The Breville Bambino Plus BES550 is a compact yet powerful semi-automatic espresso machine ("Bambino" means "child" in Italian) from an industry-leading in kitchen appliances. This model is an entry-level, semi-automatic espresso machine that takes all of the guesswork out of pro-quality espresso-based beverages
Breville's proprietary ThermoJet heating system goes from cold start to extraction temperature in just 3 seconds (a serious wow-factor) thanks to the Thermocoil heating element, and PID temperature control maintains the optimal 200°F temperature throughout the brew process. Automatic pre-infusion ensures complete extraction for a rich, aromatic shot.
The Bambino Plus comes with 2 commercial-style, 54mm double-walled, pressurized portafilters (1-cup and 2-cup portions), which are great for beginner home baristas but limit how great your espresso can be compared to non-pressurized portafilter baskets. You can purchase compatible 54mm non-pressurized portafilter baskets, but the lack of a pressure gauge or and inability to change extraction temps make the Bambino Plus less than ideal for this type of use.
For milk-based beverages, the Bambino Plus also has an integrated frothing wand with both automatic and manual frothing modes, and you can choose one of 3 frothing temperatures and 3 texture settings to dial in milk foam to your liking.
Other accessories included with the Breville Bambino Plus are as follows: 54mm stainless steel tamper, The Razor (a precision portafilter trimming tool), a cleaning disc, a steam wand cleaning tool, espresso cleaning tablets, and descaling powder.
