If you look for a serious espresso machine, the KitchenAid Pro Line (Artisan) Espresso Machine is a solid and stylish choice.

I just got me one this week. I am allergic against those automatic coffee makers where you just stick a pad in and push a button. It is just not the cool way to make coffee.
When I first encountered the KitchenAid Espresso machine, I was kind of wondering how an American Company would know how to make a great Espresso (No, the Espresso at Starbucks is not good). It became clear after I learned that KitchenAid partnered with Italian Gaggia to make the Pro Line. KitchenAid provided the heavy metal and design for this solid machine.
Even if they say you need tons of practice to make a great Espresso or Cappuccino with this kind of machines - the first cup was already decent and it still gets better. And that is the whole fun about making your own espresso. It is personal and not about pushing a button and rinse a pad.

Only issue with the KitchenAid Espresso machine is it's high price. In Germany I got it for 584Euros (~$692). I actually got the metallic one not the red one shown in the photo.
Amazon.com sells it for $799.99.

See also our Kitchen Gadget Guide.