Chat Plus: Espresso Makers

Washington: Any suggestions for a decent at-home espresso maker? There's quite a variety out there, and I'm not looking to spend more than $150. Thanks!

Joe Yonan: I took your question to Mark Prince at Coffeegeek.com, a Web site that posts incredibly detailed reviews of just about every machine that comes down the pike. The surprising news (to me, anyway) is that even though his favorite espresso makers can cost more than $1,000, Prince has found entry-level models at your limit (and a little higher) that he promises can turn out a decent shot.

He suggests you look at:

? Krups XP-4030 (about $150).

? Gaggia Carezza (about $200).

? Krups XP-4050 (about $250).

In all three cases, check prices online, because they can vary considerably. "Please stress that these are my minimum recommendations," Prince said. "If people are really strapped and they want decent espresso at home, this is the cheapest I can recommend."

He had another plea: Consider investing $100 in a better coffee grinder, which will make all the difference -- especially with a lower-end espresso maker.

Unlike simple blade grinders, which create uneven pieces and can heat up coffee beans, distorting their flavor, so-called burr grinders crush the beans more evenly without heating them. Although some cost several hundred dollars, Prince suggests you consider the Baratza Maestro Classic ($100 to $150).

"The insider secret about espresso at home is that it's about the grinder, not the maker," he says.

For more information, read Prince's fantastic guide to buying an espresso maker at http://coffeegeek.com/guides.