Bests & Worsts Reviews from Amazon

I used to be a full time barista. When it comes to coffee, I only drink Americano, 2 shots of espresso from my beloved Rancilio Silvia with hot water. Siliva performs flawlessly and it always produces steady quality of coffee cup after cup. However, cleaning up is another story. It takes about 3 minutes for the machine to start up. After making the shots, it's another 3 to 5 minutes cleaning it up. A scheduled deep cleaning require soaking parts overnight. I had also used Bodum french press when they were still quite pricey and must had gone through at least three of them because chipped or shattered glass. It's well made but the stainless steel mesh eventually frayed around the edge and often pricked holes on my finger tips during cleaning. And another one had the mesh assembly completely seized on the plunging rod which saved my finger tips from been pricked since I could't take it apart and clean it any more! When I thought I'm pretty much done with French press, I saw this stainless steel French press and couldn't resist its good look and decent price. It surely doesn't disappoint me. It's well made in a very elegant and attractive shape. The double-wall design means no more bunt fingers (Please note that even though double-wall has great heat retention and means the coffee doesn't get cold quickly. It's a French press and after 4 minutes of brewing, you need to pour all the coffee out. Don't let the coffee sits in the press for a long time to avoid impure taste). I think the seller should sell a matching thermal carafe for people to pour pressed coffee in so they can take their time to enjoy the coffee. The stainless steel press cleans up really easy and no more shattered glass! As for the frayed stainless mesh, I have not used it long enough to find out yet. However, the construction of the mesh seems to be very well and the edge is folded in nicely as well. I don't think it will fray easily. Plus, it comes with a second set of mesh in case the first one wears out and starts fraying. It's very thoughtful of the manufacturer. Another neat feature is it comes with double mesh and effectively take out unwanted "muddy" layer at the bottom of your cup, a common issue with French press. When I saw the design, I was a bit concerned it may create more pressure while pressing. But not at all.... I believe the factory play with the mesh opening and nail it very well! This French press has attractive look, good built quality, and excellent functionality. Highly recommended!!!