Wednesday, July 04, 2001


sometimes you don't want an espresso, and the fragile glass vac pot seems like too much work. . .for these times you long for the rich, yet simple coffee made in the stovetop moka or napoletana pot.

while we're used to the basic octagonal versions of these, pressed from cheap aluminum, you may rightly feel that they're not handsome enough to sit out on your stove all the time. which is why i'd like to direct you to some sites that offer better looking, stainless steel stovetop pots that won't break the bank. and yet they still make delightful gourmet coffee.

vev is a name well-known in italy. i particularly like the slender and handsome vespresso pot. despite its sleek shape, it's made of heavy materials, which conduct and hold the heat well. however, you may find the straight handle hard to hold.

if so, perhaps you'd be more interested the musa pot by respected maker guido bergna. its curved bakelite handle is pleasant to hold. the matching euro-sized coffee cups and vinegar and oil decantars are quite stylish too.

bialetti offers a nice pot, class, with a gently curved rubber handle that's heat resistant and especially easy to grip. any of these pots would look quite attractive in your kitchen and won't break the bank.

if you're not on a budget, however, do take a gander at the high-end alessi pots. they are gorgeous and functional. for example, the famous 9090 post-modern retro pot by designer richard sapper. however, i personally prefer the looks of another alessi pot, the 90018 by riccardo dalisi. however, its straight wooden handle and plain stainless loop are probably not the nicest fit for the hand. and since both of these pots generally retail for more than $200, you really need to just love the way the look on your burner!

my emphasis on the handle may seem peculiar, but when hefting a heavy 8-10 cup pot of hot, steaming coffee, you may find it more important than you at first thought!


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