Quick answer
Start with the Baratza Encore ESP set near its espresso range, then adjust grind size in small steps until your Bambino Plus shot tastes balanced. Pairing these two machines gives you a compact home espresso starter setup with a dedicated espresso grinder.
Why this pairing works for a first espresso setup
The Baratza Encore ESP is built for espresso-focused grinding, while the Bambino Plus handles the brewing and milk side. Together they cover the two variables that matter most: consistent grind and stable extraction. The bundle listing pairs the grinder with the Bambino Plus, so you are not mixing a general-purpose grinder with an espresso machine that needs finer, repeatable adjustments.
One trade-off is that you are working with two separate machines, so you will need counter space for both and a routine that keeps the grinder dialed in. The Encore ESP is not a commercial grinder, so expect to re-check your setting when you change beans or the roast ages.
What the Bambino Plus expects from your grind
The Bambino Plus uses a 54mm stainless steel portafilter with an 18-gram coffee dose, and its automatic steam wand is designed to make microfoam hands-free. That 18-gram dose is your anchor: keep it consistent while you change grind size, or you will chase two variables at once. If your shots run too fast and taste sour, grind finer; if they run slow and taste bitter, grind coarser. Make one change at a time and taste before adjusting again.
Step-by-step setup and dial-in
- Set up both machines: Place the Encore ESP and Bambino Plus on a stable counter with room for the hopper and portafilter. Fill the water tank, plug in both machines, and let the Bambino Plus heat up. Common mistake: skipping the warm-up and pulling a shot on a cold machine, which makes your first shots taste thin. Check that the drip tray and portafilter are seated before your first shot.
- Start with a medium-fine grind: Set the Encore ESP to a medium-fine setting in its espresso range and grind 18 grams into the portafilter basket. Common mistake: starting at the finest setting, which can choke the shot and leave you guessing. Weigh the dose so you know your 18-gram baseline.
- Distribute and tamp evenly: Level the grounds in the basket, then tamp straight down with firm, even pressure. Common mistake: tamping at an angle, which creates uneven extraction and channeling. A level bed matters more than how hard you press.
- Pull a test shot and time it: Lock the portafilter into the Bambino Plus and run a shot, noting the time from first drip to finish. Common mistake: judging only by time and not tasting, since time is a guide, not a rule. Write down the grind setting and shot time so you can compare the next attempt.
- Adjust grind in small steps: If the shot runs fast and tastes sour, move the Encore ESP one or two steps finer. If it runs slow and tastes bitter, move coarser. Common mistake: making large jumps that overshoot the sweet spot. Change only grind size between shots; keep dose and tamp the same.
- Steam milk with the automatic wand: Fill the steam pitcher to the recommended level, place the wand, and start the automatic steam cycle. Common mistake: overfilling the pitcher, which leaves little room for microfoam to form. Clean the wand right after steaming to keep it working smoothly.
Product facts
- Baratza Encore™ ESP x the Bambino® Plus: Special bundle includes the Baratza Encore ESP precision grinder and the Bambino Plus espresso machine. You get a matched grinder-and-machine starting point instead of buying each piece separately.
Baratza Encore™ ESP x the Bambino® Plus
