If you believe coffee should be as beautiful as it is brilliant, Modbar is your new benchmark. Created in partnership with La Marzocco, Modbar relocates the “machine” under the counter and leaves only elegant taps on show—opening the bar, elevating guest interaction, and turning every serve into a moment of theatre. This blog explores the complete Modbar range (Espresso AV, Espresso EP, Steam, and Pour-Over), how each module works, and why premium cafés, hotels, and bars are embracing this design-led approach to coffee service.
Why Modbar?
Open, human-centred service – With the cladding and boilers hidden below, the counter becomes a clean stage for baristas and mixologists. Guests see the craft, not the clutter—perfect for experiential hospitality.
La Marzocco engineering – Under the minimalist exterior is serious performance: thermal stability, precise controls, and workflow tools trusted by top operators worldwide.
Modular, scalable, customisable – Build your bar your way. Add taps, choose finishes, integrate with POS and layout. As your concept grows, Modbar grows with you.
Design freedom – From monolithic marble bars to warm timber counters, Modbar disappears into your interior scheme—supporting your brand instead of competing with it.
The Modbar Line-Up
1) Espresso AV — Consistency Meets Elegance
Best for: high-volume espresso bars, premium hotel lobbies, busy cocktail programs needing repeatable shots (espresso martinis, Irish coffees, affogatos).
2) Espresso EP — Total Control for Signature Profiles
Best for: speciality cafés, roasteries, tasting bars, venues showcasing single origins or seasonal menus.
3) Steam System — Dry Power, Microfoam Mastery
Best for: milk-forward menus, latte-art showcases, high-throughput service areas, multi-station bars.
4) Pour-Over System — Automated Precision, Handcrafted Flavour
Best for: café bars with filter or cold brew programs, hotel lounges offering premium batch alternatives, bars serving signature coffee cocktails.
Where Modbar Shines: Real-World Applications
High-End Coffee Shops & Roasteries
Experience first: Guests watch extractions and milk texturing up close—education and entertainment rolled into one.
Workflow clarity: Open counters improve communication, reduce barriers, and speed up service.
Brand expression: Custom finishes and minimalist lines let your interior do the talking.
Suggested build: Espresso EP + Steam (dual tap) + Pour-Over tap for curated filter flights.
Luxury Hotels & Restaurants
Lobby-worthy aesthetics: Under-counter design complements premium materials and lighting.
All-day versatility: Morning lattés, afternoon Americanos, after-dinner espressos—with the same refined look.
Events & banqueting: Multiple taps allow discrete, high-quality service without bulky machinery.
Suggested build: Espresso AV (two taps) + Steam + Hot Water faucet; add Pour-Over for VIP/club lounges.
Premium Bars & Nightclubs
Cocktail integration: Baristas and bartenders share an open line, enabling espresso martinis, coffee Old Fashioneds, and signature serves without crowding.
Speed + consistency: AV delivers repeatable shots at pace; Steam keeps microfoam consistent for coffee cocktails.
Design cohesion: Keep the backbar clean and the customer sightlines unobstructed.
Suggested build: Espresso AV (two taps) + Steam; add Pour-Over for coffee-forward signature cocktails.
Design & Installation Considerations
Under-counter planning: Allow for power, water, waste, ventilation, and service access. Modbar modules are designed for straightforward maintenance—plan a service panel.
Countertop integrity: Choose materials and reinforcement suitable for tap mounting and frequent cleaning.
Ergonomics & flow: Position taps for natural reach; keep milk, pitchers, grinders, and cups within a tight triangle to minimise movement.
Acoustics & lighting: With the counter opened up, consider ambient noise control and focused task lighting to highlight the craft.
Future growth: Leave space for a second tap or a hot water faucet; Modbar’s modularity is your friend.
Barista Tech by Taylor UK can advise on layout, utilities, and commissioning to ensure your install is flawless from day one.
Operational Advantages & ROI Talking Points
Higher perceived value: Theatre and transparency justify premium pricing.
Faster onboarding: Intuitive controls (especially AV) help new baristas achieve consistency quickly.
Throughput with aesthetics: Dual-tap configurations scale volume without visual bulk.
Maintenance made easier: Logical access to connections and intelligent cleaning/rinse programs reduce downtime.
Menu expansion: Pressure profiling (EP) and automated pour-over unlock seasonal offerings and experiential tastings.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will Modbar fit my existing bar? – In most cases, yes. The under-counter modules are compact and can be integrated during a refurb or new build. We’ll help assess space, services, and structural needs.
Which espresso option should I pick—AV or EP? – Choose AV for high-volume environments prioritising repeatability and speed. Choose EP if you want pressure profiling and deeper control for signature coffees.
Is milk performance on par with traditional machines? – Yes—Modbar Steam delivers powerful, dry steam with minimal purge and a Pro Touch wand for safe, comfortable use.
Can I scale later? – Absolutely. Add a second tap, introduce Pour-Over, or expand service zones as your concept grows.
The Bottom Line
Modbar is more than equipment—it’s a design philosophy that puts hospitality, performance, and brand expression at the centre of your coffee program. Whether you’re a speciality café, a five-star hotel, or a destination bar, Modbar helps you craft better drinks, stronger connections, and a more memorable guest experience.
Ready to reimagine your bar?
Barista Tech by Taylor UK supplies, installs, and supports the full Modbar range nationwide. Book a consultation or live demo to see Modbar in action.
