KitchenAid Semi Automatic Espresso Machine with Burr Grinder, 2.5L, Juniper, KES6551JP

This is fantastic. I drink several espressos a day and this beauty can keep up. The espresso gauge works great, the espresso bean grinding is effortless, clean, and so easy. We used another big brand and it was okay, but this machine makes wonderful espresso, with multiple temperature controls, distinct features that make it easy and simple to make your favorite espresso drink. The frothing is thick and foamy, the tamper is well made with slight weight (you may want to upgrade to a heavier tamper if you prefer). The espresso is smooth, silky, and yummy. The pressure pulls the flavors and oils through the entire process leaving you enjoying your favorite espresso all the way to the end, with a clean empty cup. Definitely worth it. The machine is metal, the espresso handle is heavy duty, all of the components are well made.

The KitchenAid Espresso Machine is a standout in the world of home espresso makers, offering a perfect blend of performance, design, and ease of use. With its sleek, modern aesthetic, it brings a touch of professional elegance to any kitchen. But it’s not just about looks—this machine delivers excellent espresso shots consistently, thanks to its powerful 15-bar pump and precise temperature control.The portafilter is sturdy, and the adjustable steam wand makes frothing milk a breeze, creating velvety microfoam ideal for lattes and cappuccinos. Additionally, the intuitive interface with clear controls ensures that even espresso beginners can create café-quality drinks without a steep learning curve.Cleaning is simple, with easy-to-remove parts, and the overall build feels premium and durable. Whether you’re a seasoned barista or a casual coffee enthusiast, the KitchenAid Espresso Machine delivers a delightful espresso experience, combining both style and substance in one impressive package.

I was so excited to use this when I got it. All was working great but as I leave the machine sitting there through the day to night, puddle of water would be sitting on my counter. It seems that water is leaking out from the sides and under the machine for the 2 mornings since I got this machine (checked that water tank was sitting in properly and was good and drip tray not over flowed). Total junk and will be returning for refund.

Lots of good similarly priced machines in this category but I went with this one mainly due to the counter footprint and stainless construction. I have a small kitchen and other more popular models I looked at were just too large. It's still a big machine but leaves me with some counter space to work with.I upgraded from a Delonghi ECP and the quality improvement is a world of difference going from ESE pods to fresh grounds. The frother is also significantly better and easily the best I've used. Setup instructions are a bit lacking so I watched a few videos for setup and was able to grind, brew and froth a drink fairly quickly.I really like how quiet the grinder is, the automatic configuration for settings and brewing, and how the water pitcher can be removed horizontally so the machine can be placed under a cabinet.I haven't had any issues with static while grinding as I'd seen in another review. I've been using the single-wall double basket with mid roast beans at about 75% of the finest grind setting and have been pulling shots with good crema. I saw a review about the grinder not going fine enough and would say that's a questionable claim. Retention seems to be quite low as well.My only complaints are about the accessories and drip tray. The portafilter is mainly plastic with plastic spouts which really detract from the overall quality and marketing about the build being fully stainless. One of my reasons for upgrading was to reduce plastic in the brewing process so that's pretty disappointing. A bottomless portafilter or one with stainless spouts would've been much better. The portafilter has a nice weight to it and seems solidly built but the plastic can't be removed. I would've also liked to see a puck screen and dosing funnel included as they're practically a necessity. The tamper is half plastic but works for now.The drip tray seems to accumulate a lot of water from the internal functioning. I've noticed it while the machine warms up or switches to steam mode. So expect to empty it frequently.Those things aside, it's a great machine so far and really makes an excellent espresso. Most of the accessories can be upgraded but it would've been nice if they included better ones. It also looks good next to my other KitchenAid appliances which are workhorses in my kitchen. I'm hoping this machine is as solidly built and will hold up to the same level of quality over time.

This is my first serious espresso machine - I've been using an old on the stove "machina". and a Braun drip coffee maker for many years . The Kitchen aid semi looks gorgeous on the counter I favor the juniper color (one star) it is easy to use (2 stars) Grinds beautifully and quietly (3 stars ) Foams the milk like a charm (4 stars) and brews a great cup of espresso (5 stars) It holds 2.5 liters of water so it's ready when you are and holds about half a pound of beans but can easily be switched for a new type ( decaf etc.) All in all, its changed my "coffee game" I am NOT a barista, but this makes me feel like one !

Very nice espresso machine. Ive had mine for a year and, as a coffee fiend, couldnt be more satisfied with it. Does it grind beans as fast as a $3,000 machine? Not even close. Does it steam milk as efficiently as a $3,000 machine? Not even remotely but its $500 man. If you’re not busting out 75 lattes an hour for customers at a coffee shop, this will be the perfect coffee machine for your home. And it looks fantastic. Very sleek design with a heavy duty portafilter.