Krups IL Caffe Bistro 867

The KRUPS IL Caffé Bistro, Model # 867, is a versatile, programmable combination coffee, espresso, and cappuccino maker designed for household use. This all-in-one system aims to simplify coffee and espresso preparation, offering convenience and consistent performance.

Function Description:

The IL Caffé Bistro integrates three primary functions: coffee brewing, espresso making, and cappuccino preparation. It features an electronic programming panel that allows users to set a "Wake-Up" time for freshly brewed coffee up to 24 hours in advance.

For coffee brewing, the machine includes a hinged water chamber lid, an On/Off button, a swing-out filter holder, a glass carafe, and a thermostatically controlled warming plate. Users fill the water chamber with cold water and place ground coffee in a paper filter within the swing-out filter holder. The "Stop'N Serve" feature allows for temporary removal of the carafe during brewing without dripping, stopping the coffee flow for approximately 20 seconds. The machine also has an automatic shutoff feature that turns off the warming plate two hours after brewing to prevent the coffee from losing flavor, save energy, and enhance safety.

For espresso making, the device utilizes a boiler cap, a selector switch with positions for espresso, off, and steam, a filter holder, a filter basket, and a glass carafe with a handle and lid. Espresso is brewed by filling the filter basket with ground espresso coffee, packing it lightly, and then filling the boiler chamber with fresh, cold water. The selector switch is turned to the espresso position, and after a brief heating period, the water passes through the coffee to produce espresso. The machine is designed to produce a rich, dark, and delicious espresso, typically served in small demitasse cups.

For cappuccino preparation, the IL Caffé Bistro includes a steam nozzle and a Perfect Froth attachment. After making espresso, the selector switch can be turned to the steam position to generate steam for frothing milk. The Perfect Froth attachment helps in creating a creamy froth for cappuccino. The process involves frothing cold milk in a stainless steel pitcher using the steam nozzle and then combining it with espresso.

Usage Features:

The IL Caffé Bistro emphasizes ease of use with its intuitive controls.

Digital Clock and Programming: The machine features a digital clock that needs to be set upon plugging in. The "Wake-Up" time can be programmed using "h" (hour) and "m" (minute) buttons, allowing users to wake up to freshly brewed coffee. AM/PM indicators are present on the LED display.
Coffee Preparation: To prepare coffee, the swing-out filter is opened, a paper filter (KRUPS size 4 recommended) is inserted, and ground coffee is added. The filter should be conformed to the holder's contours for better results. The water chamber is filled with cold water, and the glass carafe with its lid properly positioned is placed on the warming plate. The "On/Off" button initiates brewing, and a red indicator light signals operation.
Espresso Preparation: The filter basket is inserted into the filter holder, and ground espresso coffee is filled to the desired 2 or 4-cup level. The coffee should be packed lightly, and excess coffee cleared from the rim. The filter holder is then secured into the brewing head by aligning arrows and turning it firmly to the right until it locks. The boiler cap is placed and turned clockwise until secure. Cold water is added to the boiler chamber using the glass carafe. The carafe with its lid (opening pointing towards the pouring spout) is positioned under the filter holder, or a cup adapter can be used for direct cup brewing. The selector switch is turned to the espresso position, and an indicator light illuminates. After approximately 2 minutes, espresso begins to brew. Once brewing stops, the switch is returned to the "0" (off) position.
Cappuccino Preparation: Espresso is made first. Then, cold milk is frothed in a pitcher using the steam nozzle with the Perfect Froth attachment. The selector switch is moved to the steam position for frothing, and then back to espresso to finish brewing if needed. The frothed milk is then added to the espresso.
Power Failure Back-Up: An electronic device stores functions for up to 6 seconds during a power surge or failure. If the interruption lasts longer, the machine switches off, and the clock and programmed times will flash, requiring a reset.

Maintenance Features:

Regular cleaning and decalcifying are essential for maintaining the performance and longevity of the IL Caffé Bistro.

General Cleaning: Before cleaning, the machine should be unplugged and allowed to cool. The filter holder, filter basket, carafe, carafe lid, and overflow grid are dishwasher-safe (upper rack, away from heating/drying element). The machine's body can be wiped clean with a damp cloth; it should never be immersed in water or any other liquid. The brewing head should be cleaned with a damp cloth to remove ground coffee. If water remains in the boiler chamber, the machine can be turned upside down to empty it.
Cleaning the Steam Nozzle: The steam nozzle must be cleaned after each use with milk to prevent clogging. If clogging occurs, the tip of the nozzle can be unscrewed, and milk particles removed with a sewing needle, then rinsed. After frothing, the outside of the nozzle should be wiped with a wet cloth, and steam should be briefly released into the cloth to flush out any residue.
Cleaning the Perfect Froth Attachment: Part C of the Perfect Froth attachment should be removed for thorough cleaning and rinsed in warm water. If the small suction opening in part A is clogged, it can be cleared with a straight pin or paper clip.
Cleaning the Drip Tray: The overflow grid is removable for cleaning.
Decalcifying the Espresso Machine: Decalcification is required regularly, with frequency depending on water hardness and usage. Before descaling, the brewing sieve on the brewing head must be screwed off, and all lime and coffee residues removed. The "Perfect Froth" attachment should also be pulled off. A solution of 2 tablespoonfuls of citric acid in 10 fluid ounces of lukewarm water is poured into the boiler container. Receptacles are placed under the brewing head and steam nozzle. The selector switch is turned to steam for 30 seconds, then to espresso to allow the descaling solution to pass through. This process is repeated, allowing the appliance to cool between cycles. Finally, two boiler containerfuls of clear water are run through the system, and the brewing sieve and Perfect Froth attachment are reinserted. The manual recommends using biological materials like citric acid for ecological and health reasons. Increased noise during boiling and longer preparation times are indicators that descaling is necessary.