User Manual Bella 13683 Steam Espresso Maker

The coffee holder is 50mm at the top but tapers slightly to 47mm at the bottom. The plastic tamper that comes with the set is 50mm and works OK as long as there is 2 to 4 servings of coffer in the holder. We actually use a flat bottomed coffee scoop that is slightly smaller than the holder.

As long as your drinking just plain espresso. If you wanna make a drink if recommend pouring it in. Esp with americanos. You want to pour the espresso when it meets with the water so the creme floats on top and the heavier, darker coffee sinks in

I see everyone seems to agree the answer to this is "no". I must disagree, however. I use it for regular 'drip' grind as well and have found that it brings the flavor of the coffee out wonderfully. If you've ever bought a coffee shop brand of ground coffee or beans and were disappointed that it doesn't taste like it does when you get it served by the barista, try it in this machine.