We’re doing a series of product reviews here on Wit & Delight where I offer more in-depth information on tried and true products I’ve been using for months (or years) that have changed my daily routine for the better. These reviews are intended to provide detailed information on products that may be of interest to you, so if and when you’re in the market for such an item, you have the info you need to decide whether or not to make a purchase.

Next up on the list? The De’Longhi La Specialista Espresso Machine we’ve owned since the end of 2020. Let’s dive into the review, and please let me know in the comments if you have any further questions!

When and why did you first get your De’Longhi La Specialista?

I got the De’Longhi La Specialista Espresso Machine in December 2020. It was gifted to me as part of a previous partnership, and we’ve genuinely loved it so much that we’ve used it nearly every day since. In fact, when De’Longhi approached us with the partnership, I’d already been researching espresso machine options to buy. Our coffee maker was on its last leg and I knew it would be really nice to have a machine I could use to make my beloved Americanos at home.

How does it fit into your daily routine?

Making myself an Americano is one of the first things I do in the morning, and I usually end up making two or three each day. My routine for the past month or so has been getting up around 6 a.m., feeding the dogs and letting them out, having a cup of coffee, doing some sort of movement, and meditating. It’s such a nice way to start the day.

The machine comes with single and double filter baskets. I always make a double (which creates a drink that fits in a standard mug), since I find that the single-size Americano is a little smaller than I prefer. You can use the machine to make other espresso-based drinks like lattes and cappuccinos as well.

What are your favorite elements of the De’Longhi La Specialista?

There are so many things I like about this machine. First off, it makes high-quality, coffee shop-esque drinks. I also like:

• How well the grinder works, and the resulting aroma.
• How easy the tamping feature is to use.
• How easy the machine is to descale when needed.
• The large size of the water tank. If I’m just making Americanos and Joe’s not really using it, the water will last a week.
• How beautiful it looks sitting out (not always the case for a small appliance).
• How well it’s held up. After more than a year of frequent use, it still works exactly the same.

Is there anything you dislike?

With an espresso machine like this, it’s helpful to keep in mind that there is a small amount of maintenance that’s required. It does need to be descaled with regularity (there’s a light that comes on to indicate this) and you need to make sure you’re rinsing out the basket after each use.

I’ve also found that if a tiny bit of coffee grounds get in the pinhole of the portafilter, it can get clogged. I keep a little pin nearby in case I need to unclog it.

Additionally, with all the banging and emptying out of coffee grounds, the process can get a bit messy, but I think that’s relatively standard when using an espresso machine.

Who should consider buying this product?

This machine is for people who like the process of making a coffee (vs. the automatic nature of a standard drip coffee maker or a Nespresso-type machine) and who don’t mind a small amount of regular upkeep. It’s also for folks who want the option of making a variety of coffee drinks from the comfort of home.

At $850, it’s at a higher price point than some other models, so it is an investment product. However, if a high-quality espresso machine is something you’ve been seeking, the De’Longhi La Specialista is well worth considering.

Shop the Post

Should you be interested in making a purchase now or in the future, I’ve included links below from a handful of different sources, depending on where you prefer to shop. Thank you for supporting our business by shopping through our affiliate links. It’s so appreciated!

De’Longhi La Specialista Espresso Machine via Amazon – This is the model I own.
De’Longhi La Specialista Prestigio Espresso Machine via Williams Sonoma – This (and the link below) is the Prestigio model, an updated take on La Specialista.
De’Longhi La Specialista Prestigio Espresso Machine via Best Buy

Editor’s Note: This article contains affiliate links. Wit & Delight uses affiliate links as a source of revenue to fund the operations of the business and to be less dependent on branded content. Still have questions about these links or our process? Feel free to email us.

Kate Arends

Kate is the founder of Wit & Delight. She is currently learning how to play tennis and is forever testing the boundaries of her creative muscle. Follow her on Instagram at @witanddelight_.