This Manual Espresso Maker Has Amazing Reviews and Looks So Sleek, but Can It Make a Good Espresso Shot? Here's My Opinion, as an Ex-Barista

There's something so charming about a manual espresso maker. First of all, the designs are usually very reminiscent of 1950s tech and a bit of nostalgic, mid-century style. The interesting form will certainly pique curiosity and add a bit of interest to your coffee-making station. That, and they are satisfyingly analog. If you really love the hands-on element of brewing espresso, these machines amplify that gratification — you truly become part of the process in a way many top espresso machines simply can't offer.

I've tested a few manual espresso machines in the last few years, but I've long looked forward to ticking Flair's designs off my list. The Flair 58 Plus 2 has been available for a few years, but it is one of the brand's most stylish offerings. And if you know anything about how we test coffee machines here at Livingetc, aesthetics and tech are both top priorities. Simply put, the Flair 58 Plus 2 is a premium manual espresso machine with a lever system and built-in preheating component, designed for espresso lovers who seek quality coffee and a more nuanced routine.

Safe to say, I went into this curious and excited to try my hand at another manual coffee maker. However, there were a lot of surprises and things to learn about this device along the way — that said, it produced a delicious cup of coffee and taught me some new things about coffee-making. Below is my full review, all my thoughts and feelings while testing, plus more information to help you decide whether this is the right coffee machine for you.

Olivia Wolfe

Olivia Wolfe has been a design writer for Livingetc since 2024, and has a master's degree in arts and lifestyle journalism from the University of the Arts London, London College of Communication. Previously, Olivia worked in the coffee industry at multiple cafes, both in London and the United States. During this time, she took training-intensive courses at coffee roasteries where coffee beans are roasted, packed, and shipped. During these trainings, Olivia learned about different types of coffee beans, how region affects flavor, roasting methods, grinding methods for different brews, and the flavor profiles of coffee. Since being at Livingetc, Olivia has tested multiple coffee machines (and currently has four on her kitchen counter).

First Impressions

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Once again, I chose this specific machine out of Flair's three other options because it has the sleekest design. The dark wood handles paired with the matte black body just look so elevated. After unboxing, the Flair 58 Plus 2 definitely lived up to the design-forward aesthetics I was hoping for. It even came so beautifully organized in the box that I almost didn't want to get it out and use it.

The most 'confusing' part is that the machine faces forward on the countertop. I describe this as confusing because I think the instinct is to place it sideways so you can see the full design of the machine. However, to use it most efficiently, it needs to be front-facing. (See the picture above for reference.)

As for the setup, the Flair 58 Plus 2 does require a bit of 'building', unlike other manual machines I've tested, like the ROK Presso Smartshot. It's not hard, and the instruction manual is very clear, with imagery to support the step-by-step process. Plus, I found that putting the machine together helped me better understand the machine's parts and how manual coffee makers actually work.

Testing the Machine

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Testing this machine started strong, got a little confusing in the middle, and then ended fabulously (and with a delicious shot of espresso).

As mentioned, there is a bit of assembly required with this machine. It's basically just attaching the lever to the base and then plugging in the electronic parts. That's right, while this machine is a manual espresso maker, it's not fully electronic-free manual like Flair's 58x Machine or, again, the ROK Presso Smartshot. Instead, the Flair 58 Plus 2 has an integrated preheat controller system in the base of the machine, you can set the brew head to one of three temperatures, which controls whether you get a light, medium, or dark roast. It's the kind of electric technology that streamlines the process, rather than taking you out of it completely.

Once I had it all set up, I was ready to make my first espresso shot. Full disclosure, I have tested a lot of coffee machines and products, so I have a lot of the things you need in a coffee nook on hand. The Flair 58 Plus 2 doesn't come with a coffee grinder, a coffee scale, or a milk steamer; the first two are essential to the process. For instance, weighing the grounds for a specific shot type helps produce a more precise extraction rate and therefore, better coffee.

Flair has some decent options (the Flair Wizard Stovetop Steamer and the Flair Grinder have excellent reviews, too), but you want to make sure you're stocked and ready before you begin. It sounds like a lot, but investing in these coffee machine accessories will ultimately lead to a higher quality experience.

Once it was finally time to brew my first shot, the process was quite simple. I ran into a little trouble fitting the portafilter into the brew head — the instructions say to have the handle down, but I found that raising it slightly helps it lock into place more easily. After that, all you do is pour boiling water into the top, slowly pull the lever up, let some steam accumulate, then push the lever down to brew. It really is quite a satisfying process, and getting a perfect shot is easy.

Quality of Coffee

So, after putting in all of this effort, what does the actual coffee taste like? Well, the Flair 58 Plus 2 further proves my theory that manual espresso makers are the easiest way to ensure a delicious and quality brew every single time.

I got an espresso shot with a thick crema layer on my first go, and it only got easier from there. It's an eye-opening process because instead of pushing a button and having the brewing happen inside the machine, the Flair model lets you be a part of the process. As you pour in the boiling water, you can see it steep into the grounds and watch the pressure rise as you press down the lever. It's so simple that it's hard to mess up — meaning it's a very reliable way to make a good shot of espresso.

So, yes, this machine makes top-of-the-line coffee. And on top of that, investing in quality coffee beans and the right accessories will make your coffee machine work better and your coffee taste even more delicious.

Should You Buy the Flair 58 Plus 2 Manual Espresso Maker?

Short answer: yes, this machine is worth investing in if you are a coffee enthusiast. However, I'd say this is specifically for someone who wants to dive deeper into the art of coffee-making. On top of the fairly high price tag, you'll need to invest in a burr grinder, a scale, and a milk steamer if you want milk-based drinks. Plus, other things like a scoop and a tamping mat would streamline the process. It's a beautiful, analog coffee-making process that makes for a satisfying start to the day, but it's not for everyone.

If you live a more 'on-the-go' lifestyle or want a quality espresso with less effort, then a traditional semi-automatic or automatic coffee machine like Breville's Barista Sense or the Sage Bambino Plus is probably the better way to go.

That said, the Flair 58 Plus 2 is truly a top-of-the-line manual espresso maker. It looks chic on the counter and adds a moment of slowness to your morning routine. Plus, it is also great for small spaces!

Other Flair Coffee Accessories and Machines

I love the hands-on element of a manual espresso machine, and the Flair 58 Plus 2 is an excellent choice for quality and good design.

However, if you like black coffee and a more analog process but don't really feel the need to invest in such a hands-on process, perhaps a drip coffee maker is right for you. Or even a French press! There are so many options to choose from.

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