Who invented the first non-automatic steam-based espresso machine?

The first non-automatic steam-based espresso machine was invented by Luigi Bezzera. He was an Italian inventor who developed this machine in the early 1900s, specifically in 1901. Bezzera’s innovation allowed for a quicker brewing process, which was a significant advancement over the traditional methods of coffee preparation at the time. His design utilized steam pressure to force hot water through coffee grounds, creating a concentrated shot of coffee, which is the essence of what espresso is today.

The importance of this invention cannot be overstated, as it paved the way for subsequent developments in espresso machines, ultimately leading to the automatic machines that are common in coffee shops today. Bezzera's machine introduced the idea of brewing coffee under pressure, a concept that is foundational in espresso-making.