From 2–3...
No Crema in Espresso: What It Signals

· September 27, 2026

No Crema in Espresso: What It Signals

No crema on your espresso? Don’t panic—it’s usually a useful diagnostic signal. Learn how stale beans, a coarse grind, or low pressure...
How to Make a Mocha at Home

· September 12, 2026

How to Make a Mocha at Home

Make a café-style mocha at home with espresso, chocolate, and silky steamed milk. Learn the best ratios, chocolate options, step-by-step mixing method,...
Pouring latte art into a white cup beside a black Meraki espresso machine

· June 17, 2025

4 Espresso Machine Recipes to Make at Home

Four practical espresso machine recipes for an iced Americano, iced cappuccino, affogato and dirty coffee, with measured steps and consistency tips.