DeLonghi La Specialista Opera Review: Yet Another Winner!

If you’re itching for a satisfying but easy brew, oh boy, have I got a treat for you! All packaged up in this DeLonghi La Specialista Opera review. 

DeLonghi’s La Specialista Opera espresso machine claims to be the Rolls-Royce of its category. And, you know what, with all its bells and whistles, it just might be!

Now, I know what you’re thinking: “Isn’t this just another overpriced gadget that’ll collect dust on my countertop?” I think not. Its features and functions have me intrigued enough to take a first look. 

I’ve ordered the La Specialista Opera to test out, but while I’m waiting for it to arrive let’s find out if this beauty is worth your consideration. 

Overview: DeLonghi La Specialista Opera Review

What makes the DeLonghi La Specialista Opera stand out from similar machines in the series, such as the La Specialista Prestigio and La Specialista Arte? 

First, this machine has a sleek stainless steel body. But it’s not just a pretty face – this espresso machine means business. 

On the left, you’ve got a convenient tamping lever, no arm workout needed. Then, there’s the intuitive front-facing display where all the magic happens. This section has several smart functions and a conical burr grinder with 15 adjustment settings. 

For you espresso nerds, there’s also a pressure gauge to keep you in the sweet spot. In addition, there are three temperature controls with a hot and cold illuminated dial. Conveniently, the La Specialista Opera also has operational indicator lights. These come in handy for water refills, cleaning and bean refills. And with the 7-ounce (200-gram) bean hopper, and 2-liter (67-ounce) water tank, you won’t be refilling every two minutes.

And get this – you’ve got five pre-programmed settings: Espresso, Americano, Hot Water, Espresso Cool and Cold Brew.

Next, accessories. Although the 51mm portafilter is smaller, it has dual spouts for brewing both single and double shots. The insulated steam wand’s no slouch, either. It’s conveniently located making it easy to steam milk perfectly. 

Now, I know what you’re thinking: how much will this cost me? This feature-rich espresso machine comes in at a hefty $899.95. Still, I think it’s a worthy investment seeing as it comes with a solid warranty. Straddling that fine line between a fully automatic and manual espresso maker, this machine delivers convenience and creativity.

DeLonghi La Specialista Opera Features

Moving on, let’s take a closer look at the specialist features of this formidable semi-automatic. I’ve taken special care to expound on these features in this DeLonghi La Specialista Opera review to ensure you get the full gist of what this espresso machine can do:

Size and Design

The La Specialista Opera, like others in the series, is a solid piece of machinery. Its size and design reflect its robust capabilities, and the stainless steel body exudes a premium feel. 

Standing at 17.5 inches (44.45 centimeters), it may not fit under all kitchen cabinets, but is compact enough to fit on most countertops. What’s more, at 28 pounds (12.7 kilograms), it has a reassuring heft to maintain stability during operation. 

The thoughtful design also includes a maximum cup height of 4.2 inches (10.5 centimeters). This accommodates most standard-sized coffee mugs but not many travel mugs. In addition, the removable water tank is generous, allowing multiple brews without refills. This doesn’t mean that you should fill the tank and forget it! But rather refill the tank with fresh water for every brew session. 

For a semi-automatic, the layout is super intuitive. You have a dual-spout portafilter with a removable drip tray at the center. To the left, sits an integrated tamping station and tamping lever. Above, a pressure gauge. To the right, the steam wand and control dial offer effortless access. 

Then there’s the espresso grinder, which adds to the machine’s height. So, please remember to measure your under-cabinet space before purchasing.

User Interface

One of the most crucial features to discuss in this DeLonghi La Specialista Opera review is the user interface. Its design caters to a wide range of users, from beginners to experienced home baristas. How does it do this? By offering the convenience of automation and hands-on components. 

The front-facing layout is simple but genius. It allows you to see all controls at a glance, without having to reach around the machine. In addition, physical buttons highlight the traditional espresso machine experience. Atop the display is a pressure gauge that tracks extraction pressure. 

Still, preset beverage selections, such as Cold Brew and Espresso Cool offer greater versatility and convenience. These are particularly intriguing, as they aren’t typical on espresso machines. 

Furthermore, three active temperature controls cater to more advanced brewers. These take into account different espresso beans, bean density and roast levels to fine-tune extraction. 

Lastly, there are indicator lights for everything from water levels to bean refills. These help users maintain the machine at optimal performance.

Conical Burr Grinder

Another stand-out feature is the built-in conical burr grinder. With 15 grind settings, it gives you a fairly decent spectrum of options.

But let’s talk about the real magic: this machine’s sensor grinding technology. This is where the grinder sets itself apart from the competition. The sensors pick up grind settings perfectly, automatically adjusting times and volumes. 

This ensures precise dosing every time by considering factors like espresso bean origin and density. In addition, whether you use just roasted or slightly older beans, the sensor compensates for this variance. This precision guarantees espresso that’s not just good but consistently excellent.

Dosing

This machine’s smart dosing feature addresses two critical aspects of espresso preparation: precision and consistency. It does so by automating ground coffee measurements. Thus, it prevents two major pitfalls: under-extracted, dull-tasting espresso and over-extracted, bitter espresso. 

As it’s integrated, this grinder allows for real-time adjustments for grind settings and dose size. Crucially, this feature doesn’t rely on time-based dosing. As such, it eliminates inconsistency due to bean density and grind size variations. 

Once the machine achieves the target weight and grind size, the grinder stops. This allows even novice users to achieve consistent, world-class coffee. 

Smart Tamping System

Like with the La Specialista Maestro and Breville Touch Impress, the Opera’s smart tamping station automates the tamping process. 

Still, this machine includes a coffee tamper should you prefer tamping your coffee manually. However, I’d suggest getting a weighted tamper for best results. 

Pulling the lever applies a precise 44 pounds (20 kilograms) of pressure evenly across the coffee grounds. 

Why is this important, you may ask? Well, anyone well-versed in brewing espresso knows that it ensures consistency with every shot. Assisted tamping also eliminates the need for manual adjustments and reduces mess from errant grounds. Perfect espresso every time? Now that’s amore!

Portafilter

Another must-mention for this DeLonghi La Specialista Opera review is the 51-millimeter portafilter. This component provides an excellent balance between coffee quality and ease of use. 

Although smaller, it still allows for proper coffee grounds distribution and even water pressure. What’s more, the stainless steel construction makes it durable, corrosion-resistant and temperature-stable. Finally, the dual-spout design allows you to divide any brewed espresso into two separate streams. Perfect for brewing two shots on the go!

I especially love the single and double-shot filter baskets that allow users to switch between single and double shots seamlessly. And as these baskets are single-walled and non-pressurized, they offer you greater control over extraction. This guarantees you espresso coffee with a fuller body and more complex flavor.

Steam Wand

Now, if you fancy exploring espresso’s milky way, you’d do well to use this machine’s steam wand. It heats rapidly and generates the ideal steam pressure. This ensures silky micro-foam, essential for flawless lattes and cappuccinos. 

Although it’s not fully articulated, its advanced insulation ensures temperature stability. As such, you can froth both dairy and non-dairy milks with precision. Furthermore, the insulation ensures zero risk of sustaining burns, especially when wiping it down. There’s no risk of achieving anything other than café-quality milk froth with this beauty! 

You should note that DeLonghi has included a stainless steel milk jug should you not have one on hand. 

Thermoblock Heating

As with many modern espresso machines, the DeLonghi La Specialista Opera uses thermoblock heating. 

This heating system maintains optimal brewing temperatures throughout extraction. How? By rapidly heating water as it flows through.The end result is precise temperature control as you brew. 

The system also allows for quick heat-up times, crucial for perfect espresso. Furthermore, it can switch between brewing and steaming temperatures quickly and seamlessly, enhancing efficiency. 

As it happens, the thermoblock design also minimizes heat loss and energy consumption compared to more traditional boiler systems. 

19 Bar Italian Pump

A key feature of this DeLonghi La Specialista Opera review is the 19-bar Italian pump. It isn’t just a fancy feature but the heart and soul of your espresso machine. 

This powerhouse mimics the delicate pressure dance of a pro barista’s hands. As such, it guarantees coffee nirvana with every shot. 

To start, it kicks off with a gentle pre-infusion, using low pressure to coax those grounds into a perfect bloom. Then, it ramps up to the golden 9 bars of pressure. Ultimately, this pressure pirouette ensures your coffee comes out balanced, rich and crowned with that coveted crema.

Active Temperature Control

The DeLonghi La Specialista Opera’s active temperature controls provide three adjustable temperature settings. These allow you to match the water temperature precisely to your coffee drink type. As a result, you guarantee optimal extraction by tailoring the brew temperature of various coffees. 

Want to enjoy normale for your doppios, americanos and more? Brew using the normal “Espresso” function. Need a less bitter espresso that brings out the unique flavors and aromas of single-origin espresso blends for espresso tonics and other iced coffee drinks? Simply select the “Espresso Cool” function. 

The machine brews at the correct pressure and temperature for each selection to bring out those nuanced flavors in your beans. A stand-out feature!

Cold Extraction Technology

Cold extraction? Aren’t we talking about an espresso machine here? We are, but get this: the machine has the ability to brew at lower temperatures making it perfect for iced coffees and, wait for it, cold brew! But, wait a minute, is this real cold brew? Hear me out. 

Well, there are espresso machines like the Jura Z10 and coffee makers like the Spinn Coffee Maker, that deliver decent approximations of cold brew. And from my previous experience testing these two machines, these mock cold brews were drinkable. 

How can an espresso machine do this? Unlike with hot espresso, the cold extraction combines a higher calibrated pressure, slower water flow and lower extraction temperature. The result is quite a good approximation of cold brew. 

I still insist that true cold brew extraction takes 18-24 hours. The DeLonghi La Specialista Arte Evo also has a cold extraction function. And in my past tests, I must say I was underwhelmed with the results. 

So, even though this advanced tech ensures optimal cold extraction in under five minutes, I reserve my taste test judgment for when I ultimately put the machine through its paces.

How to Use the DeLonghi La Specialista Opera 

So, how do you use this stainless steel beauty? Well, I can’t very well write this DeLonghi La Specialista Opera review without telling you how, can I? Surprisingly, this multi-function machine is pretty simple to master. 

Espresso Function

To begin, take your portafilter (with single or double-shot basket), and insert it into the smart tamping station. Wait for the single and double shot indicator lights to illuminate before selecting for your choice. The machine will grind into the portafilter per your selection. 

Now, pull the tamping handle down and then push it back up to begin tamping your grounds. Twist out the portafilter and insert it into the group head, twisting as far right as you can. Place an espresso, latte or cappuccino cup under the spouts. 

Ensure the furthest left dial is on “Espresso” and press the OK button (which should light up red). The machine will brew while controlling all variables, including pre-infusion and extraction pressure. 

Steaming Milk

To steam milk for drinks like latte macchiatos or cappuccinos, activate the steam wand using the side dial to the right, then purge with hot steam. Next, place the wand into your milk jug, turn the steam dial forward and froth your milk before wiping it down. 

Espresso Cool Function

You may also use the “Espresso Cool” to brew espresso at a lower temperature. This feature is perfect for cold beverages like iced americanos, freddo espresso and more. 

To begin, place ice into your coffee cup and set it under the portafilter spouts. Then, using a clean portafilter, lock into the smart tamping station. 

Follow the same procedure for brewing hot espresso, but with the beverage selector on the “Espresso Cool” function. The OK button should light up blue. The machine will then brew espresso but at a lower temperature. 

Cold Brew Function

Uniquely for an espresso machine, there is also an option to make “cold brew.” Load up a slightly larger coffee cup (like a glass coffee mug) with ice and place it under the portafilter spouts. Then, select the “Cold Brew” setting. Click the OK button to begin the cold extraction process. 

The machine will brew slower, taking up to five minutes to ensure a full extraction. You should get a milder coffee akin to sweet Georgia iced tea. 

Remember, this semi-automatic espresso machine largely has your back with its smart tech. But that shouldn’t stop you from experimenting. Don’t be afraid to play around with grind settings, temperature controls and different milk textures. 

Indeed, this is where semi-automatics trump super-automatics – they give you room to experiment and dial in on your perfect brew. And therein lies the joy of using them!

DeLonghi La Specialista Opera Cleaning

Let’s now break down how to keep this semi-automatic espresso machine in tip-top shape. To begin, wipe down the steam wand with a damp cloth after every steaming session to avoid a milk crust forming. Then, run a quick purge cycle before emptying, washing and rinsing the portafilter and drip tray after making espresso. 

Don’t forget to wipe the stainless steel exterior with a clean, damp cloth. Occasionally, you may also use a good stainless steel polish (available on Amazon) to maintain the shine. These quick steps will keep this espresso machine running smoothly on the daily. Not to mention saving you loads in repair and maintenance costs. 

For deeper cleaning, always consult the user manual. Descale regularly to prevent mineral build-up. You’ll also need to deep-clean the group head, bean hopper, water tank and grinder. 

Many components are dishwasher-safe, so feel free to put them in the top rack of your dishwasher. If hand-washing, rinse thoroughly and air-dry all components before reinserting them into the machine. 

DeLonghi La Specialista Opera Specifications

DeLonghi La Specialista Opera vs Breville Barista Express

How does the DeLonghi La Specialista Opera compare to the Breville Barista Express? 

Firstly, the Opera is the perfect embodiment of an Italian espresso machine. It’s sleek, shiny and screams, “Look at me!” Conversely, the Australian Breville Barista Express is more like a reliable luxury sedan. It also has color options, including Black Sesame and Cranberry Red.

Price wise, the Opera might have you gasping slightly. It’s definitely playing in the big leagues. In contrast, the Barista Express is easier on the wallet, sitting comfortably at $549.95. 

What about features? The Barista Express, despite being more affordable, goes toe to toe with and ()dare I say) in some cases trumps the Opera.

However, the Barista Express differs slightly by its use of thermocoil heating, PID controller inclusion and smaller 15-bar pump. But it does boast a larger 54-millimeter portafilter, magnetic tamper and fully-articulated steam wand.

Another thing I hold my hat off to Breville for is the sheer amount of espresso accessories these guys give you! For a mid-range machine, you get a dosing funnel, coffee scoop, tamper, water filter, stainless steel milk pitcher, cleaning supplies; the list goes on. Unlike the Opera, however, the Barista Express comes with a one-year limited warranty. 

So, DeLonghi or Breville? If you’re all about that top-of-the-line life and have the budget to match, the DeLonghi La Specialista Opera might be the choice for you. But if you’re on a budget and want a solid semi-automatic, go with the Breville Barista Express.

See Also: Breville Barista Express Review

DeLonghi La Specialista Opera vs Breville Barista Express Comparison Chart

Verdict: DeLonghi La Specialista Opera Review

Wrapping up, is the DeLonghi La Specialista Opera worth your time (and money)? Yes, if you’re in the market for a decent semi-automatic I would say it is. Was it worth writing this initial DeLonghi La Specialista Opera review? Heck, yes! 

This isn’t a run-of-the-mill espresso machine. It’s feature-rich, sturdy, comes with a solid warranty and will likely give good service. Sure, it might cost you a pretty penny. But can you really put a price on starting your day like a boss? 

For budding espresso heads, who are just dipping their toes into the world of coffee geekdom, this machine seems a solid choice. I haven’t tested it yet, but I intend to do so soon. And let’s be real, with this beaut on your kitchen counter, who wouldn’t rate your caffeine chops?