An Old Favourite Makes Its Way to Dubai
At the close of May, I had the pleasure of touring the newly inaugurated La Marzocco showroom in Dubai. Those who have been following my blog for some time will recognize that La Marzocco is likely my favorite brand for Italian espresso machines. Indeed, when I relocated to Cape Town in 2010 to establish my first coffee shop, Escape Caffe, one of my essential requirements was to have a three-group La Marzocco Linea espresso machine. Therefore, yes, La Marzocco has consistently held a special place in my heart. Geek alert.
Thus, when I discovered that they were organizing an event at their Dubai showroom on Saturday, 23 May 2026, in collaboration with RAW Coffee Company, one of Dubai’s pioneering specialty coffee roasters, I was naturally thrilled to attend.
Initial Impressions
As soon as you step inside, you are welcomed by an impressive assortment of espresso machines; after all, it was a showroom accentuating all their models like GB5, Strada, etc. Briefly put, La Marzocco was established in Florence in 1927 and has been crafting handmade espresso machines for nearly a century. Each machine still features the Florentine lion on its emblem.
For this particular event, they collaborated with RAW Coffee Company, so all the coffees served that day were roasted by them. Perhaps intrigued by my passionate coffee demeanor, I encountered Eric, a former Venezuelan barista champion, who graciously guided me through the showroom.
The Modbar and Swan Grinder
We ventured upstairs to observe the Modbar, which now includes an attached filter unit. This allows for a sleek, minimalist counter setup with integrated espresso and filter brewing. Exciting!
I distinctly recall the first time I encountered a Modbar at Colonna & Smalls in Bath back in 2017; it struck me as one of the most aesthetically pleasing coffee shop setups I had ever witnessed.
Subsequently, I moved downstairs and conversed with Filippo, an engineer who has been assigned to Dubai for a couple of years. He introduced me to the remarkable Swan grinder, equipped with 83mm conical burrs, stepless grind adjustment, and three speed settings. The demonstration illustrated precisely why the right grinder is as crucial as the espresso machine itself.
Always remember that the machine plays a vital role in espresso preparation.
We pulled two different espressos, and I could distinctly perceive the variations solely based on the grinder settings.
Machines, Collaborations, and Coffee Enthusiasm
As I wandered around the showroom following my geek moment, I examined some of their other machines. A standout was the La Marzocco collaboration with Porsche: a limited edition Linea Micra. Only 911 units were produced.
Porsche 911, catch the reference? Clearly intentional.
I also dedicated some time to the Linea Mini and the Linea Micra, which Eric had previously shown me. We experimented with the Acaia scales and explored how various configurations can manipulate the flavor profiles of espresso coffee. The Linea Micra is La Marzocco’s most compact machine, yet don’t let its size mislead you. It still boasts dual boilers, commercial-grade temperature stability, and a PID controller.
This machine remains on my wishlist, so if anyone reading this feels inspired to gift me one, feel free to DM me, and I will gladly share my Dubai address.
Coffee, Conversations, and Closing Thoughts
Following that, I engaged in conversations with the RAW Coffee baristas about the various coffees being served and had a few pictures taken (see top pic).
In total, I enjoyed a couple of milk-based coffees, several espressos (one blended with a touch of robusta for an authentic Italian espresso experience) and relished the entire geeky journey.
I must admit I anticipated a larger crowd at the event, but it worked out well for me, as I got to spend ample time with the team and learn more about the machines.
Situated just off Sheikh Zayed Road, the La Marzocco showroom in Dubai is open for walk-in visits throughout the week, from Monday to Friday. They frequently host collaborations with Dubai-based roasters on Saturdays, so be sure to check their website for updates. Whether you wish to purchase a high-end professional home espresso machine, set up a café, consult with experts, or simply experiment with stunning espresso equipment, it’s certainly worth a visit.
If you’re seeking something unique to do on a Saturday and fancy a genuine coffee geek moment, I wholeheartedly recommend visiting La Marzocco Middle East located at Shop 4, 80 Sheikh Zayed Road.
Ciao!
Title: A Coffee Enthusiast’s Experience at La Marzocco in Dubai
Situated in the lively landscape of Dubai, La Marzocco serves as a haven for coffee lovers in search of an extraordinary brew. Renowned worldwide for its superior espresso machines, La Marzocco has crafted a distinct café experience in Dubai that fuses tradition with innovation, making it a must-visit destination for any coffee lover.
Upon entering the café, patrons are welcomed by the sleek, contemporary design that embodies the brand’s Italian legacy and dedication to artistry. The ambiance is warm and inviting, infused with the rich scent of freshly ground coffee beans filling the air. The café’s design promotes engagement, with an open barista area allowing guests to observe the artistry of coffee-making up close.
The menu at La Marzocco Dubai is a reflection of their commitment to quality and diversity. It features an assortment of espresso-based beverages, each meticulously crafted using their advanced machines. For those wishing to venture beyond the conventional espresso, the café presents a selection of single-origin coffee varieties, each with unique flavor insights that reflect their distinct backgrounds.
A standout aspect of the La Marzocco experience is the chance to interact with knowledgeable baristas who are passionate about their craft. They are enthusiastic about sharing insights into the coffee creation process, from bean selection to brewing methods. This interaction not only enhances the tasting experience but also educates visitors on the subtleties of coffee appreciation.
For individuals eager to deepen their understanding, La Marzocco Dubai frequently organizes workshops and events. These sessions explore various topics, from latte art to espresso extraction science, offering enthusiasts hands-on experience and greater insight into the complexities of coffee.
The café also acts as a hub for the local coffee community, regularly hosting events that unite coffee enthusiasts and professionals. These gatherings cultivate a sense of community and provide a platform for exchanging ideas and innovations in the industry.
In addition to its exceptional coffee selections, La Marzocco Dubai prioritizes sustainability. The café sources its beans from ethical and environmentally responsible producers, ensuring that each cup of coffee delights the palate while supporting sustainable practices.
In summary, a visit to La Marzocco in Dubai transcends being merely a coffee break; it’s an immersive experience that celebrates the art and science of coffee. For aficionados, it provides an opportunity to deepen their understanding and appreciation of coffee, while newcomers will find themselves captivated by the rich tapestry of flavors and aromas. No matter if you’re a seasoned expert or a curious newcomer, La Marzocco Dubai guarantees an unforgettable exploration into the essence of coffee culture.
