“The Lion’s Den”
GALA has tested the “Coffee Colorato” milk foam printer
© TVNOW / Bernd-Michael Maure
With “Die Höhle der Löwen” the founders of “Coffee Colorato” explain that they can print every selfie, logo and even lettering on milk foam. Crazy! GALA first had to test that itself.
With “Coffee Colorato” the milk foam art of the barista is to be raised to the next level. The brothers Angelo, 31, and Sandro Torcia, 27, will present their invention at “The Lion’s Den” on Monday, April 26, 2021. GALA was allowed to view and test one of the devices in advance. You can read the result here.
The lion’s den: With “Coffee Colorato” to milk froth happiness?
I, GALA editor, Julia admit it: When a barista hands me a freshly brewed latte over the counter, my heart beats faster. If the person has also let off steam with a small work of art on the milk foam, I am even more enthusiastic. If I saw a selfie or a cool logo of the café on it – I would look more than incredulous. This is exactly what the “Coffee Colorato” by the Torcia brothers promises. Before I tell you whether the milk frother printer really works, let’s first take a look at the facts.
This is what the “Coffee Colorato” promises:
- Two different devices: The “Coloranino” is designed for printing pictures / selfies; the smaller version “Cignature” prints lettering and logos.
- Not only embellishes milk foam, but also frothy toppings on cocktails or even the head of beer.
- Works with tasteless, EU approved food coloring. The five colors are all vegan and gluten-free.
GALA tests the milk foam printer
© private / Gala
For my test, the smaller version of the milk foam printer is available to me – the “Cignature” – to disposal. It seems to be handy and easy to use. After a few minor teething problems, my impression is confirmed. A user-friendly app connects to the device and guides me through the process. I can enter text or upload pictures by hand or using the keyboard. A rail, on which I place the device for printing, guides my hand and beeps indicate possible actions.
Granted: I need a few attempts to get proper GALA lettering. The printer reacts a little delayed and so I “roll” too early at the beginning and the lettering starts too late, so that I print over the edge. A small wheel on the printer ensures that the speed of my hand movement affects the printing process and that with a little practice I can achieve a successful result.
© private
In terms of taste, the product keeps what it promises: Because it is just as tasteless as advertised and therefore does not interfere with coffee enjoyment. So there is nothing to complain about in that regard.
My conclusion on the Coffee Colorato Cignature
The “Coffee Colorato” inspired me from the idea to the result. What I could hardly imagine at the beginning has proven itself: the device works. However, the milk foam printer is anything but a bargain. For the “ordinary” coffee lover and “a gag for in between” it is probably not worth it. For café owners or companies who want to be remembered by their customers, this milk foam printer is definitely a cool gadget.
Will the founders be able to convince a lioness or a lion?
The founders vie for the lions’ favor in the current broadcast of “Die Höhle der Löwen”. No wonder! After all, they put years of work and a lot of passion into the development. While they had to cope with the loss of their mother and later the corona pandemic struck, the brothers had to pull themselves together again and again and keep their project going.
The trouble was worth it. Especially the lioness Dagmar Wöhrl and the lion Carsten Maschmeyer were completely enthusiastic after the presentation. Together they secured the deal with the brothers and struck at 175,000 euros for 25 percent company shares.
Did you miss an episode or want an overview? All further information about “The Lion’s Den” can be found here.
Sources used: The Lions’ Den, Vox, Coffee Colorato