Hi, I have been making french press coffee for the last 2 years. Recently got my hands on Aero press. Now planning to get Gaggia Classic Pro Evo (metal series).
As of now I have a hand grinder (burr) and have option to procure pre grounded coffee from local roaster.
Just wanted to know your thoughts. Which was your first espresso machine? How was your experience? What’s few things I should look out for as a beginner? What’s your favourite recipe?
The thing holding you back, outside of learning and practice, is your grinder. It won’t work for espresso, as there isn’t enough granularity in the settings.
You mentioned pre-ground coffee from a local roaster, but that also won’t really work unless you’re using pressurised baskets.
I would get a new grinder. If you can’t afford something too expensive and want to stick to hand grinding at the moment, have a look at something like the Kingrinder K4 or K6.
Here’s a good guide to get you started: https://espressoaf.com/guides/beginner
As others have said, there’ll be a learning curve and it may take a while until you’re happy with the results. But you’ve picked a great machine to start. Unfortunately it’s only one part of the whole thing haha.