An Expert's Review of the Sanremo Café Racer Espresso Machine

In the specialty coffee community, Sanremo espresso machines are synonymous with innovation. With each new espresso machine, the company introduces new features designed to improve drink quality and barista workflow. 

The wide range of features available with the Sanremo Café Racer are a testament to the company’s goal of achieving “technology excellence.”

But is the Sanremo Café Racer the best choice for your coffee shop?

The Sanremo Café Racer espresso machine boasts reliable thermal stability, advanced brewing features, and intuitive barista controls—plus a fully customizable appearance. We’ve put together this guide to help you decide if the Café Racer is the ideal espresso machine for your coffee shop.

In our guide, you’ll discover:

• Which espresso machine features deliver great-tasting drinks while keeping up with the demands of a busy rush
• How coffee shops can customize the Café Racer to match their interior design
• How the Café Racer compares to other Sanremo espresso machines (+ the competition.)

Sanremo Café Racer: An Overview

Sanremo’s Café Racer espresso machine was inspired by the freedom, maximum performance, and aesthetically pleasing design of premium motorcycles. This influence translates not only into the physical appearance of the espresso machine but also into its technology. 

This commercial espresso machine gives baristas the freedom to optimize espresso performance reliably through a myriad of features, including:

• Multiboiler system — With a multiboiler system in place, the Café Racer leverages four points of temperature PID control for meticulous thermal precision.

• Volumetric controls — The Café Racer’s volumetric flowmeter and pump work together to ensure espresso precision, from pressure to output—meaning baristas can rely on the machine to extract quality espresso, even during the busiest of rushes.

• Energy-saving technology — Sanremo’s machines enable coffee shop owners to save 20% or more on energy costs, thanks to the machines’ component insulation and technology design.

• Smart-touch controls — Each grouphead boasts a sleek digital display, giving baristas control over every aspect of brewing. 

• Thermal stability — The Café Racer’s use of AISI 316 steel for the portafilters and boilers, and AISI 316L steel for each group, leads to superior thermal stability throughout the machine.

• Soft pre-infusion — Sanremo’s Flowactive System provides accurate water flow and pre-infusion time control.

• Adjustable height — Accommodate multiple cup shapes and heights with the all-in-one suspension system.

Available Modifications

On top of precision brewing technology, Sanremo espresso machines are known for their customization capabilities. You can match your Café Racer espresso machine to the aesthetics of your coffee shop through these options:

• Naked — Give baristas and customers a look inside the machine with a transparent machine body, sturdy frame, and stylish accents. Available in black and steel finishes, as well as with black or red accents.

• Freedom — Choose from four colored side panels with the Sanremo Café Racer logo.

• Renegade — Boasting natural leather, oxidized copper, and brass, this steampunk look is ideal for cozy shops serious about their espresso.

• Dolomiti — A black leather design will complement both minimalist and maximalist shop designs.

• Moto di Ferro — Inspired by motorcycle workshops, this matte black and aluminum espresso machine exterior fits in great with rebellious interior designs.

• Racing — Complete with red accents and a carbon frame, the racing-inspired Café Racer looks like it should be out there on the track with the pros.

• Black & White — An elegant and clean design for upscale shops. Also available in full white.

• White & Wood — Natural oak complements the white dye frame for a cozy sophistication.

Machine Size

Choose between a two- and three-group machine to best suit your coffee shop’s beverage volume.

Discover the latest prices for the Sanremo Café Racer.

How Does the Sanremo Café Racer Compare?

Sanremo is known for producing top espresso machines complete with reliable features. So how does the Café Racer compare to the rest of Sanremo’s espresso machine lineup?

Let’s take a look.

In comparison to other Sanremo espresso machines, the Café Racer is the perfect combination of technology and craftsmanship. Whether you need to tackle a morning rush or craft a new espresso profile, coffee shops can rely on the Café Racer to do it all.

Unlike the Sanremo Opera, however, the Café Racer cannot dial-in and save different profiles per grouphead. This functionality is ideal when offering multiple single origin coffees or specialty beverages on bar.

There are numerous espresso machine manufacturers to choose from. Let’s explore how the Sanremo Café Racer compares to two manufacturing giants: Slayer and La Marzocco.

In addition to advanced espresso features at a reasonable price, the Sanremo Café Racer also provides the most customizable options for coffee shops looking for an espresso machine design that complements their interior aesthetic.

The Sanremo Café Racer: In Review

The Sanremo Café Racer is a fantastic espresso machine for coffee shops and baristas searching for reliable volumetric controls coupled with eye-popping customization. 

Before purchasing the Sanremo Café Racer for your coffee shop, let’s review the machine’s pros and cons.

Overall, the Sanremo Café Racer is best for coffee shops interested in:

• Serving high-quality espresso beverages in a busy shop environment
• Choosing an espresso machine that delivers on functionality and appearance
• Leveraging the energy savings system of a reliable espresso machine

Ready to add the Sanremo Café Racer to your bar? Browse our available Sanremo espresso machines.