Here are 5 simple tips for those of you who are new to pulling shots on a single boiler semi-automatic machine.  Some of the most popular espresso machines are the Gaggia Classic and Rancilio Silvia but these tips should be helpful with many other units as well.   

1. FRESH 

You always want to use the freshest beans possible and grind them just before brewing. Even a few minutes can make a difference.  So you really want to take your fresh ground coffee right from the grinder directly to tampin...