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- Verified Buyer
I SO wanted this to work. My giant stainless steel espresso maker handle snapped off after many years of faithful service. I can not find this model: all components steel and capacity large enough for two big mugs (not shots) of espresso. I have ordered several others as a replacement … all meh: this one is no exception. Brews a decent single mug of espresso although it is still not large enough for two adults —which I figure maybe there is some post-Starbucks law limiting the size of home espresso making…so I’ll just need to buy two to use simultaneously. Fine. But not two of these: the bottom has a weird steel disc/plate tack-welded in 3 places. I know this because when I try cleaning it, those dots are still evident on both the inside and outside. And cleaning is another issue: the tack-welded plate somehow has a way for water to leak when on the burner…bubbles of steamy water fizzle all around the base during brewing. The espresso maker is a mess as is the stovetop. As scrub as I might, the gorgeous shine that I fell in love with is gone forever. An ugly disappointment.I wanted to like as this piece is beautiful. A bit pricey but a nice heavy stylish piece. I may have received a defective unit as others seem happy with This product in general. This exploded a huge mess all over our recently and in progress remodeled kitchen brand new stove. We’ll need to repaint walls. Broke dishes. Put a dent in the wood ceiling. Scalded my son and I. Scary! It was def not over filled, mis screwed or clogged by any misuse.I appreciate that the seller donates to freshwater but am now highly concerned about this unit.I’ve used moka pots before and never had one explode. Major bummer I wanted to like it but sending back. Spent the rest of the day & next day cleaning as the explosion hits walls/clg on the opposite side of the room.I am in communication with the company. They are responsive & will update accordingly.+: The handle did NOT get hot as I set on the edge of the burner & not directly over heat.It is nicely designed. Nothing similar on the market that I could find.The stainless is beautiful Howe the bottom tarnished after 1st use. It was so beautiful, I still would have kept it it it had not exploded later.We have TWO inductions This does NOT work on either oneIt did not explode , as had been stated on other reviews but 30 minutes later it was barely half full of weak coffee I ran a timer ,so I know it took 30 minutes no hissing, it never came to a boil NO instructions for those who don't have any experience in this type of coffee maker WE do ,howeverSays "induction ready base" ...NOT!!!! States 7 oz.We ended up with half of that amountIt is heavy and gorgeous but worthless because we use inductions for everything We do have another very old espresso maker to resort toTo have to return this is a hassle ,"5 -7days wait for a return label We have used stove top espresso makers for many years ( decades) and this was the worst one we have ever tried For us ,returning it involves 50 minutes round trip of driving to drop it off at the nearest UPS or Fedex and $20 in gas ,as well as having to be in a dangerous city (yep New Orleans does have car jackings ,muggings ,etc ) So Grosch can't come up with something better than this for $122 plus AND I don't see anywhere that it was made in Italy ,bottom says Established in Italy in 1924 and wash and dry by hand so there's that I regret ordering it in the first placeI bought this stainless steel Grosche unit because the plastic handle on my original much cheaper Moka pot melted on the stovetop (even though I tried to keep the flame as low as seemed reasonable). I decided that I wanted to get something with a handle that couldn't melt. Mission accomplished and more! I really appreciate the design of this Grosche Moka pot, as well as the heavy duty feel of the stainless steel components. The removable inside elements are made of aluminum though, just so you know. But the base and main pot that screws onto the top of it are definitely stainless steel.It heats up very efficiently and makes a great blend of espresso. Is it worth the extra money? I'd call it a luxury item, but one well worth having if you can afford it. I've used this nearly every single day since I bought it a couple months ago. I also bought a milk frother to go with it. I make delicious oat milk lattes most mornings.Beautiful and premium feel, great brew, smooth no drip pouring... if I’m nitpicking as one should at this price, the top lid’s hinge could’ve been made better, with less play and more reinforcement. I expect this to last, if anything breaks, it’ll be that hinge due to handling. Otherwise I’d buy again, worth it. I may order the larger size later :) Please keep in mind to remove the gasket when cleaning after each use and completely dry it, it can still rust even though it’s stainless steel. Take care of it and it’ll keep taking care of you.I have to give this item bad review with a heavy heart. I do really want to love and use it.However the whole construction is surprisingly flimsy, metal plate came separated from the boiler after less than 6 months using it, barely 1-2 times a week at most.Also we have noticed that inside the water boiler, the surface medal has changed color and substance. It was not washable. We were a little worried the potentially bad consequences to our health. Nonetheless, this morning, the bottom plate just became loose and dropped off.Coffee brewed from this device is deliciouse, but such quality is unacceptable. Especially with this price.Very stailish expresso maker! All parts are stainless steel including the inner parts which is a plus if you're looking for a healthy alternative to make an expresso coffee. Has two ways to set the mesh so you can chose a stronger or lighter brew.Am happy with the purchase and hope to enjoy it many years ro come.OK
