advice on purchasing stovetop espresso/cappuccino makers

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Want to buy an espresso maker w/ milk frothing ability but don't want to buy a cheap electric one that's gonna' break down and can't afford the 300+ to spend on a better, more durable one - so have decided buy a stove top espresso/cappuccino maker (examples I've found so far are the San Remo Stovetop Espresso & Cappuccino Maker or the Via Veneto/Bellman Stovetop Espresso & Cappuccino Maker). My question is: Do they work well - make good espresso? Do they have the capacity to steam the milk after making the espresso? Which models/manufacurers have best results. Are they used in Italy? Any advice would be appreciated. Thanks.

-- Moji (moji@dkoarchitects.com), May 15, 2003

Answers

i have a bellman i paid $5 (Australian) for in an op-shop. It works a treat. better now i've downloaded the 'de'structions' from the web. It helps to have the milk at room temp -or to warm it first.

-- (fmmar2@student.monash.edu.au), June 17, 2003.

Yes, they work great. I bought a used one in a goodwill store for $8 18 mos ago, and I use it once per week. They make great espresso, great cappucino, but I use it about half the time to make chai tea. which is basically a cappucino w/tea instead of coffee. Yes, they have the capacity to steam the milk, and they do a very good job. also, I suggest purchasing a metal frothing cup with a rubber handle, it is much better than a ceramic mug.

-- kermit (kermit@fakemail.com), June 18, 2003.

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