Quoted from klr650:

For a professional Barista experience, I highly recommend the Rancilio Silvia Espresso machine. This is the most popular entry level machine for learning how to make a REAL espresso. Made in Italy, ALL parts are professional grade and user-serviceable (replaceable). It has a real brass boiler, a real steam wand, and a professional sized portafilter. This is a REAL espresso machine! No "cheater syphon wands", no "cheater pressurized portafilters", No BS. But be warned, you WILL need to pair this machine with a professional BURR grinder (e.g. Rancilio Rocky or Baratza Vario grinder) and you WILL need to purchase coffee beans that have been locally roasted (not grocery store crap beans). But like I said, this is for people who want REAL espresso and the full barista "experience". Much like Pinball, this is a hobby where you can get much "further down the rabbit hole". For example, once you master grinding, espresso, cappuccino, and lattes, you might (as I have) try roasting your own coffee beans! This is (in my opinion) where things will get waaaaay more interesting! . Anyone interested in how to Roast coffee beans, check out Sweet Maria's website:
https://www.sweetmarias.com
Special Note: If you just want a kick ass espresso with no effort, just buy a Nespresso. Nespresso is by far the best way for a regular dude to make an espresso at home.