Santa Fe Quesadilla Maker
Average Customer Review:
Kitchen
list price: $34.00 -- our price: $18.88
(price subject to change: see help)
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Editorial Review

For a quick and easy meal, this festive red machine fires up quesadillas filled with grilled veggies, barbecued chicken, or just plain old cheese in under five minutes. The cooking plates fit tortillas that are up to 12 inches in diameter and divide your quesadilla into six manageable sections during pressing. A power light illuminates when the unit is plugged in and a ready light lets you know when your quesadilla is done. The metal cooking plates are coated with nonstick Teflon so quesadillas lift easily out of the maker and cleanup is even quicker than cooking time. The maker also has a built-in drip tray that catches stray bits of melted cheese and filling ingredients. The quesadilla maker's handle stays cool to the touch for safe handling, and the whole unit locks together for compact, upright storage. The Santa Fe quesadilla maker comes with its own recipe book and is covered by a one-year limited manufacturer's warranty. --Cristina Vaamonde ... Read more

Features

• Includes recipes; 1-year limited warranty
• Cooks quesadillas in 4 to 5 minutes
• Fits tortillas up to 12 inches in diameter
• Nonstick cooking plates wipe clean; built-in drip tray
• Power and ready light; upright storage

Reviews (97)

I really do enjoy my quesadilla maker
Since I found it marked down at 10 percent at a local drugstore. I have been having a blast making these quesadillas with this. I have made them before in the past using various other gadgets but found this to be the ideal way to make them. Before I'd get them on my grill griddle the fillings would fall out. same withmy george foreman grill. This happens to be the easiest way and most fun way to make those. So far I have made plain cheese ones and Pizza quesadillas. I just love this and I know most will too.

Perfect Quesadillas! Love it!
This is a terrific appliance!7 minute Quesadillas!I sprayed a little Pam, plugged in this machine, put some Perdue shortcuts chicken in my mini chopper, put the chicken and pre shredded Mexican cheese on a tortilla, put a tortilla on the top, put it in this machine and closed the top.While it was cooking I put some sour cream and salsa on a dish and 5 minutes later I had delicious quesadillas!Nothing stuck to the nonstick finish, just wipe it with a wet paper towel (after it cools) and you're done.Nothing oozed out, no drips at all, and if you over fill and it oozes there is a drip tray for the front and a built in drip area around the rim.It is much better than I expected.I bought it at Bed, Bath and Beyond and in addition to the manual/recipe book it also came with a cookbook, I can't wait to try more recipes. And, you can store it upright so it saves cabinet space.It will pay for itself in 2 quesadillas, plus you can enjoy them at home.Highly recommended!

A nightmare to clean
I was so excited when I first got the quesadilla maker, but it was a different story after I used it...The cheese simply dripped all around the quesadilla maker, not only onto my countertop, which made a real mess, but mostly between the bottom heating plate and the plastic base of the appliance.It literally takes me half an hour to clean it up every time, and that's because I give up (you simply can't get the cheese out of this narrow space, since the heating plate doesn't come out).I tried it several times, placing aluminum foil between the countertop and the appliance to make cleaning easier, but there's nothing to be done about cleaning the quesadilla maker itself.So I finally gave up and made quesadillas with my good old pan, it was a breeze - to make them and to clean up!And the quesadillas are just as good.If I were you, I wouldn't get this product.It looks cool, but that's about it. ... Read more

Asin: B00006BSX0
Subjects:  1. Small Appliances    2. Electrics    3. Specialty Appliances    4. Gifts    5. Wedding Gifts    6. Kitchen    7. Anniversary   

Santa Fe WG1TBR Buffet
Average Customer Review:
Kitchen

US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France

Editorial Review

For breakfast, lunch, dinner, and parties, this countertop cook-and-serve appliance makes meal preparation quick and fun. It's quite versatile--the 10-by-9-inch ribbed grill can be used for grilling fajita and taco fillings, burgers, sausages, steaks, and shrimp. The 9-inch round heating plate is ideal for omelets, tortillas, and pancakes (done simultaneously while the bacon's grilling, of course). And when the tortillas are ready, a stainless-steel pan with a glass lid fits onto the heating plate to keep them warm. (Or use the pan to keep chili warm while burgers are grilling.) The entire cooking surface--grill and plate--is nonstick. Cleanup is easy: The grill lifts out of its gleaming plastic stand for washing, and the pan and lid are dishwasher-safe. The power probe has four heat settings for precise cooking. Included are small plastic tongs and a plastic taco-filling rack. The entire unit measures 23 inches long and 12-1/2 inches wide and carries a one-year warranty against defects. --Fred Brack ... Read more

Features

• 23 by 12-1/2 inches, with 10-by-9-inch ribbed grill, 9-inch round heating plate
• Perfect for cooking complete meals on the countertop
• Great for parties: tacos, fajitas, chili burgers, sausages with sauteed onions
• Nonstick cooking surface; adjustable temperature; grease drain
• Dishwasher-safe lid, tortilla pan, and tortilla-filling rack

Reviews (5)

So many uses...
I got the Santa Fe Quesadilla maker and love it. When I saw this, I thought that it would be a great addition to my kitchen. It is! I like fajitas and this is great for that, but it also works as a buffet for parties, keeping foods warm during a meal, or you can even eat off of it when you're having a cozy dinner for 2. The uses for this are endless.

Nice grill/griddle for the money
I've had this appliance for several months now. I bought it so that I could have a grill pan to cook with (I didn't want to have to buy a cast iron grill pan)I like how it cooks, and it has a nice drain hole on the end to drain excess grease, and I also like that it has both a flat and a grill surface, and that you don't have to flip it over. the drawbacks are that I can't put it in the dishwasher because it's rather large, and it's also very slow in heating up--but cools very quickly if you accidently turn it off. Seeing as how it's alluminum, I don't see why it takes so long to heat up. All in all though, I still really like it and I use it fairly often.

Asian Fondue, Too
Duplicating the popular SHABU SHABU menu was easy with this appliance. Vegetables are cooked in the broth boiling on one side; meats/vegetables are cooked on the Griddle. This item combines the features necessary for a combination Shabu Shabu dinner with a Mongolia Barbeque option. Salton's marketing department needs to expand the horizon for this product -- beyond the hispanic and into the Pacific Rim. ... Read more

Asin: B00005B6YH
Subjects:  1. Small Appliances    2. Electrics    3. Indoor Grills    4. Specialty Appliances    5. Gifts    6. Cooking    7. Kitchen   

L.R.I. PRK Photon II Micro Red Light Keychain
Average Customer Review:
Tools & Hardware
list price: $16.00 -- our price: $11.99
(price subject to change: see help)
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Features

• Red preserves night vision
• Dual switch model
• Bright as a 2-AA flashlight
• Long life replaceable battery
• Unbreakable bulb

Reviews (1)

Makes my life easier
I have extremely poor vision that gets worse in darkened conditions.I found that this little LED "flashlight" is powerful and extremely useful.It always stays within reach on my key chain, and I use it every night.
The Lithium batteries lasted me for a more than a year of hard daily use before needing to be replaced.It is very useful in when trying to see a menu in dimly lit restaurants, but remember to cover about 75% of the LED, as to not disturb others.People like myself who absolutely need to see in these settings (i.e. diabetics who need to check glucose levels at meal time) it becomes indispensable. The light is extremely useful when I navigate for my wife in the car.The light does not disturb her like the dome light.

I purchased one for a friend who is a pilot, since the red light does not effect his night vision; he now keeps an extra one on hand, just in case.
Other uses:
The red light emitted from the LED, can not be seen by deer, which makes useful for hunters in their stands while waiting for light or as backup for a flashlight.

Auto, boat, camping / hiking emergency or survival kit.The LED can be seen for some distance in the dark if looking directly at the source.If you point the light downward, the illumination is not noticeable.

The only con is that the red light does not give much contrast.I have a green light that provides more contrast, but it's hard on the eyes. ... Read more

Asin: B00006I4Y3
Sales Rank: 10471
Subjects:  1. Flashlights    2. (Flash Lights)   

KitchenAid KSM150PSER Artisan Series 5-Quart Mixer, Empire Red
Average Customer Review:
Kitchen
list price: $289.99 -- our price: $237.99
(price subject to change: see help)
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Editorial Review

KitchenAid's Artisan stand mixer is a substantial piece of equipment: 325 watts of mixing power make child's play of creaming butter, kneading dough, and whipping cream. The kid in you will appreciate how quick and easy it is to mix up a batch of cookie dough. This model comes with three attachments: a flat beater for making batter, meat loaf, and all textures in-between; a wire whip for egg whites, mayonnaise, and more air-infused creations; and a hook for mixing and kneading yeast doughs. All three are solidly constructed and easily secured to the beater shaft with a simple twist. This model also includes a pouring shield for guiding ingredients to their proper destination, and the bowl itself locks tight to the base. Standing about 15 inches high, jutting out a foot, and weighing more than a grown woman's bowling ball, this stand mixer isn't the sort of appliance you'll wipe down and put away. Better to find a square foot of free counter space for easy access; besides, this machine is as pretty as it is rugged--you'll want to show it off. --Betsy Danheim

From the Manufacturer

The Artisan mixer's strong 325-watt motor delivers the power to handle the heaviest mixtures, and mix large batches easily.

The 5-quart polished stainless steel bowl with ergonomic handle is big enough to handle large batches of heavy mixtures. Its ergonomically designed handle is contoured to fit the hand and makes lifting the bowl more comfortable.

Unique Mixing Action

The beater spins clockwise as the shaft spins counter clockwise; moving the beater to 67 different points around the bowl. This unique mixing action creates a thorough blend of ingredients and eliminates the need to rotate the bowl.

Multiple Speeds

10 speeds allow the user to select the right speed for the mixing job; from very high to very slow stir. It's easy to select the precise speed needed for a perfect mix.

Versatile Accessories

The flat beater, dough hook, and the professional wire whip add to the versatility of the mixer. The flat beater is the ideal accessory for mixing normal to heavy batters. From cake mixes to firm cookie dough, the flat beater mixes quickly and thoroughly.

The dough hook mixes and kneads yeast dough, saving both time and the effort of hand-kneading. The wire whip incorporates the maximum amount of air in whipped mixtures for fluffier whipped cream and angel food cakes.

All attachments are solidly constructed, and attach easily to the stand mixer.

Easy Clean Up

The pouring shield fits around the top of the bowl and prevents ingredient splash-out. The chute makes it convenient and easy to add ingredients.

The tilt-back mixer head allows for easy access to bowl and beaters. A lock lever holds the mixer head securely in place and the bowl fastens tightly to the base.

Optional Attachments

Optional attachments (sold separately) complete the package to make cooking a pleasure. From citrus juicer to sausage stuffer, KitchenAid stand mixers can handle just about any job in the kitchen.

... Read more

Features

• Measures 14 by 8-2/3 inches by 14 inches; 1-year warranty
• 325-watt mixer with 10 speeds; 5-quart stainless steel bowl
• Tilt-back head for easy access to mixture
• 2-piece pouring shield with large chute for adding ingredients
• Includes flat beater, dough hook, and wire whip

Reviews (172)

Buy one for your significant other!!!
I bought one as an X-mas gift for an ex-girlfriend that I have a rocky friendship with and now she cooks up good stuff for me all the time!It makes hanging out with her a lot more enjoyable, and she freaked out about the color and it gave her an excuse to deocrate her whole kitchen pink and white.If you gave one of these to your current ladyfriend I bet that you would reap the benefits multiple times a day for a very long time.

It was a very very high quality product and I will look to the KitchenAid brand first whenever I have to buy kitchenwares/appliances in the future.Great color selections, great quality, very good power.

Would highly recommend.

Great essential for the baker in your life....you!
I love the mixer's power, capacity and ease of use. It makes even garlic mashed potatoes heavenly. I selected a black model to match my Viking kitchens without realizing the color would need more frequent cleaning. If you use this mixer every day buy a cover or another color to save time.

Fantastic!
I got this mixer about a month ago. I've wanted one for years, but always talked myself out of it (too expensive, too big, etc.) After finding a great deal here on Amazon, I finally caved in and let me say, I'm glad I did. I love this mixer! I was worried I wouldn't use it very much, since I already have a very nice bread machine (a "Zo"). I find that I'm using it all the time though. It really is like having an extra pair of hands in the kitchen. Cookie dough is so much easier. I'm also making bread with it constantly. It's just so simple to throw the ingredients in the mixer and let it do all the kneading. I've been making fresh bread and bagels every week and it's been no hassle. It handles the dough very well and stays put. It's a big heavy machine. The only problem I was having with it was I was finding it very difficult to remove the bowl to clean it after I was done mixing something. My husband suggested rubbing some vaseline on the bottom edge and that has solved the problem completely. Now I can pop the bowl off with one hand. Anyway, if you've been wanting one of these and if you like to bake at all, do youself a favor and get one. You will be amazed at how much easier it will make your life. I only wish I'd gotten one years ago! ... Read more

Asin: B00005UP2P
Subjects:  1. (Standmixers)    2. (Kitchen Aid)    3. Small Appliances    4. Electrics    5. Stand Mixers   

Waring PBB204 Professional Bar Blender, Chili Red
Average Customer Review:
Kitchen
list price: $165.00 -- our price: $129.99
(price subject to change: see help)
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Editorial Review

Bandleader and inventor Fred Waring introduced the first blender in 1936, and this model pays tribute to that early version in its retro styling. A tall, old-fashioned-looking blender in chili red, it will crush ice and blend frozen fruit beautifully in a few seconds. This blender feels sturdy: the lid, with a cap that doubles as a 1-ounce measurer, fits securely, and the pitcher, made of thick, ridged glass, won't wobble. Many chefs prefer a blender rather than a food processor for soups and creamy sauces--the blades of a good blender whirl more quickly than those of a food processor and will refine a thin liquid such as cream of tomato soup to an incomparably silky texture. This blender is definitely up to that task. The fixed, self-cleaning stainless-steel blades on the base of the pitcher mean the lid is the only separate part to wash. --Maria Dolan ... Read more

Features

• Measures 16-1/2 by 8 by 7 inches; 1-year warranty, 5-year motor warranty
• 40-ounce, ridged glass jar holds 5 cups of mixed drinks, soup, or sauce
• Powerful 390-watt motor crushes ice fast
• High and low speeds cover mixing, chopping, and pureeing
• Heavy-duty base; dishwasher-safe glass jar and lid

Reviews (39)

Second to None
I've had this blender for over a year now, and wow!It's the best, period.It blends anything; no matter how frozen.It has also proven it self to be the most durable blender I've ever owned.I am a bodybuilder, so I use it to blend protein shakes 2-3 times a day.

Like people have said...it is very load.However, that's not an issue to me.Also, it's easier to clean rigth away.Simply fill with some water, add a drop of soap, blend, rise, and you're done.

A top name in blenders, but has some flaws
With Waring on the product you know you're buying quality.This is a well built blender with a motor that feels like it could start your car.It is easy to clean and will crush/blend/pulverize anything you throw at it.
The downside, you cant see what you blending or how well mixed it is.The metal carafe is very durable, but I wish it had a pyrex or glass one instead.
The lack of more speed settings is also a bit irksome... but pulsing can obtain the same results.

Too small
This is a handsome product and is undoubtedly a good blender, but it should be noted that it is considerably smaller than most blenders. It is described as having a 32 oz container, but it will only blend 24 oz, about half of a standard KitchenAid. A more accurate representation of its functional capacity would have kept me from mistakenly ordering it. ... Read more

Asin: B00004S8F4
Subjects:  1. (Osterizers)    2. Barware    3. (Bar Ware)    4. Bartending    5. Small Appliances    6. Electrics    7. Blenders   

Kitchenaid Poly Board Red Corners 8 Inch x 11 Inch
Average Customer Review:
Kitchen (01 May, 2004)
list price: $15.99 -- our price: $15.99
(price subject to change: see help)
US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France

Editorial Review

For daily food preparation, this durable polypropelene cutting board has a medium-sized 8-by-10-inch cutting space and holds up to repeated use. The board is double-sided so you can slice meats and vegetables on separate surfaces to avoid contamination. Non-slip santoprene handles in a contrasting color prevent the board from slipping off the counter during slicing and also keep the board from sliding out of wet hands when transporting chopped ingredients from countertop to stove. The tough plastic cutting surface is preferable among germ-conscious chefs as it is dishwasher-safe and, therefore, easier to clean and sanitize. Knife gurus will also appreciate the polypropelene surface for maintaining knives and resulting in fewer trips to the professional sharpener. KitchenAid offers a one-year hassle-free replacement warranty plus a limited lifetime warranty on this cutting board.--Cristina Vaamonde ... Read more

Features

• 1-year hassle-free replacement plus lifetime warranty
• Chop & Serve
• Double-sided usage
• Textured nonslip grip handles for convenient serving
• Duarable high-density polypropylene wil not dull knives

Reviews (6)

Great little cutting board for our red kitchen
I bought this cutting board for my wife because she is decorating our kitchen in red. We've been keeping it out on the counter as a trivet beneath a red bowl because the size is small enough to be unobtrusive and if you do notice it, the looks aren't bad either. As far as cutting boards go, I like the small size - it's perfect for cutting an onion, vegetables, that sort of thing. The rubber sides give it a nice grip on the counter and it's easy to pick up and push the food off the board into the pan or bowl. I also like that I can drop it in the dishwasher after cutting raw meat and other such things. For my needs, it's a perfect cutting board because the small size makes it really convenient to grab and use. Kitchenaid has done a nice job with coordinating all of their new stainless steel and color utensils, boards, and gadgets.

The glue was a total pain (what a dumb choice) but many thanks to the other reviews that suggested vegetable oil. That worked just fine to remove all the glue.

and it's off! (the glue, that is)
a. The board is smaller than anticipated--it measures exactly 8" x 10" at the longest point.
b. Previous reviewer is totally right--the nightmare glue comes off with soaking in a shallow pan of veggie oil for an hour + (I left it & went shopping), then can be scraped off with a regular spreading knife. Although "track marks" will still be visible.
It seems that for the aggravation of de-gluing it, something just as good would be available in stores for a comparable price.

Very Good Cutting Board
I have enjoyed using this board and have found it very strong and resistant to scratch marks and cuts. It is heavy and solid in construction yet light to use in that it is easy to grab ahold of with the openings provided and also light to carry and move. Also, it resists heat, which is good in a synthetic plastic cutting board. A guest put it on the stove right next to a burner that had been on high and had just been turned off, and surprisingly the cutting board did not even retain much heat, let alone begin to melt or scorch and discolor. Interestingly, the green color in this board is $11.99 while the exact same board in red or black is $14.99--go figure. So if you don't especially care about the color or matching other colors in your kitchen, save yourself $3.00 with the green. I also bought the smaller cutting board with this one--the 8 and 1/2 by 10 and 1/2 inch board that looks more like a paddle. I have not liked that one as much, largely because its size and shape are awkward and not a great deal fits on there well for cutting. It would make a good cheese board for use as an appetizer or after dinner display. It is also good for cutting small, single items like some cheese or an apple, but it is too awkward for cutting anything much larger. ... Read more

Asin: B0000CDBW5
Subjects:  1. Cutting Boards   

Panasonic MC-V4850 Canister Vacuum, Red
Average Customer Review:
Kitchen
list price: $119.95 -- our price: $98.99
(price subject to change: see help)
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Editorial Review

A streamlined model, this canister vacuum from Panasonicoffers straightforward cleaning power and smart basic features. The10-1/2-amp vacuum is suitable both for floors and above-floor cleaningtasks. It features bagged dirt collection, with a readily accessiblebag hatch and a washable filter for trapping particulates. The vacuum'sflexible hose attaches to the extension wands and 12-inch floor brushor directly to the tools for alternate cleaning tasks. To accommodate avariety of surfaces, the hose also features adjustable suctionregulation, controlled by a sliding hatch. As an added bonus, the hosecan convert to blower operation if inserted into a blower port in thebase. The floor nozzle stores cleverly on the side of the canister,whether it's resting vertically or horizontally. Just slide it onto asupport notch, and it stays upright by itself. Both power and automaticcord retraction on this model are controlled with large, foot-operablebuttons, while the scaled-down tools store conveniently onboard in asmall compartment. They include a crevice tool, a dusting brush, and anupholstery attachment. Panasonic's handy details include a suctionindicator light, pivoting front wheel, headlight, and carrying handle.The vacuum comes with a 17-foot power cord. --Emily Bedard ... Read more

Features

• 12-inch cleaning path on floor nozzle; unit weighs 11.6 pounds
• 10-1/2-amp canister vacuum with floor nozzle and attachments
• Convenient upright pause stand for floor nozzle
• Optional blower operation
• Onboard tools for dusting, crevices, and upholstery

Reviews (6)

very good buy
Bought vacuum and have been very pleased. Suction is very, very good. Does great job on both floors , carpets. Picks up dog hair well and is retively convient to use. Well worth the price. I would recomend this vacuume to anyone.

Great Vacuum at a great price
You will not be able to find a better vacuum for the price. I had it for the past four years and never had any problems with it. It has a great suction and it rolls around easy. The bags are easy to replacea and are inexpensive.<br /> ***** five stars!<br />

Not a good buy
The vacuum works ok...good suction, and rolls around well. The wand tubes don't stay attached to the hose, no matter how hard you force them in. The attachments are a joke, except for the floor attachment, which is plastic and is easy on floors and furniture. The hose is too short to reach an 8 foot ceiling unless you stand the vacuum on end. The cord retracts well, but could be a few feet longer. Forget about finding bags. Apparenty you throw the vacuum away after you use the two bags it comes with. ... Read more

Asin: B00006JO10
Subjects:  1. Vacuum Cleaners    2. Canister Vacuums    3. Floor Care    4. (Vacs)   

Oneida Red Color Trends 20-Piece Flatware Set, Service for 4
Average Customer Review:
Kitchen
list price: $40.00
US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France

Editorial Review

Lively and sturdy, the Oneida Color Trends flatware is a great addition to your picnic basket, cabin kitchen, or patio table. A cheerful red, the handles are crafted from thermoplastic with rounded edges that feel good in the hand. The flatware's full-tang construction--the steel piece runs all the way down the handle--makes them festive without flimsiness. Oneida uses stainless steel for the working ends and polishes it to a mirror finish. This 20-piece set includes 4 place settings, each with an 8-3/4-inch place knife with serrated edge, 7-3/4-inch place fork, 7-3/4-inch place spoon, 6-1/2-inch salad fork, and 6-1/4-inch teaspoon. For handy clean-up, the set is safe for the dishwasher.. --Emily Bedard

What’s in the Box
4 place settings. Each place setting consists of: 8-3/4-inch place knife; 7-3/4-inch place fork; 7-3/4-inch place spoon; 6-1/2-inch salad fork; 6-1/4-inch teaspoon. 20 pieces total. ... Read more

Features

• Durable flatware in a cheerful red color
• Thermoplastic handles and stainless-steel ends
• Full-tang construction for strength
• Includes 4 5-piece place settings
• Dishwasher-safe

Reviews (1)

Best Ever Red
I ordered a set of this wonderful silverware on e-bay and have ever since been looking for more.It is a beautiful red color, just what I wanted to go in my country kitchen.It does really well in the dishwasher too. I would recommend these red handle beauties to anyone who is looking for this type product.My daughter has previously purchased the set and of course I wanted some too.We both enjoy this silverware so much.And of course it is available in other colors too. ... Read more

Asin: B00008QUI0
Subjects:  1. Flatware    2. (Flat Ware)    3. (Silverware)    4. (Silver Ware)    5. Sets    6. Placesettings    7. (Place Settings)   

SiliconeZone Heart Muffin Pan, Red
Average Customer Review:
Kitchen
list price: $15.00 -- our price: $14.99
(price subject to change: see help)
US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France

Editorial Review

Gone are the days of clattering baking pans when the household baker is at work. This professional-level silicone bakeware is quiet and so flexible that it folds up for storage in tight spaces. Made of FDA-approved food-grade silicone, this large (10-1/2-by-6-3/8-by-1-1/3-inch), six-cup muffin pan is oven-safe to 428 degrees Fahrenheit and provides even heat distribution so your sweet-looking bran muffins comes out moist and delicious. The pan is nonporous and won’t retain the odors or flavors of your food after cooking. This bakeware also has a high-gloss nonstick finish on its interior for easier removal of your baked goods and faster cleanup. And, if that’s not enough, this cake mold cools down faster than traditional bakeware and is also microwave-, freezer- (down to 58 degrees Fahrenheit), and dishwasher-safe. SilconeZone’s revolutionary bakeware is covered by a lifetime guarantee. --Cristina Vaamonde ... Read more

Features

• Flexible, space-saving construction; lifetime guarantee
• 6-cup heart-shaped muffin pan made of FDA-approved food-grade silicone
• Oven-safe to 428 degrees F; cooks and browns evenly; quick and even cooling
• Microwave-, freezer-, and dishwasher-safe
• High-gloss nonstick finish releases foods easily, won't retain food odors

Reviews (3)

Wayyyy cute!
While I agree that the pan isn't very non-stick, after some testing, I pressed the regular round paper liners into the heart shape.I didn't overfill the muffin cups, and they were TOTALLY cute!They were a big hit at both the preschool and the office.They're a little smaller, so a regular 24 cupcake recipe makes more like 32 extremely cute cupcakes.I have 2 pans, am thinking of getting 2 more to speed the baking.

NOT Non-stick
The very first set of muffins I made in this pan stuck horribly.I ended up with half of each muffin stuck in the pan.For cookware that claims to have a non-stick surface this was less than impressive.I received this pan as a Christmas gift (and it took over six weeks to finally arrive) and I am highly disappointed

Gorgeous, cute, but...
The red is rich and gorgeous, the muffins produced are cute as anything.But they are pretty small, larger than mini-muffins, but smaller than any other muffin I have ever seen.Also, this silicone seems thinner than other pans I have and just a bit less "non-stick."It makes for easier folding, but also distorts the muffins a bit when you remove them from the pan.My grandkids LOVE the little muffins. ... Read more

Asin: B00009A9XB
Subjects:  1. Cake Pans    2. Baking    3. Bakeware    4. (Bake Ware)    5. Muffin Pans    6. Cupcakes    7. Kitchen   

Kitchen Aid 6-Piece Gadget Set, Red
Average Customer Review:
Kitchen (30 June, 2002)
list price: $65.99 -- our price: $39.99
(price subject to change: see help)
US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France

Editorial Review

The six heavy, sturdy tools in this set are as reliablyfunctional as they are strikingly beautiful. The set comprises an11-1/4-inch grater perfect for creating a shower of cheese over pastaor citrus zest for baking; a 9-inch ice-cream scoop that forms ballsout of the hardest frozen confection; a powerful, 8-1/2-inch canopener; a 10-inch, 12-wire utility whisk for beating eggs and blendingsauces; a 7-1/2-inch peeler with a sharp, 2-1/4-inch swiveling blade;and a 12-1/2-inch spatula with a long, 5-1/4-inch, black, silicone headthat's perfect for quickly scraping bowls and folding ingredients. Thespatula is heat-resistant to 500 degrees F, so it won't melt even if ittouches a burner.

The tools and gadgets have stylish enamel-like handles withpolished 18/8 stainless-steel accents, and include hanging holes.They're dishwasher-safe. KitchenAid says the first year of theirlifetime warranty against defects is hassle-free, with replacementsshipped at no cost and without question if defects are detected.--Fred Brack ... Read more

Features

• Lifetime warranty against defects, with 1-year no-hassle, no-cost replacement
• Comprised of a grater, ice cream scoop, can opener, whisk, spatula, peeler
• Heavy, sturdy, dishwasher-safe tools and gadgets with hanging holes
• Stylish enamel-like handles with polished 18/8 stainless-steel accents
• 12-1/2-inch spatula features silicone head heat-resistant to 500 degrees F

Reviews (14)

Large, Heavy Duty
I'm a big guy and I like big and heavy duty kitchen gadgets.These didn't disappoint in that regard.

The can opener appears well built.However, the drive wheel has very shallow teeth that slip on the can even though the sharp cutting wheel requires little drive effort to penetrate the metal can top.Squeezing the handles with a very firm grip mostly overcomes this problem with only a little residual slippage, but that eliminates the expected advantage of a large can opener with a lot of leverage.The opened can lid seems much sharper than those produced from my inexpensive and functional Swing-Away can opener.On the very first can I opened, I brushed a finger tip against the edge of the lid and received a very deep cut.The Swing-Away can opener I had been using apparently produces more of a cut & rolled edge that seems much less dangerous.

The whisk handle is comfortable and it works well.I think I prefer a lighter whisk with a hollow handle and I definitely prefer a completely smooth surface that's easier to clean.The Kitchenaid logo has molded and recessed features that require a little extra cleaning effort.

The peeler works well.The large handle is easy to grip (I have large hands), but it does take up a lot of space in the gadget drawer.The clip on plastic blade cover is a nice touch to keep the blade from banging into other gadgets and nicking them or dulling, but I wonder how many minutes it'll be before I lose the plastic cover.

The spatula is well designed and well built.The silicone rubber is slightly harder than a Rubbermaid commercial spatula I had, but it oozed silicone oil and was discarded.This spatula is soft enough to flex as needed, but probably not so soft that it'll ooze silicone.Again, I'd like a smooth handle that was as easy to clean as possible.Decent marks here, but the molded Kitchenaid logo again requires a little extra effort to clean.

The grater is nice and heavy duty.No complaints.

The ice cream scoop is solid and well built.The surface polish is mirror smooth.However, with hard ice cream, the ice cream spade (sold separately) works better with much less effort.Even with the spade, scooping frozen ice cream is a bit awkward and requires a lot of force.This scoop will require hard ice cream to be microwaved to soften it before it can be scooped.I have an old commercial Hamilton Beach ice cream scoop with the completely hemispherical thin walled stainless scoop and a ratcheting thumb mechanism that drives a band inside the scoop to release the ice cream.It scoops hard ice cream more easily and releases it more easily than the pretty new Kitchenaid ice cream scoop.

Overall, these are large and heavy duty tools that are certainly well made.I don't think durability will be an issue.Some of the tools could have been designed a bit better.A+ for materials and workmanship.A- to C- for the various pieces for ergonomics and functional design.This set is good, but for the price it should be very good.It wasn't quite up to the very high standards I have come to expect from Kitchenaid.

I'd probably be more charitable, but the half inch gash on the end of my left middle finger makes typing this review a bit painful.At least it finally stopped bleeding whenever I flexed my finger.I'll be more careful with the Kitchenaid can opener.

KitchenAid 5-Piece Gadget Set, Blue
I bought the 5-piece set at a JC penneys when i lived in Florida and paied more than $24.99. This set is great and i'm happy with all the tools. The can openner is the best, no more electric ones for me. The handles are confortable to hold and you get a good tight grip with out hurting you hand. The ice cream scoop will not bend like some many i have used before. The peeler & whisk are the best i ever used. The scraper is really made for Kitchenaid Stand mixer bowls and is quite long so you might want to buy a smaller Kitchenaid scraper for regular bowls but this works well. Only tool i did not get was the grader but i have bought it from Kitchaid.com with other cobalt blue gargets this christmas cause they are offering free shipping and 25% off total order with code "Holiday04" until christams.

Kitchenaid tools rock in my kitchen!
For a number of years I had always purchased the cheap kitchen tools, accessories from the local dept. stores.It's true that you get what you pay for.When I received this set (I purchased the one in blue) I was very pleased with the overall quality of each individual item.I would recommend this for anyone that has ever bought those cheap plastic spatulas, the cheap metal cheese graters that are difficult to clean and always end up rusting and those cheap wire whisks that end up rusting also.You will get more than your monies worth out of this set. ... Read more

Asin: B000064169

Koolatron Compact Fridge, Red
Average Customer Review:
Kitchen
list price: $99.99
US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France

Editorial Review

This retro-look compact fridge is so cool you’ll wish you had a full-size one in your kitchen. Perfect for dorm rooms, rec rooms, campers, or tailgate parties, the portable unit measures 11-1/2 by 12 by 17 inches, weighs 16 pounds, and with the included 12-volt power adapter can run off a vehicle cigarette lighter socket as well as a regular outlet. The fridge even comes in handy for carting home ice cream from the grocery store in hot weather and storing heat-sensitive photographic equipment on a road trip. Not only does it chill the equivalent of 21 quarts (twenty 12-ounce cans or four 2-liter bottles) down to 38 degrees F, but it will keep pizza or picnic dishes warm up to 140 degrees F. Ambient air temperature will affect how cold or hot the interior of the unit gets (cools approximately 40-45 degrees F below outside temperature). Foods should not be kept in heater mode for longer than 45 minutes due to potential bacterial growth. The fridge should be placed on a hard surface rather than on carpet or grass, which could block upward airflow from underneath. --Ann Bieri ... Read more

Features

• Retro-looking, lightweight, portable fridge doubles as warming box
• Cools food up to 52-degrees Fahrenheit or warms to 97-degrees Fahrenheit
• 20-liter capacity; fits 20 12-ounce cans or four 2-liter bottles
• 12-volt power adapter for cigarette-lighter socket included
• Measures 11-1/2 by 12 by 17 inches

Reviews (4)

Mine died too!!!
I have had mine for about 4 months and it died this morning.The editorial review says it is perfect for dorm rooms.DO NOT buy this refrigerator if you are going to leave it plugged in 24 hours a day 7 days a week.It cannot take that type of use.Only buy it if you need to refrigerate or heat something temporarily.

It died after 3 months
I bought the product 3 months ago and today it died.I do hope the other poster is incorrect in saying that it only has a 90 day warranty because I believe I received this product 97 days ago.I will follow up once I hear definitively.

Nice Office Fridge
I bought this for my office at work since the main refridgerator seems to be raided by hungry college kids who work there on a part time basis.Anyways I love my little fridge it is quiet and keeps things very cool the warming function also can be really warm as well.We are planning on taking this with us for car trips since it has a car adapter.I do have one small warning the red is a little bit on the pinkish side so if you are guy you might want to think about a different color. ... Read more

Asin: B00006RGMC
Subjects:  1. Small Appliances    2. Electrics    3. Compact Refrigerators    4. Mini Fridges   

Fiestaware Cinnabar 494 7-Inch Covered Butter Dish
Average Customer Review:
Kitchen
list price: $27.00 -- our price: $18.99
(price subject to change: see help)
US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France

Editorial Review

Fiestaware was first introduced in 1936 and remained popular throughout the '40s, '50s, and '60s, prized for its art deco design, colorful glazes, and smart accessories such as creamers, vases, pitchers, and candlesticks. Fiestaware was reissued in 1986 to mark the 50th anniversary of the line and is popular today for the same reasons: bold colors, great styling, à la carte piece selection for a personalized set--and now a 100 percent lead-free glaze for better health. Today's Fiestaware is available in over 10 colors, so you can collect pieces in one color or pursue a mix-and-match effect with pieces of assorted colors. The thin shape of this butter dish fits easily in the built-in butter compartment of an average-size refrigerator, and its smart, streamlined appearance adds retro flair to a casual dining room or kitchen table. --Emily Wolf ... Read more

Features

• Dishwasher and microwave safe
• Great for serving and storing butter
• 7-1/8 by 4-1/4-inch size
• Vitrified china with lead-free glaze
• Complements other Fiestaware pieces for a well-matched set

Reviews (9)

Great butter dish!
First of all, to those fellow purple lovers out there, this is a gorgeous shade of purple!It's the deep blue/red purple, not that new brownish raisin type that is prevalent.That said, this is a wonderful little butter dish.I've had mine for quite some time now and it's taken quite a beating from a toddler and still looks new.The knob on top makes it especially nice and easy to use.The bottom is large and rounded so that the butter doesn't fall off, but it's still small enough to fit in the butter compartment of your fridge.This is a great product and very pleasing to view as well.I mix mine with my Longaberger dishes too and it fits in beautifully.It washes up quite fine in the dishwasher as well (I use the top rack).

Practical as well as pretty
I've wanted a butter dish with a handle on the lid for a long time- somehow I tend to drop and break lids without a handle to grip, thus leaving myself with a collection of butter dish bottoms. I purchased this in tangerine and am really happy with it. Not too cutesy, but colorful and practical. I'm trying to figure out how to justify a few more colors...

Better Butter Dish
Fiestaware ROCKS.A few years back, I started my Fiestaware collection. The butter dish, in turquoise, was a recent addition.I like the vibrant colors available which allow for a cheerful, eclectic mix or a more coordinated theme. It is of the highest quality and very durable in the oven as well.I am going to put glass doors on my cabinets to showcase my Fiestaware because not only is it practical and beautiful, they are individual pieces of art! ... Read more

Asin: B000056I8M
Subjects:  1. Red    2. Serveware    3. (Serve Ware)    4. Serving    5. Butter Dishes    6. Fiestaware    7. (Fiesta Ware)    8. (Fiestawear)    9. (Fiesta Wear)   

KitchenAid 5-Piece Measuring Spoon Set, Red
Average Customer Review:
Kitchen
list price: $7.99 -- our price: $3.99
(price subject to change: see help)
US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France

Editorial Review

Blessed with large, easy-to-read markings, the five measuringspoons in this set make any cook's work easier. They're permanentlysecured by a solid ring, are sturdily made of thick, red plastic, andare dishwasher-safe. The spoons accurately measure 1/4-teaspoon,1/2-teaspoon, 1-teaspoon, 1/2-tablespoon, and 1-tablespoon amounts. Theirhandles are slightly curved, making it easier to obtain levelmeasurements in the proper wrist position. KitchenAid says the firstyear of the spoons' lifetime warranty against defects is hassle-free;the company will ship a replacement at no cost and without question ifa defect is detected. --Fred Brack ... Read more

Features

• Dishwasher-safe
• Five measuring spoons: 1/4, 1/2, and 1 teaspoon and 1/2, 1 tablespoon
• Large, easy-to-read markings
• Made of thick plastic
• Set permanently secured by solid ring

Reviews (8)

This are not the same spoons you can buy for $2.99 at Target
They are much thicker plastic (they are the professional series).
The ones at target and Walmart are the much cheaper Culinary series.

I loved them....
I had metal measuring spoons that bent in the dishwasher so I went out and got new ones. I decided on these because I like kitchenaid, plus I wanted things to match (I already had the measuring cups.). I liked the handles and the easily readable numbers.

great spoons, ...price excessive?
I love Kitchen Aid products and I love red in the kitchen. These are very sturdy, and easy to use. I have Kitchen Aid Stand Mixer(red), and grinder (red), etc, so these coordinate well. The small ones are bulbous and hard to get into tinned square-box spices, but seem okay for many spice bottles and for poured ingredients. If price is important to you, you may get the same Kitchen Aid Measuring Spoon set for only $2.99 at Target stores. ... Read more

Asin: B00005KIBA
Subjects:  1. Measures    2. Measurers    3. (Kitchen Aid)    4. Measuring Spoons   

Cavalier Red Teakettle
Average Customer Review:
Kitchen
list price: $14.99
US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France

Reviews (9)

rusted already
It's supposed to be stainless steel enamel- that's why I got it- but the inside rim of the spout is rusted.I just found out, after having it for about a year.My previous Copco kettle wasn't enameled, and rainbow colored spots formed on the the inside bottom of the kettle.Oh well.

Great bargain
Very inexpensive, and looks great in my red kitchen. It also has a decent whistle, so I can hear it with the stereo on. Be aware that it is a smaller kettle, and may not be great for large families or gatherings.

cute, cheap and convient
I received this tea kettle from my wedding registry over a year ago and its still in great condition. I leave it on my stove top, as it matches my red and black kitchen/dining room decor. Great for making tea or hot chocolate this Christmastime. I think I might get one for my mother-n-law for Christmas. ... Read more

Asin: B000065DO1
Sales Rank: 17347
Subjects:  1. Teakettles    2. (Tea Kettles)    3. Kitchen    4. Gifts   

Le Creuset 7-Piece Spatula Set with Crock, Red
Average Customer Review:
Kitchen
list price: $59.99 -- our price: $59.99
(price subject to change: see help)
US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France

Editorial Review

Le Creuset's brightly colored, virtually indestructiblesilicone spatulas created a buzz when they were first introduced. Nowthis set combines six red ones in a complementary stoneware storagecrock. Not only will these spatulas serve every cooking need, butthey'll add a splash of color to any kitchen. Durable, flexible, andstain-resistant, the spatulas endure incredible temperatures--800degrees F and 425 degrees C--without melting or discoloring. Thespatulas: one tapered, slotted spoon spatula (3-1/2 inches long and2-1/2 inches wide at its base); two solid spoon spatulas (3-1/2 inches by2-5/8 inches and 2-7/8 inches by 2-1/8 inches); and three scrapingspatulas of different widths (2 inches, 1-3/8 inches, and 1 inch). Thehandsome red crock stands 5-7/8 inches high, and its flared mouth is 5inches in diameter, providing plenty of room for tools other than thespatulas. The spatulas' heads slide off their wooden handles to go intoa dishwasher, but hand washing is more convenient. --Fred Brack ... Read more

Features

• Dishwasher-safe heads slide off wooden handles; handwashing more convenient
• Set consists of large, small, and narrow scraping spatulas; large and small spoon spatulas
• Large, slotted-spoon spatula and stoneware storage crock also included
• Virtually indestructible spatulas won't melt or discolor even at 800 degrees F
• Made of durable, stain-resistant, flexible silicone

Reviews (36)

You probably don't need all of these!
I bought this set about three years ago and I simply would not cook without them. I am as enthusiastic as other reviewers who have given this set five stars, except that I only really use two out of the six pieces.

If I had to do it over, I would buy the very attractive pot and three each of the medium sized spoonula and the small spatula. I simply do not use the others. They are gathering dust as we speak.

Now if your cooking is a bit different than mine, you may have different needs, but I cook or bake four or five times a week, and I simply do not use 2/3 of this set. And, it is only the spoonula which gets used in high heat environments.

For room temperatures, I often find more use for a spatula which is a lot stiffer than these silicone plastics.

I recommend you find some way of buying only the pot and six of the medium spoonulas! Even these wear out from small nicks and cuts over time, and you do not want to find yourself without one at hand.

Great Starter Set
I bought this same set at an outlet mall (much better price, but same product).

They are very well built and have stood up to just about anything I can throw at them from heat to various sauces. They have never melted, scorched or stained so far! Even though they have wood handles, there is a protective finish that keeps them from staining. I did place one through the dishwasher (not recommended) and it came out fine too.

They have replaced all of my miscellaneous pieces I have had laying around and now I have an attractive addition to my kitchen as well.

Worth the wait...
I saw this set in the blue on Amazon just before Christmas for the amazing price of $34.99. Knowing how much these normally are I quickly ordered them and was told they were on backorder and would be shipped to me when they were available. For that price, I would wait as long as it took to get them! I finally got them early February and they are worth the wait. I have used them everyday since receiving them and I wonder how I did without them. I wish I'd ordered my mother a set at the same time I ordered my set. ... Read more

Asin: B00005MEEI
Subjects:  1. Cooking Utensils    2. Spatulas    3. Turners    4. (Lecreuset)    5. (Le Cruset)    6. (Le Crueset)   

Le Creuset 2-Quart Heart Casserole, Red
Average Customer Review:
Kitchen
list price: $140.00 -- our price: $99.99
(price subject to change: see help)
US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France

Editorial Review

Le Creuset is famous for coating its heavy, cast-iron cookware with not just one, but two--count 'em, two--layers of enamel baked on at 1,450 degrees F, resulting in gloriously bright colors. This bright-red, heart-shaped casserole adds a note of whimsy to dishes, but its 2-quart capacity, handles, and heavy-duty construction make it practical as well. Both its interior and exterior are enameled--as are the bottoms of all Le Creuset pots and pans--to prevent scratching glass-topped stoves. The enamel surface will not react with any acidic foods and is easy to clean. The weight and nature of cast iron make for even heat distribution. This cookware gives you all the benefits of cast iron without the painstaking care. --Schuyler Ingle ... Read more

Features

• Dishwasher-safe; 101-year warranty
• Can be used in the oven or on the stovetop
• Enameled cast iron efficiently conducts and retains heat
• Heavy, tight-fitting lid; knob on lid is ovenproof to 450 degrees F
• Holds 2 quarts

Reviews (26)

101 Year Warranty says it all!
Not only are Le Creuset products beautiful, they are well designed and extremely durable. How many companies offer a 101 year warranty on cookware???? Le Creuset is the only one I know of to offer such a warranty, which in my opinion demonstrates the quality you receive when purchasing their items.

As for this particular design, it has to be my favorite, whether for special occassions or everyday use. I get so many compliments about my unique cookware.

Trust me, you'll be delighted if you purchase the Heart Casserole!!

Be My Valentine with Whimsy, Beauty, and Function!
I have collected all of Le Creuset's fruit and vegetable shaped cast iron enameled casseroles. In my 40+ years of cooking these casseroles are at the top of my list for beauty and functionality. They are beautiful to display on a table or on a kitchen counter and very practical in cooking delightful casseroles, soups, stews and other wonderful dishes. The color that they can add to a kitchen brightens every vist there. The exterior and interior enamel coating is very durable and easy to clean. I have cooked a multitude of dishes in these casseroles and have found them to be excellent in heat conduction and preventing "hot spots". The wider and lower shaped casseroles are a little better in spreading the heat.

The warranty against defects of 101 years will certainly last beyond my expected needs but it is nice to know that I have the protection since these are not inexpensive purchases.

The comments of guests served from these casseroles is always positive and never fails to bring a smile to my face.

There is a drawback to these whimsical cookers and that is the rim of both the top and bottom of the casseroles. There is no enamel on these rims and they can rust if not dried immediately after hand washing. They are dishwasher safe but I do recommend that you hand wash and dry immediately. I also recommend that you let them sit out for an hour or so to air dry before storing them.

When wet this casserole can be very slippery and the handles on the bottom and top help in preventing dropping them. Be really careful!

Finally, closely inspect your casserole when it arrives. My first garlic casserole had a two inch crack in the enamel. I did not have to contact Le Crueset since Amazon.com immediately sent a replacement to me and had the defective item picked up at my home at no charge. I commend them for standing behind the products they sell.

Great gift for others and yourself.....
I bought this little casserole for my daughter, and I liked it so much I bought one for me.The size is small enough for a casserole for a two-person household like mine, or a rice or bread pudding. Used for storage of leftovers--it is perfect.Besides, it's pretty.Great gift for yourself or others.

The only downside is that cast iron pans with enamel coverings are at risk for chipping.My pot came with little rubber separators that suspand the lid above the pot.My daughter asked me if she should take them off when she baked, and I said yes, but save them because they will protect the sides of your pot.

Another thing I like is that the pot came packed in biodegradable peanuts.Don't know if it was the French manufacturer or the shipping source, but keep up the good work. All shippers should take a hint.There is no need to use the old plastic peanuts. If the corn starch peanuts work with a heavy pan, they will work with anything. ... Read more

Asin: B00004SBIA
Subjects:  1. Baking Dishes    2. Bakeware    3. (Bake Ware)    4. Cookware    5. (Cook Ware)    6. (Lecreuset)    7. (Le Cruset)    8. (Le Crueset)    9. Le Creuset    10. Heart    11. Casserole    12. Cherry Red    13. Red    14. Bakers    15. Casseroles    16. (Caseroles)   

Beautiful enough to bring to the table and durable enough to outlive its 101-year warranty against defects, this heavy, 2-quart casserole is shaped like an apple, perfect for preparing and ceremoniously serving festive dishes. Suitable for the oven or for browning meat and sweating vegetables on gas, electric, induction, or ceramic ranges, and delightful to behold on the countertop when not in use, the casserole is made of cast-iron and clad inside and out in Le Creuset's famous bright enamel, which won't absorb odors or flavors and readily scrubs clean. As cast-iron is unexcelled for heat distribution and retention, the casserole cooks foods evenly and gently without hot spots. The knob on its heavy, tight-fitting lid is ovenproof to 450 degrees F. Handles facilitate carrying, and the casserole is dishwasher-safe. Like all of Le Creuset's renowned cookware and bakeware, it's made in France. ... Read more

Features

• 101-year warranty against defects; dishwasher-safe
• 2-quart casserole for preparing and serving festive dishes
• Suitable for gas, electric, induction, or ceramic ranges
• Made of cast-iron and clad inside and out in bright enamel that won't absorb odors or flavors
• Tight-fitting lid; ovenproof to 450 degrees F

Asin: B00008VE6J
Subjects:  1. Le Creuset    2. Red Apple    3. Casserole    4. 2-Quart    5. Cookware    6. Casseroles    7. (Cook Ware)    8. (Lecreuset)    9. (Le Cruset)    10. (Le Crueset)   

FrancisFrancis! X1 Espresso Machine, Red
Average Customer Review:
Kitchen
list price: $799.99 -- our price: $799.99
(price subject to change: see help)
US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France

Editorial Review

Bright and boldly colored, this espresso machine from FrancisFrancis! is for those who relish sleek, modern design in their kitchen and cheerful colors in their decor. Leave it out on the counter, as it's too heavy to move around much. Besides, part of the fun is looking at it. The machine is 10-by-12 inches in overall size and has an instrument panel look on the front: flip switches, pilot lights, and a temperature gauge to allow for more precise temperature control, which helps prevent overheating the espresso. There's also a pull-out drawer in the bottom section to house the drip grill, a removable plastic bin at the back for the water supply, a built-in cappuccino feature, and a circular wire holder on top for warming inverted coffee cups.

This machine is designed for use with prepackaged coffee "pods," specifically Easy Serving Espresso (ESE) pods, or with regular ground coffee--handles for both are included. --Marcie Bovetz

Editor's note: This item may arrive with water inside from the manufacturer's pressure test. This is a normal occurrence and doesn't point to a problem with the machine. ... Read more

Features

• Measures 10 by 10-1/4 by 12 inches; 3-month product warranty; 1-year service warranty
• Ideal for making coffee specialty drinks at home; hot water dispenser for tea
• Temperature gauge provides precise control; steam nozzle heats milk to make cappuccinos
• Circular wire holder on top warms inverted coffee cups
• For use with packaged coffee pods or ground coffee; powder-coated steel finish

Reviews (44)

2001 model still going strong! Great espresso
Having worn out a Capresso machine after daily brewing 4-6 shots of espresso in making lattes/cappuccinos, etc. I went looking for a more durable machine.

I bought an X1 in 2001/2 when it was a brand new model (in stainless) and it is great:

1. It heats up quickly.
2. It brews VERY consistently.
3. The ESE thing is the best mess-preventer ever.
4. Separate steam-temperature setting is great. Heats milk much faster than other, cheaper consumer models.
5. Machine has capacity to steam enough milk for at least 3 tall lattes before needing a quick "refill" of water from the pump switch.
6. I like the simplicity and total manual operation. The switches aren't labeled, but there's only 3. Kind of a morning meditation for me.

The most important, non-obvious things:

1. Don't leave a pod in the holder and move temperature to steam setting. When you unhook the pod holder, steam will instantly blow apart the ESE pod, which, given that it is more than boiling hot, will hurt, plus will dry instantly on the wall.
2. Use INDIVIDUALLY WRAPPED ESE pods, unless you use them all within 2-3 hours of opening the tin. They sour very quickly, even in the freezer. I am partial to Starbucks pods, given my household's addiction to that brand, but I think that is more of a preference than a quality issue. Illy tastes fine, but you have to use them all quickly.
3. If you serve a lot of guests, the double unit (X3?) might be better. With the dual-temperature settings, you'll spend a lot of time running water through the unit to cool the steam setting back down to brew the next batch of espresso. Lots of refills of the water container, which is a bit of a pain to remove from the back of the machine.

Overall, a great performer after 4 years of daily, multiple use. This thing is a great machine.

GIVES YOU A PHENOMENAL ESPRESSO IF YOU HANDLE CORRECTLY
Two months ago I bought the X1 from the new serie "X1 by appointment" at the online store azone.ch. Discount price about 500 USD including a box of 18 E.S.E pods from AMICI. The inventor of the machine Francesco Illy is a "pope" of the coffee industry. He founded the "Francis Francis" Company in Switzerland. His father and grandfather are the founder of the "ILLY" coffee brand. A name for sophisticated taste of coffee. Francesco Illy started to launch his own brand "AMICI". There are actually 4 different E.S.E. pods available. My favourites are the "Espresso" (silver box with red stripe) and "Ristretto" (..with black stripe). Please check amici.ch for more information. So, that's a little bit about history and now my review: When I read the negative postings I wonder why there are some problems when using the machine or why the coffee gives some people only average joy. Here my suggestions for a real espresso experience:

Rule 1: Strictly use the E.S.E. pods....the one from AMICI or LAVAZZA I can suggest. Not try to use non-E.S.E. pods. They will not fit perfectly.

Rule 2: Buy some high quality espresso cups. If the porcelain is robust and thick it can keep and lead the warmth much better.

Rule 3: Always use pre-heatened cup. Place them on top of the coffee machine. I never turn off the machine. If you switched of the machine, wait about 20 minutes before preparing coffee.
And important: Pour one espresso cup of water before inserting any pod. This guarantees, that the cup gets his temperature and that the machine gets its operation temperature.

Rule 4: Keep your machine clean. After every use clean the pad-holder. Put it in the machine (be sure there are no pods inside) and simply pour water for about 10 seconds trough it.

Rule 5: For the ones who experienced damages, I think, they didn't threat it correctly! After using the steam YOU MUST SWITCH BACK to the espresso mode and activate the toggle switch for espresso. Simply pour water about 20 seconds. Now the boiler will not overheat and protects the machine. If you do not follow that rule your machine could be damaged seriously!

Final commentary: Those people who wants to compare the X1 with any one from Braun for about 99 USD and think the taste is the same, I must only say, that they have no concept of good coffee taste. The Francis Francis is nothing for people who confuse real espresso flavor with the over-sweeted plastic or paper taste of any Mc Donalds or Dunkin' Donuts sewage.
The first time I have seen the X1 I knew, soon or less I will purchase it. The unmistakable design didn't relinquish myself anymore. Every day walking to the kitchen, the Francis Francis X1 smiles at me. A machine to take into one's heart.

Marcel Dubach, ZURICH

Great looker, with faults. but i think it is great.
I am going t give this machine 2 stars for looks and an extra star for function this makes it a 3 star machine.I will review it to counter another review about this machine.The review was written by : Diego Frare.
1-**You can only get a perfect espresso from a professional machine and only if you use it to make dozens of coffees every day. I think the average bar in Italy makes hundreds of cups a day, and in places like some highway service areas they easily make over one thousand every day.**
a-I don't know how is this relevant
b-It is not true, If you teach yourself the art of making espresso, then you can make "great" espresso from many machines that are on the market today, but making the "perfect" espresso is a debatable for even the professional machines.
2-**The most annoying one is the lack of a pressure relief valve, so the water remains under pressure for minutes after you finish brewing your coffee, and you cannot remove the portafilter without getting coffee grounds sprayed all over. **
a-I believe the machine has a pressure valve, that does not allow the pressure to go above a certain amount (my guess 11 or 12 bar). What Diego is referring to is the absence of a 3 way pressure relief valve.This crates what is called "portafilter sneeze" which he describes.
b-The solution for that is in the same box as the machine came with. I guess you need to read the instructions to get the best out of your machine.
c-The solution is using the providedTamping / Anti "Sneeze" Gizmo, with it you car remove the Portafilter (PF) right away with no worries of any mess.
3-**. Another flaw is the finish, too prone to get scratched, at least in the black version. **
a-I have the red one, and I do not have any problems keeping it scratch free.
4-**. Also, the front panel of the plastic drip tray should have been made of stainless steel: because it's made of regular steel, you need to remove the front panel every time you wash the tray, otherwise it will rust easily. It wouldn't be too bad if it popped out and snapped back in, but you have to unscrew the knob to remove it. **
a-I am not sure which machine is Diego reviewing here. I am completely lost.What I have is a cover plate made of stainless steel (your cup would sit on there), then I have the drip tray, and it slides out like a drawer (you could detach it completely for ease of cleaning, this is the knob you see in the picture)
5-**. I closely looked at the spouts, and it's a one piece die cast unit, so I don't think it's my particular example that's bad, but it's a design flaw or a bad die cast template **
a-This is not true. The PF is cast but the spouts are screwed into the threaded part of the PF, the cause for that problem is most probably uneven tamping.
6-**if you put a fraction of a gram too much, the system will not be tight enough and water will leak from the top of the portafilter and fall into your cup.**
a-the machine comes with two baskets, one single shot and one double shot. Single is supposed to filled with 7 grams. I filled mine with 9 grams (using an accurate electronic scale [error is 0.1]) and I had no leakage at all.I guess if you go above this for the single basket (which I do not see why) you will have a problem.
7-** consistently decent espresso with a home machine ** (steps)
a-great instructions which I think everyone should use

In summery Diego might have a bad apple, and should have sent it back to the company under it's warranty.But also it might have been an older X1, the new X1's have been almost completely rebuilt as of 2004.
MY NEG for this machine are as follows:
1-Single shot basket is hard to perfect (I still have not perfected it), yet for sure you will need to put more ground coffee than what the instruction say.
2-The new boiler thermo controller is very accurate è it turns on and off the boiler at least 3-4 times during the process of brewing 1 shot of espresso. This is good, yet the problem is when the boiler goes on again, there seems to be a small drop in electricity to the pump that is driving the coffee through.I think this is missed thing when the company made the 110V version of their European 240V.
3-Stem wand is too short and that strong.It is hard, but you can do some micro foaming with it, but not with too deep of a pitcher.

4-The absence of a pressure gauge.

I will not go and list the PLUS things since the Negatives should be a good indicator of the quality of the machine. If you need to read more go to coffeegeek.com and check their review of this machine.
[...] ... Read more

Asin: B00004RBRE

Le Creuset 2-1/4-Quart Tomato Casserole, Chili Red
Average Customer Review:
Kitchen
list price: $100.00 -- our price: $99.99
(price subject to change: see help)
US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France

Editorial Review

Beautiful enough to bring to the table and durable enough tooutlive its 101-year warranty against defects, this heavy casserole isshaped like a bright red tomato, perfect for preparing andceremoniously serving a vegetable stew or other festive dish. Use it inthe oven or on the stovetop. Made of cast-iron with an exterior andinterior clad in Le Creuset's famous, bright enamel, this casseroleholds 2 quarts. Because cast iron is unexcelled for heat distributionand retention, the casserole cooks foods evenly and gently without hotspots. The knob on its heavy, tight-fitting lid is ovenproof to 450degrees F. Handles facilitate carrying, and the casserole isdishwasher-safe. Like all Le Creuset products, it's made in France.--Fred Brack ... Read more

Features

• 101-year warranty
• Can be used in the oven or on the stovetop; holds 2 quarts
• Made of enameled cast iron--unexcelled for heat distribution, retention
• Heavy, tight-fitting lid; knob on lid ovenproof to 450 degrees F
• Dishwasher-safe

Reviews (11)

Love love love it!
I received this tomato pot for my wedding last year, and it has not yet been put into my cupboard. I keep it out on my stove!

I have made rice, potatoes, soup and sauces in it ... all to perfection. It really works and I have no complaints with it. It was actually my favorite gift, looking back. And the one I have used the most.

I plan to collect as many Le Creuset items as I can ... they are beautiful, durable ... and I remember coveting my roommate's when we were in college.

For the reviewer who can't believe people pay $100 for a casserole dish: What about as a nice gift for someone who will treasure it forever?

Tomato Red, Fun to Use, Delight to the Eye
I have collected ALL of Le Creuset's fruit and vegetable shaped cast iron enameled casseroles. In my 40+ years of cooking these casseroles are at the top of the list for fun, functionality and beauty all rolled up into one. They are beautiful to display on a table or on a kitchen counter and very practical in cooking superb casseroles, soups, stews and other wonderful dishes. The color that they can add to a kitchen brightens every vist there. The exterior and interior enamel coating is very durable and easy to clean. I have cooked a multitude of dishes in these casseroles and have found them to be excellent in heat conduction and preventing "hot spots". The wider and lower shaped casseroles are a little better in spreading the heat.

The warranty against defects of 101 years will certainly last beyond my expected needs but it is nice to know that I have the protection since these are not inexpensive purchases.

The comments of guests served from these casseroles is always positive and never fails to bring a smile to my face. I use them regularly for the family as well.

There is a drawback to these whimsical cookers and that is the rim of both the top and bottom of the casseroles. There is no enamel on these rims and they can rust if not dried immediately after hand washing. They are dishwasher safe but I do recommend that you hand wash and dry immediately. I also recommend that you let them sit out for an hour or so to air dry before storing them.

When wet this casserole can be very slippery and the handles on the bottom and top help in preventing dropping them. Be really careful!

Finally, closely inspect your casserole when it arrives. My first garlic casserole had a two inch crack in the enamel. I did not have to contact Le Crueset since Amazon.com immediately sent a replacement to me and had the defective item picked up at my home at no charge. I commend them for standing behind the products they sell.

The RIPEST Tomato!
This casserole is excellent.I bought this one, and the green pepper, as a set to use when serving salsas and sauces.They look great on the table together.Then I went and gave them their own shelf and they've been so pretty together up there.I get compliments on them EVERY TIME someone new comes into my kitchen - often from regulars who just admire them all the time.I think they are worth the money just for the quality and uniqueness of the product but make no mistake, as darling as they are they are real workhorses when it comes to cooking and serving and a delight to use for host and guest alike.

Both of my pots came with a "stemlike" handle, not the round handle shown in the pic.Check out the yellow pepper to see the handle you'll probably get. ... Read more

Asin: B00005AWC5
Subjects:  1. (Cook Ware)    2. (Lecreuset)    3. (Le Cruset)    4. (Le Crueset)    5. Bakers    6. Casseroles    7. (Caseroles)    8. Baking Dishes    9. Bakeware    10. (Bake Ware)    11. Cookware