Looking for *authentic* coffee / espresso?

Author's Rating:

Pros: Attractive, easy to use / clean

Cons: Residue on metal / metallic taste

The Bottom Line: 
If you're looking for an alternative to an expensive espresso maker or a less messy cousin of the French press, the Bialetti Moka is your answer.

Author's Review
Italy: land of pizza, pasta, and great coffee. However, most Italians have never set foot in a Starbucks and have never heard of Frappuccinos. Instead, straight espresso is preferred as a breakfast drink, and nearly every household in Italy (and Spain, where I lived on two separate occasions) has an aluminum stovetop espresso maker like this lovely one from Bialetti.

Fabulously easy to use and clean, your coffee is ready in no time flat (it's similar in concept to the percolator coffee your parents and grandparents grew up on). You simply add water to the bottom compartment, add the coffee into the filter, and set it on the stovetop to boil. It's safe for gas, electric, or ceramic stovetops. Also, don't use abrasive cleaners or steel wool, or you'll scratch the finish. Make sure to dry it thoroughly before you put it away.

It makes a great conversation piece for your friends who are either used to drinking substandard service station coffee or expensive trendy coffee drinks that've strayed from the true roots of Italy's espresso. At this price, they make great gifts, but be sure to buy one for yourself, too. And as a bonus, the coffeemaker looks great on your counter; I even display mine on the mantel when it's not in use and decorate it by adding seasonal bows.