KitchenAid Metal Semi-Automatic Espresso Machine, Brushed Stainless Steel, KES6503

I held off writing a review until we had used the Espresso Machine for a while. I tried various amounts of grounds and cup sizes on the machine before figuring out which variable worked for us. My husband and I enjoy an Americano. We do not like it real strong. So, I make it with the single serve basket, set for 2 cups of espresso. Then I add 12 oz of water from the frother wand. I like it and it tastes smooth. We also purchased a grinder with multiple levels of grounds and only grind what we are actually going to use in a cup. The machine works well and we have had no issues with it at all.

[This review was collected as part of a promotion.] I am thoroughly IMPRESSED with customer service and my espresso machine. Delicious espresso. I'm incredibly picky/borderline coffee snob/coffee critic and I'm able to make delicious drinks at home. It's good to know that the milk steamer/frother is not like an actual one at a coffee shop in that it takes much longer (1-2 minutes) to achieve the desired results/consistency but can still be obtained—just not as quick. Still recommend! Other things to note: Height between group and base may not fit taller cups/mugs Heavier mugs preferred to avoid cups vibrating off when espresso is being expelled Steam wand has forward and back movements and is able to be rotated at the tip but is limited with its movements Clean up may require a little more time than a traditional coffee machine This is a programmable machine that may take some practice if a person is unfamiliar with espresso and brewing espresso—but it's so worth it!