Most of the time, if you hit them in the morning, the cashier would just punch the whole card when you bought one...
It's terrifying the amount of money you can save when you get in the habit of making your own coffee though. It's not quite on the level of movie popcorn, but it's up there.
- The espresso machine. The $150 one you get off Amazon just isn't the same as the La Marzocco that they use at a good coffee shop. Count on spending a minimum of $2,000 for a machine, or as much as $5-6,000 for a commercial-quality machine that will last for years of use. The quality of the grind is one of the most important aspects of good espresso, so figure another $500-1000 on a high-quality grinder, and another hundred or so for accessories and such. Yes, there are cheaper devices but there are reasons that the good stuff cost so much: high-quality all-metal construction, consistent and accurate pressure and temperature, serviceability, etc.
- Learning to be a barista. Operating and maintaining the equipment, pouring technique, knowledge of coffee beans--these are all skills that I lack. I don't know where to learn them, either. I have a busy job and I don't have time to apprentice at a coffee shop. I wish there was some kind of class that I could take over a weekend where I could learn to be as good as the guys and girls working at my local shop.
Still, even with all of the hurdles, it's worth it. I'm spending $35/week--that's almost $1,900 a year--on espresso drinks. I could pay for a nice Faema or La Marzocco in only a few years of drinking at home.
EDIT: I spoke too soon. Look at this: https://a.zozi.com/#/express/seattlebaristaacademywa/product...
I have had this setup for about 5 years now. I drink more coffee than ever, spend much less for it and it's at the point where I would much rather drink my coffee than go out to a cafe.
But yeah, I would love a La Marzocco. When and if my faithful Silvia kicks the bucket I am going to definitely head that route.
You should try it! There is something just so satisfying about making yourself an awesome cappuccino and it's great for guests.
That's why I don't particularly care for making coffee at home. I enjoy hanging out at the coffee shops for extended periods of time. I'll read, get some work done or just people watch. It's fun and my way of giving back to the shop is to buy stuff like a bagel and some coffee.
I do have a daily coffee habit, but more so as a pick me up after lunch at work. At work we have multiple ways to make (free) coffee so can't really complain there! I've been trying to drink less coffee though. I should really stop eating so many carbs during lunch. It really slogs down the rest of my day and it makes me need coffee.
The value I get from any good coffeeshop far exceed what I pay for drinks and food there.