Though design is important, little rituals can completely change the way you experience your kitchen. That's why Kate McKinnon starts her mornings with an espresso. She always makes it in her Bialetti Moka Express Stovetop Espresso Maker.
The comedian shared her advice on the best moka pot with The Strategist. She explained: 'This is a small stovetop espresso machine that was introduced to me by my best friend, Alexandra Carillo-Vaccino, who is obsessed with Italian things and sort of homespun, natural ways of doing things. When I use it, I feel like I am using a camping stove or something. It’s like I’m in the 1940s and only making what I need and doing it in a way that takes a lot of time and effort. So I really cherish the little splash of espresso that comes out. It’s actually more than a little splash; it’s probably two shots of espresso. But there’s something about the tactile nature of it: just water, fire, and coffee beans ground to a fine powder, and then, a minute later, there you are.'
Kate McKinnon isn't the only person who can't live without the traditional espresso maker. Our resident coffee expert, Lydia Hayman, tested dozens of moka pots to determine which was best, and the Bialetti Moka Express Stovetop Espresso came out as the overall winner. Hayman writes: 'This coffee maker isn’t just a classic – it’s practically its own category. The signature design, with the octagonal base, funnel strainer, angular pitcher, and hinged lid, set the standard for all moka pots that followed.' She continues, 'Given its reputation and performance, you might expect it to come with a hefty price tag, yet, it remains one of the most affordable options on the market. Outstanding value for such a well-crafted product.'
The functionality of this piece is unparalleled and so is the look. Hayman writes: 'This is the number one in so many ways: it's the first moka pot design, made by the first moka pot makers, and it's the best in all moka pot buying guides. However, it won't work on induction stoves.'
If you have an induction stove, want to make more espresso, or prefer an electric espresso maker, you might want a different Moka Pot. Here are our recommendations from the experts.
All you have to do is push a button and, in three minutes, this will make delicious moka pot coffee. You don't need a stove or any instructions, but you might want to enhance the flavors.
Inspired by organic textures, the Grosche comes in four different enameled finishes with a comfortable wood-style handle. The small filter basket means that it brews weaker coffee.
Crafted from stainless steel, instead of aluminium, this moka pot works on both gas and induction stoves. It's one of the quickest to brew coffee, but it doesn't have the iconic, traditional moka pot design.
Kate McKinnon swears by her Bialetti because it makes her life more seamless and enjoyable. Investing in the items that make you feel this way, are always a good choice for the kitchen.
