Bialetti Venus Induction Espresso Maker - 4 Cups

This is a Bialetti coffee maker (technically they are percolators and not true espresso makers - nobody cares). It's pluses are 1. it is stainless steel, not aluminum, so it works with induction stove tops. 2. Even though it is a 4 (espresso) cup machine it can use the gaskets and screens from the 3 cup makers (it is a little taller and thinner). 3. It makes enough coffee to last until I finish breakfast. It's only minus is it is a little difficult to really clean by hand - if it fit in your dishwasher it should be no problem and it is a little bit harder to find the screens for these than the 3 cup ones - though you can use the ones from the 3 cup ones.

I've used the 6 cup version for years and it's a great way to make coffee. Use boiling water in the bottom, grind a bit coarser than normal espresso, use a low heat and turn the heat off as soon as the liquid starts to appear, the residual heat will push the water through without getting a burnt flavour. If it starts to splutter and spit, run the base under cold water. No, you won't get crema (as a previous reviewer states) but that's because it's not espresso. You don't get the carbon dioxide reaction that creates crema unless you're brewing with espresso-type pressures (9 bars). You're not supposed to get crema with a stove-top coffee maker.For me, this is one of the best ways to make coffee at home. Espresso is my favourite type of coffee, but it isn't easy to ... MoreI've used the 6 cup version for years and it's a great way to make coffee. Use boiling water in the bottom, grind a bit coarser than normal espresso, use a low heat and turn the heat off as soon as the liquid starts to appear, the residual heat will push the water through without getting a burnt flavour. If it starts to splutter and spit, run the base under cold water. No, you won't get crema (as a previous reviewer states) but that's because it's not espresso. You don't get the carbon dioxide reaction that creates crema unless you're brewing with espresso-type pressures (9 bars). You're not supposed to get crema with a stove-top coffee maker.For me, this is one of the best ways to make coffee at home. Espresso is my favourite type of coffee, but it isn't easy to make at home, even with expensive equipment. The Bialetti Venus makes great coffee that's still strong, and much more delicious than filter or pour-overs.

I prefer making my coffee using a stovetop or 'Moka' pot. Whilst not strictly espresso, which needs more pressure and creates the frothy crema, it makes a hotter, better tasting and richer coffee than using a French press (plunger). I once read that the stovetop method is also healthiest. I have used one for nearly 30 years and would never bother with anything else now. The only change I made was to get a stainless steel one.I am going to try RamblingDave's suggestion of using boiling water and turning the gas off sooner, to see if I can improve my coffee even more!Another reviewer complained of a failed seal. Apparently the seals don't fare well in the dishwasher, which might be why theirs didn't last long, but these are easily replaceable anyway and one would ... MoreI prefer making my coffee using a stovetop or 'Moka' pot. Whilst not strictly espresso, which needs more pressure and creates the frothy crema, it makes a hotter, better tasting and richer coffee than using a French press (plunger). I once read that the stovetop method is also healthiest. I have used one for nearly 30 years and would never bother with anything else now. The only change I made was to get a stainless steel one.I am going to try RamblingDave's suggestion of using boiling water and turning the gas off sooner, to see if I can improve my coffee even more!Another reviewer complained of a failed seal. Apparently the seals don't fare well in the dishwasher, which might be why theirs didn't last long, but these are easily replaceable anyway and one would expect to replace them every so often.