Coffee World Corner
By: Alicia Walters Revised by: Mark Cambell Last updated: Feb 3, 2024
Smeg’s coffee machine transports you back to a bygone era, but the appliance’s modern updates ensure convenience and reliability alongside vintage style. Constructed from top-quality materials and components, this appliance offers a classic-meets-modern coffee drip experience with several advantages compared to basic coffee drip makers.
Design - Aesthetic Excellence
The fully chrome-plated metal body and brass details are constructed for longevity. Stainless steel and brass were chosen for their vintage looks and because they easily withstand wear and heat from repeated use without damage.
Durability - Standing the Test of Time
In durability testing, the machine showed no signs of damage or wear after stress tests replicating 10 years of typical use - including repetitive openings and fillings of the carafe and drip extraction of coffee grounds through the filter basket. Despite the tests, all functions continued to perform perfectly.
Ease of Use - Simplicity with Control
The Smeg Retro Style allows for simple, one-handed operation of ON/OFF and pulse functions. The 1-4 cup volume selector cups precisely measures the right amount. The permanent filter sits securely in the basket. Measurements on the borosilicate glass carafe are accurate to the ounce for consistency.
Coffee Quality - Balanced Flavor Every Time
Thanks to precise heat control, water is extracted evenly through the grounds for a balanced blend of rich flavor profiles free from bitterness - an advantage that justifies the appliance’s higher cost of this Smeg Coffee Maker compared to basic drip makers.
Retro Refinement for Modern Times
This appliance blends mid-century inspiration with modern conveniences for a reliable, convenient coffee drip brewing experience alongside stunning vintage aesthetics. The durable construction, precise heating technology, and intuitive design of the Smeg Coffee Maker are suited for years of faithful service.
Pros:
- The coffee maker has a large capacity, 10-cup carafe.
- Its reusable filter eliminates the need for disposable paper filters.
- Has a keep-warm function for a long time.
- Easy to operate, with a clear LCD screen.
Cons:
Relatively expensive compared to other drip filter coffee makers on the market.
Has a large size.
The retro design might not suit all kitchen decors.
A Bonus Recipe
Ingredients:
3/4 c Ground Coffee
2 2/3c Water
Ground Cardamom
1/2 c Sweetened Condensed Milk
Preparation
Using amounts specified, brew coffee in a drip-style coffee maker or percolator. Pour into 4cups. To each serving, add a dash of ground cardamom and about 2 tablespoons of the condensed milk; stir to blend.