Finding the best ground coffee for your espresso machine can elevate your daily coffee experience. Quality coffee beans make a significant difference.
In this blog post, we will explore some of the top ground coffee options for espresso machines. We will look at well-known brands like Starbucks, Illy, and Lavazza. Each brand offers unique flavors and roasts to suit different preferences. Whether you prefer a dark roast or a medium blend, there’s something for everyone.
We will cover important aspects such as flavor notes, roast levels, and packaging sizes. This guide will help you choose the perfect coffee for your espresso machine. Read on to discover the best ground coffee options available for a rich and satisfying espresso at home.
1. Starbucks Ground Coffee, Dark Roast Coffee, Espresso Roast, 100% Arabica

Starbucks Ground Coffee, Dark Roast Coffee, Espresso Roast, 100% Arabica, 1 bag (28 oz) is a premium coffee blend that promises to deliver a rich, bold flavor. This dark roast is crafted from the finest Arabica beans, ensuring a high-quality coffee experience for enthusiasts. Perfect for those who enjoy a strong, full-bodied cup of coffee, this product stands out with its distinct espresso roast profile.
Pros:
- Rich, bold flavor
- Made from 100% Arabica beans
- High-quality dark roast
- Trusted brand
Cons:
- May be too strong for some coffee drinkers
- Higher price point compared to other brands
The Starbucks Ground Coffee, Dark Roast Coffee, Espresso Roast is ideal for coffee lovers who appreciate a deep, intense flavor. The 100% Arabica beans ensure a premium taste, and the dark roast process brings out the boldness in each cup. This coffee is perfect for making espresso-based drinks or enjoying on its own for a robust start to your day.
Despite the higher price, many find the quality and flavor worth the investment. However, it might not suit those who prefer a milder coffee. Overall, the Starbucks Espresso Roast is a great option for anyone looking to indulge in a rich, dark roast coffee experience.
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2. Illy Intenso Ground Espresso Coffee

Illy Intenso Ground Espresso Coffee is a bold roast that offers an intense, robust, and full-flavored experience with notes of deep cocoa. Made from 100% Arabica coffee and containing no preservatives, this 8.8-ounce pack is perfect for those who appreciate high-quality coffee.
Pros:
- Bold roast with intense flavor
- Robust and full-flavored with notes of deep cocoa
- Made from 100% Arabica coffee
- Contains no preservatives
- Convenient 8.8-ounce pack
Cons:
- May be too intense for some coffee drinkers
- Higher price point compared to other brands
- Limited to a single pack size
The Illy Intenso Ground Espresso Coffee stands out with its bold roast and intense flavor profile. Coffee enthusiasts who enjoy a robust and full-bodied cup will appreciate the deep cocoa notes that this blend offers. The 100% Arabica coffee ensures a high-quality brew without any preservatives, making it a healthier choice for daily consumption.
One of the key features of this coffee is its convenient packaging. The 8.8-ounce pack is ideal for maintaining freshness and is easy to store. However, it’s important to note that the intensity of the flavor may not be suitable for everyone, particularly those who prefer a milder coffee. Additionally, the higher price point and limited pack size might be a consideration for some buyers. Overall, Illy Intenso Ground Espresso Coffee is a fantastic choice for those who seek a robust and full-flavored espresso experience.
To buy this product, click here.
3. Bristot Espresso Cremoso Italiano Ground Coffee

Experience the authentic taste of Italian espresso with Bristot Espresso Cremoso Italiano Ground Coffee. This medium roast coffee is specially crafted for home espresso machines, providing a rich and creamy cup of espresso every time. Packaged in an 8.8oz/250g bag, it’s perfect for coffee lovers who appreciate quality and flavor.
Pros:
- Rich and creamy flavor
- Authentic Italian espresso experience
- Perfect for home espresso machines
- Convenient 8.8oz/250g packaging
Cons:
- Limited to medium roast preference
- Not suitable for those who prefer whole beans
Bristot Espresso Cremoso Italiano Ground Coffee brings the authentic taste of Italy to your home. The medium roast ensures a balanced flavor that is neither too strong nor too mild, making it ideal for a variety of palates. Whether you’re a casual coffee drinker or an espresso aficionado, this coffee promises to deliver a delightful experience with every cup.
Crafted by procaff S.p.A, a renowned name in the coffee industry, Bristot Espresso Cremoso Italiano is designed to work seamlessly with home espresso machines. The 8.8oz/250g packaging is both convenient and practical, ensuring you always have fresh coffee on hand. However, if you prefer a different roast level or whole beans, you might find this product less suitable. Overall, this coffee is an excellent choice for anyone looking to enjoy high-quality Italian espresso at home.
To buy this product, click here.
4. Lavazza Espresso Whole Bean Coffee Blend

Lavazza Espresso Whole Bean Coffee Blend, Medium Roast, 2.2 Pound Bag is a premium quality coffee blend that promises a rich-bodied flavor. Made from 100% Arabica beans, this coffee is non-GMO and designed to offer a delightful espresso experience. Perfect for coffee enthusiasts who appreciate a well-crafted blend.
Pros:
- Premium quality coffee blend
- Rich-bodied flavor
- Made from 100% Arabica beans
- Non-GMO
Cons:
- Packaging may vary, which might not appeal to all buyers
- Dimensions of the bag might be considered bulky for some users
Lavazza Espresso Whole Bean Coffee Blend stands out due to its rich-bodied flavor and premium quality. The use of 100% Arabica beans ensures a consistently high-quality coffee experience, making it a favorite among espresso lovers. The non-GMO attribute further adds to its appeal, catering to health-conscious consumers.
However, the packaging may vary, which might be a downside for those who prefer consistency in their product presentation. Additionally, the dimensions of the bag could be seen as bulky, potentially posing storage challenges. Despite these minor cons, the overall quality and flavor of the coffee make it a worthwhile choice for anyone seeking a superior espresso blend.
To buy this product, click here.
5. Lavazza Espresso Ground Coffee Blend

Lavazza Espresso Ground Coffee Blend is a premium blend that comes in an 8-Oz can and is available in a pack of 4. This medium roast coffee is made from 100% Arabica beans and is Non-GMO. It is produced by the Lavazza Coffee Company and is known for its rich-bodied flavor. The packaging may vary.
Pros:
- Premium blend quality
- 100% Arabica beans
- Non-GMO certified
- Rich-bodied flavor
- Convenient pack of 4
Cons:
- Packaging may vary
- Medium roast may not suit all taste preferences
The Lavazza Espresso Ground Coffee Blend is an excellent choice for coffee enthusiasts who appreciate a rich-bodied and premium blend. The use of 100% Arabica beans ensures a high-quality brew that is both Non-GMO and flavorful. The convenience of the 8-Oz cans in a pack of 4 makes it a practical option for both personal use and gifting.
However, potential buyers should note that the packaging may vary, which might be a concern for those who prefer consistency in their product appearance. Additionally, the medium roast profile might not cater to everyone’s taste, particularly those who prefer a lighter or darker roast. Overall, the Lavazza Espresso Ground Coffee Blend stands out for its quality and convenience, making it a worthwhile addition to any coffee lover’s pantry.
To buy this product, click here.
6. Café Gaviña Espresso Roast Extra Fine Ground Coffee

Experience the rich and bold flavor of Café Gaviña Espresso Roast Extra Fine Ground Coffee, made from 100% Arabica beans. This premium coffee is perfect for those who appreciate a strong and aromatic cup of espresso. Packaged in a convenient set of three 10 oz cans, it’s an excellent choice for both daily brewing and special occasions.
Pros:
- Rich and bold flavor that coffee enthusiasts will love.
- Made from 100% Arabica beans for a high-quality taste.
- Convenient packaging with three 10 oz cans.
- Ground to an extra fine consistency, ideal for espresso.
Cons:
- May be too strong for those who prefer milder coffee.
- Some may find the extra fine grind not suitable for all brewing methods.
The Café Gaviña Espresso Roast Extra Fine Ground Coffee offers a robust and aromatic experience that is sure to satisfy any coffee lover. With its 100% Arabica beans, you can expect a consistently high-quality flavor in every cup. The extra fine grind makes it perfect for espresso machines, delivering a strong and flavorful shot of coffee.
While the intense flavor might not be suited for everyone, especially those who prefer a milder coffee, the rich taste is a significant advantage for espresso aficionados. Additionally, the packaging in three 10 oz cans ensures that you always have fresh coffee on hand, ready to brew whenever you need it. Whether you’re starting your day or enjoying a mid-afternoon pick-me-up, Café Gaviña Espresso Roast is a wonderful choice for a premium coffee experience.
To buy this product, click here.
7. Cafe La Llave Dark Roast Ground Espresso Coffee

Introducing the Cafe La Llave Dark Roast Ground Espresso Coffee, a rich and bold Cuban-style blend that is perfect for your Moka pot, espresso machine, or drip coffee maker. This 10 oz brick of coffee offers a strong and aromatic flavor that will delight any coffee enthusiast.
Pros:
- Rich and bold flavor that is characteristic of Cuban-style coffee.
- Versatile – suitable for various coffee-making methods including Moka pot, espresso machine, and drip coffee maker.
- Aromatic – provides a delightful coffee aroma that fills the room.
- Manufactured by F. Gavina & Sons, Inc., a reputable company with a long history of coffee production.
Cons:
- Some users may find the flavor too strong for their preference.
- The brick packaging may not be convenient for all users.
- Not ideal for those who prefer a milder coffee blend.
The Cafe La Llave Dark Roast Ground Espresso Coffee is a remarkable choice for coffee lovers who enjoy a robust and intense coffee experience. The Cuban-style blend is especially known for its rich and bold flavor, which stands out whether you’re using a Moka pot, an espresso machine, or a drip coffee maker. Its strong and aromatic notes make it a favorite among those who appreciate a full-bodied coffee.
Produced by the well-established F. Gavina & Sons, Inc., this coffee promises quality and consistency. The packaging, while traditional, ensures that the coffee remains fresh and flavorful. However, it may not be the most convenient for all users, and those who lean towards a milder coffee might find this blend a bit overwhelming. Despite these minor cons, the overall experience of Cafe La Llave Dark Roast Ground Espresso Coffee is highly satisfying and worth trying for those who love a potent cup of coffee.
To buy this product, click here.
8. Black Rifle Coffee Company Ak Espresso

Black Rifle Coffee Company AK Espresso, Medium Roast Ground Coffee, 12 OZ Bag is a unique blend that offers a rich and bold flavor. Designed for those who appreciate a strong coffee, this medium roast provides a perfect balance of taste and aroma.
Pros:
- Rich and bold flavor
- High-quality beans
- Medium roast suitable for various brewing methods
- Produced by a veteran-owned company
Cons:
- Higher price point compared to other brands
- Limited availability in some regions
The Black Rifle Coffee Company AK Espresso is not just any coffee; it is a product made with high-quality beans that ensure a rich and bold flavor. The medium roast is versatile and can be used with various brewing methods, making it a favorite among coffee enthusiasts. The fact that it is produced by a veteran-owned company adds to its appeal, as it supports a good cause while delivering a premium product.
However, there are a few downsides to consider. The higher price point might be a deterrent for some, and the limited availability in certain regions can make it challenging to obtain. Despite these cons, the overall quality and flavor of the Black Rifle Coffee Company AK Espresso make it a worthwhile purchase for those who seek a superior coffee experience.
To buy this product, click here.
9. Lavazza Espresso Dark Roast Ground Coffee

Lavazza Espresso Dark Roast Ground Coffee is a premium coffee blend that promises an authentic Italian coffee experience. This 8.8oz brick pack comes in a convenient 4-pack, making it perfect for coffee enthusiasts who want a consistent supply of rich and aromatic coffee. Roasted in Italy, this non-GMO coffee is crafted to deliver a bold and intense flavor, ensuring every cup is a delight.
Pros:
- Authentic Italian blend
- Rich and bold flavor
- Non-GMO
- Convenient 4-pack
- Roasted in Italy
Cons:
- Some may find it too strong
- Higher price point
The Lavazza Espresso Dark Roast Ground Coffee stands out for its authentic Italian heritage and meticulous roasting process. Each 8.8oz brick is designed to preserve the coffee’s freshness and aroma, ensuring that you get the best flavor in every cup. The dark roast profile brings out a robust and intense flavor that true coffee lovers will appreciate. Whether you enjoy it as a morning pick-me-up or an afternoon delight, this coffee is sure to satisfy your cravings.
One of the key features of this coffee is its non-GMO certification, ensuring that you are consuming a product that is free from genetically modified organisms. This commitment to quality is evident in every sip. Additionally, the 4-pack format is perfect for those who want to ensure they always have a supply of their favorite coffee on hand. While the bold flavor may not suit everyone, and the price point is on the higher side, the quality and authenticity of Lavazza Espresso Dark Roast Ground Coffee make it a worthwhile investment for coffee connoisseurs.
To buy this product, click here.
10. Lavazza Italian Roast Ground Coffee 12oz Bag

Introducing the Lavazza Italian Roast Ground Coffee 12oz Bag. This Dark Roast coffee promises a Strong and Bold Taste with an Intensity of 5/5. Made from 100% Arabica beans, it is Ideal for Drip Brewers. Note that the Package May Vary.
Pros:
- Strong and Bold Taste
- High Intensity (5/5)
- Made from 100% Arabica beans
- Ideal for Drip Brewers
Cons:
- Package May Vary
- Limited to Dark Roast only
The Lavazza Italian Roast Ground Coffee is a standout product for those who appreciate a strong and bold coffee experience. The high intensity level ensures that coffee lovers get a robust flavor with every brew. Being made from 100% Arabica beans, it guarantees a premium quality that is ideal for drip brewers. This coffee is perfect for those early mornings when you need a powerful kick-start to your day.
One of the significant highlights of this coffee is its versatility with drip brewers, making it a convenient choice for many households. However, potential buyers should note that the package may vary, which might be a slight inconvenience for some. Additionally, it is limited to those who prefer a dark roast, which might not cater to people who enjoy lighter or medium roasts. Despite these minor cons, the overall quality and taste of this coffee make it a worthwhile purchase for any coffee enthusiast.
To buy this product, click here.
Conclusion
Choosing the best ground coffee for your espresso machine can be a delightful journey. Each brand offers unique flavors and aromas. Starbucks, with its dark roast, provides a rich experience. Illy intenso brings bold notes of cocoa. Bristot offers a medium roast for a balanced taste.
Lavazza presents various options, from medium to dark roasts, catering to different preferences. Café gaviña and cafe la llave deliver strong, aromatic blends. Black rifle coffee company adds a robust choice with their ak espresso. All these options ensure there is something for every coffee lover.
Try different brands to find your favorite. Enjoy the rich, full-bodied flavors and elevate your coffee experience. Remember, the best coffee is the one that suits your taste. Happy brewing!
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is The Best Ground Coffee For Espresso Machines?
Starbucks Dark Roast, Illy Intenso, and Lavazza blends are top choices. They offer rich, robust, and full-bodied flavors.
Which Coffee Is Best For A Strong Espresso?
Cafe La Llave Dark Roast provides a strong, bold, and aromatic flavor perfect for a powerful espresso.
Is Starbucks Espresso Roast Good For Espresso Machines?
Yes, Starbucks Espresso Roast is excellent for espresso machines. It delivers a rich and intense flavor.
What Is The Best Medium Roast Ground Coffee?
Bristot Espresso Cremoso and Lavazza Espresso Medium Roast are ideal. They offer smooth, balanced flavors.
Which Coffee Has A Rich Cocoa Flavor?
Illy Intenso Ground Espresso Coffee has intense, robust notes of deep cocoa for a rich experience.
Are There Non-gmo Espresso Ground Coffee Options?
Yes, Lavazza and Black Rifle Coffee Company offer non-GMO ground coffee options, ensuring quality and safety.

Nasir is our resident expert with 5 years of experience in business development and marketing strategies. With a keen eye for market trends and a knack for creating impactful campaigns, Nasir helps drive our vision forward with innovative solutions and data-driven insights. His articles provide valuable perspectives on navigating the ever-evolving world of business.