A Beloved Classic Lands in Dubai
In late May, I had the chance to check out the freshly inaugurated La Marzocco showroom in Dubai. If you’ve been keeping up with my blog for some time, you might be aware that La Marzocco is likely my top choice when it comes to Italian espresso machines. Indeed, when I relocated to Cape Town in 2010 to launch my first coffee shop, Escape Caffe, one of my absolute must-haves was a three-group La Marzocco Linea espresso machine. So yes, La Marzocco has always held a special place in my heart. Total geek moment.
Therefore, I was thrilled to learn that they were hosting an event at their Dubai showroom on Saturday, 23 May 2026, in partnership with RAW Coffee Company, one of Dubai’s pioneering specialty coffee roasters, and I was eager to attend.
Initial Impressions
As soon as you walk in, you are greeted by an extraordinary selection of espresso machines; after all, it was a showroom showcasing all their models, including GB5, Strada, and more. Quick history: La Marzocco originated in Florence in 1927 and has been crafting handmade espresso machines for almost a century now. Every machine still showcases the Florentine lion on its badge.
For this particular event, they collaborated with RAW Coffee Company, so all the coffees served that day were sourced from RAW. Captivated by my coffee enthusiast vibe, I met Eric, a previous barista champion from Venezuela, who graciously guided me through the showroom.
The Modbar and the Swan Grinder
We ascended to check out the Modbar, which now includes a filter unit. This means you can enjoy a sleek, minimalist counter setup with both espresso and filter brewing capabilities integrated. Awesome!
I vividly recall the first time I encountered a Modbar at Colonna & Smalls in Bath in 2017; I thought it was one of the most aesthetically pleasing coffee shop setups I had ever seen.
Afterward, I returned downstairs for a discussion with Filippo, an engineer who has been assigned to Dubai for a couple of years. He introduced me to the remarkable Swan grinder, featuring 83mm conical burrs, stepless grind adjustment, and three speed settings. The demonstration clearly illustrated why the right grinder is just as crucial as the espresso machine itself.
Always keep in mind that the machine plays a significant role in the espresso-making process.
We pulled two distinct espressos, and I could distinctly differentiate the flavors based solely on the grinder settings.
Machines, Partnerships, and Coffee Enthusiasm
After my geek-out session, I wandered around the showroom and checked out some of their other machines. One that particularly caught my eye was the La Marzocco collaboration with Porsche: a limited-edition Linea Micra. Only 911 units were produced.
Porsche 911, are you with me? Clearly deliberate.
I also took some time to explore the Linea Mini and the Linea Micra, which Eric had previously shown me. We experimented with the Acaia scales and looked at how various settings can influence the flavor profiles of espresso. The Linea Micra is La Marzocco’s most compact machine, but don’t let its size mislead you. It retains dual boilers, commercial-level temperature stability, and a PID controller.
This machine is still on my wish list, so if anyone reading this wants to bless me with one, send me a DM and I will gladly share my Dubai address.
Coffee, Conversations, and Final Reflections
After that, I had a discussion with the baristas from RAW Coffee about the different coffees available, and I even got a few photos taken (check the top pic).
Overall, I enjoyed a couple of milk-based coffees, several espressos (including one with a hint of robusta blended in for that authentic Italian espresso experience), and thoroughly relished the entire geeky affair.
I must admit that I expected a larger crowd at the event, but that worked out well for me as I was able to spend ample time with the team and gain deeper insights into the machines.
Situated just off Sheikh Zayed Road, the La Marzocco showroom in Dubai is open for walk-in visits during the week, Monday to Friday. On Saturdays, they frequently host collaborations with local roasters every two weeks, so be sure to check their website for more information. Whether you’re in the market for a high-quality professional home espresso machine, setting up a café, consulting with experts, or simply getting hands-on with stunning espresso equipment, it’s a visit worth making.
If you’re looking for a different Saturday activity and want a genuine coffee enthusiast experience, I wholeheartedly recommend visiting La Marzocco Middle East, situated at Shop 4, 80 Sheikh Zayed Road.
Ciao!
**An Enthusiast’s Journey at La Marzocco in Dubai**
Positioned in the center of Dubai, La Marzocco serves as a hub for coffee lovers seeking an unrivaled journey in the realm of specialty coffee. Renowned worldwide for its premium espresso machines, the Dubai location provides not just a peek into the craftsmanship of coffee making but a complete sensory experience that enchants both beginners and experienced coffee enthusiasts alike.
Upon stepping into the La Marzocco showroom, guests are instantly surrounded by the rich fragrance of freshly ground coffee, creating an ambiance for what is expected to be an exceptional visit. The area is carefully crafted, harmonizing modern design with a cozy, welcoming feel. The sleek silhouettes of the espresso machines on view are accentuated by rustic wooden features, achieving a delightful balance of tradition and innovation.
The adventure kicks off with a guided tour of the showroom, where informed staff members highlight the legacy of La Marzocco, a name that has represented excellence since it began in Florence, Italy, in 1927. Guests discover the artistry and precision that accompanies each machine, gaining understanding of why La Marzocco is the preferred choice of top baristas globally.
One notable highlight of the visit is the chance to engage in a hands-on coffee brewing workshop. Under the direction of expert baristas, attendees explore the intricacies of espresso preparation, from grinding the coffee beans to achieving the perfect shot. The workshop addresses diverse brewing methods, permitting aficionados to experiment with various techniques and uncover their individual tastes.
For those curious about the details behind the perfect cup, La Marzocco presents an expansive view of the technology that drives their machines. Interactive installations and demonstrations display the innovative attributes that distinguish La Marzocco, including dual boilers and saturated group heads, all of which ensure temperature consistency and optimal extraction.
The experience is deepened by a tasting segment, allowing visitors to sample a range of single-origin coffees and blends. Each cup unveils its own story, with flavors and aromas that embody the distinctive traits of the coffee’s origin. The tasting segment is an opportunity to voyage through the diverse coffee landscape, led by specialists who assist in identifying various flavor elements and profiles.
La Marzocco in Dubai also acts as a community hub for coffee enthusiasts. Regular events like latte art competitions and coffee cupping sessions cultivate a sense of community among fans and provide a venue for education and sharing. The showroom often welcomes guest baristas and industry experts, presenting workshops and discussions that explore a variety of coffee culture aspects.
For coffee lovers, a trip to La Marzocco in Dubai transcends a mere look at upscale espresso machines; it’s an all-encompassing experience that enriches one’s respect for the craft and science of coffee. Whether you’re an aspiring barista or an experienced connoisseur, La Marzocco offers a distinctive chance to engage with the international coffee community and indulge in a love for the perfect brew.
