DeLonghi La Specialista
Handcraft your coffee
Setting La Specialista to be ready for first use
Wash and dry all accessories.
Insert the coffee bean container and turn it until it clicks into place.
Insert the drip tray with the cup grill.
Fill the water tank.
Plug in the machine and switch it on at the main power button.
Place a container under the coffee outlets.
Press the rinse button [water-drop symbol] to rinse the system.
Attach the filter holder and press the rinse button [water-drop symbol] again.
Open the steam dial for approximately 10 seconds [10-second timer].
Select your desired beverage. Your La Specialista is now ready to start making coffee.
For more details on setting up your La Specialista, please check out the De'Longhi How To Channel on YouTube: De'Longhi YouTube Channel.
1 Grinding
Sensor GRINDING TECHNOLOGY
Proper grinding is key in the authentic preparation of espresso. The exclusive Sensor Grinding Technology ensures a precise and consistent coffee dose, according to your preferred grinding setting.
Warm your cup by rinsing hot water through the empty filter holder.
Select the single or double filter. For a double shot, press the “X2” button before grinding.
Turn the bean hopper dial one position at a time to adjust the grinding level. This setting should only be adjusted while the grinder is operating.
Adjust the dose dial to achieve the correct amount of coffee grounds.
2 Tamping
Smart TAMPING STATION
A perfect coffee dose must be pressed in the right way. The Smart Tamping Station applies the correct pressure for optimal extraction, leaving the working area perfectly clean.
After grinding, pull the tamping lever down fully. Do not remove the filter holder at this stage.
Remove the filter holder and check the coffee dose level.
Ensure the coffee dose level is at the indicator line. [✔️ Correct dose] [❌ Incorrect dose] [❌ Incorrect dose]
Attach the filter holder to the machine; you are now ready to brew.
3 Brewing
Active TEMPERATURE CONTROL
The perfect extraction needs a consistent brewing temperature. The Active Temperature Control provides precise temperature stability for the best in-cup result.
Select your desired beverage.
Press the OK button to start brewing, which includes pre-infusion and infusion.
Espresso Quality Indicators:
PERFECT ESPRESSO: Compact, nut-coloured crema. Balanced, long-lasting taste. Rounded body.
UNDER-EXTRACTED: Light and thin crema. Weak taste. Watery body.
OVER-EXTRACTED: Dark, thin crema. Bitterish, astringent taste. Heavy body.
4 Milk Frothing
Advanced LATTE SYSTEM
A cappuccino that fully reflects Italian tradition starts with the preparation of a superb espresso and continues with meticulous frothing of the milk. The Advanced Latte System ensures full froth creamy cappuccino or silky smooth steamed milk with ease.
Place the milk jug under the steam nozzle.
Select FLAT (for steaming milk) or FOAM (for frothing milk).
Open the steam dial until the milk reaches the desired temperature or texture [approx. 60 seconds].
Pour the frothed milk over the espresso and enjoy.
Hints and Tips
Milk Frothing
Milk Types:
- Cow Milk
- Soy
- Rice
- Almond
For high-quality frothing, fresh refrigerated milk is recommended. Frothing quality may vary depending on the type of milk or plant-based drink used.
Easy Cleaning
Regularly dismantle and clean the filter with warm water.
Remove and clean the steam nozzles after each use to prevent milk residue buildup.
Cup Compatibility
Ensure your cup fits under the dispenser. The La Specialista can accommodate cups up to 12 cm in height.
