Equip Your Kitchen to Make Premium Coffee

If your budget is tight, consider a steam-powered espresso machine, many of which sell for less than $100. These machines won't make exceptional espresso, but they usually steam milk well and offer a good starting point for an amateur barista.

Or buy a stovetop espresso maker, such as the Bialetti 4-Cup Brikka Coffeemaker ($59). With a milk frother from Bodum or Aerolatte ($12-$30) you can froth up a glass of warm milk for lattes or cappuccinos.

No matter how good your grinder and brewing device are, you can't make superb coffee without quality coffee beans and pure water. Buy coffee beans that are freshly roasted and store them in an airtight container. And always brew with pure-tasting cold water.