10 Best Espresso Grounds 2026 in the United States

Lavazza Espresso Ground Coffee is a medium roast, 100% Arabica blend that caters well to espresso enthusiasts. With its 5/10 intensity, it offers a balanced, sweet, and aromatic flavor profile with floral and fruity notes. The coffee is sourced from South America and Africa, ensuring a rich and diverse taste.

The medium roast level is suitable for most coffee drinkers who prefer a moderate yet flavorful experience. The 20 oz bag in a pack of 6 makes it convenient for regular use, whether you are using an espresso machine, moka pot, drip coffee maker, or French press.

One of the primary strengths is its versatility in preparation methods, providing flexibility for various brewing preferences. Additionally, being 100% Arabica, it assures a high-quality and naturally caffeinated product. However, some potential drawbacks include the fact that it is a pre-ground coffee, which might not be as fresh as grinding beans yourself. Also, while the medium roast is generally appealing, those who prefer a very bold or very light coffee might find it less satisfying. The blend, although well-balanced, may not offer the distinctiveness of a single-origin coffee. This product is likely to be a good fit for those who appreciate a reliable and versatile medium roast espresso with a sweet and aromatic finish.

illy Ground Coffee Espresso is a medium roast, finely ground coffee made from 100% Arabica beans, designed for espresso lovers seeking a smooth and balanced cup. As a blend, it combines carefully selected beans to deliver a consistent flavor profile with pleasant notes of caramel, orange blossom, and jasmine, which makes it approachable for those who enjoy a classic Italian-style espresso. The medium roast strikes a good balance—not too light or too dark—allowing the flavor to be rich without bitterness.

Since it comes pre-ground, it's convenient for quick preparation, although it may not be as fresh as grinding your own beans right before brewing. The 4.4-ounce package is small, which can help maintain freshness if used promptly. This coffee is well-suited for people who want an easy-to-use, quality espresso ground without fussing over grind size settings or single-origin specifics. However, for those who prefer experimenting with bean origins or adjusting grind size for different espresso machines, this product might feel limited.

Additionally, since it’s discontinued by the manufacturer, availability could be a concern. illy’s espresso grounds provide a reliable, flavorful experience with a smooth, aromatic profile that fits well for casual espresso drinkers wanting a straightforward and authentic Italian coffee taste.

The illy Ground Coffee Espresso - Intenso Dark Roast offers a distinctive and bold flavor profile, featuring warm notes of cocoa and dried fruit. This coffee is made from 100% Arabica beans, which are known for their high quality and rich taste. The dark roast level ensures a full-bodied cup of coffee, perfect for those who enjoy a strong and intense flavor.

The grind size is suitable for espresso preparation, making it convenient for home use to evoke that classic Italian coffee experience. One of the standout features of this product is the careful selection of beans; illy claims to use only the top 1% of the finest beans, emphasizing their focus on quality and sustainability. This attention to detail is reflected in the rich, aromatic profile of the coffee.

Additionally, illy's commitment to sustainability and their long-standing reputation add to the appeal of this product. However, there are a few considerations to keep in mind. The coffee is pre-ground, which may affect its freshness compared to whole beans that are ground just before brewing. Also, being discontinued by the manufacturer might make it difficult to find this specific product in the future. Despite these points, for those looking for a high-quality, dark roast espresso with a robust flavor, illy Ground Coffee Espresso - Intenso Dark Roast is a strong contender.