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Alessi: Italian Design History and 10 Best Products to Buy

Alessi: Where Everyday Objects Become Italian Design Icons

Few companies have transformed ordinary household objects as imaginatively as Alessi. Kettles, corkscrews, coffee makers, fruit bowls and citrus squeezers become conversation pieces in the hands of this celebrated Italian brand.

Founded in Piedmont in 1921, Alessi began as a small metalworking workshop. Over more than a century, it developed into one of the most recognizable names in international product design.

Today, Alessi is admired for combining practical function, Italian craftsmanship, technological experimentation and a playful sense of humor. Its catalog ranges from affordable kitchen accessories to collectible creations displayed in important design museums.

This guide explores Alessi’s history, the designers who shaped its identity and ten popular Alessi products that shoppers can find on Amazon.com.

Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, Italia Mia earns from qualifying purchases. Product selection, prices, colors and availability may change. Please confirm the latest information on Amazon.com before purchasing.

A Short History of Alessi

Giovanni Alessi and his brother founded Fratelli Alessi Omegna in 1921 in Omegna, near Lake Orta in Piedmont. The original workshop produced household objects from brass and nickel silver.

Its earliest products reflected the refined tableware created by prestigious Austrian and British manufacturers. The quality of this early craftsmanship established the technical foundation that would eventually allow Alessi to experiment with far more adventurous designs.

During the 1950s, the company moved from small-scale craft production toward industrial manufacturing. Stainless steel became increasingly important because it offered durability, hygiene and a polished surface reminiscent of silver.

Alessi’s identity evolved dramatically under Alberto Alessi, who treated product design as a cultural activity rather than simply a manufacturing process. Architects, artists and industrial designers were invited to reinvent familiar domestic objects.

A kettle no longer needed to look like every other kettle. A corkscrew could become a character. A citrus squeezer could resemble a piece of futuristic sculpture.

This philosophy helped turn Alessi into what it calls a “Dream Factory”—a company where mass-produced household objects can carry emotion, personality and artistic meaning.

Readers interested in the wider movement can explore Italia Mia’s guide to iconic Italian design brands and its overview of Italian products and craftsmanship.

The Designers Who Shaped Alessi

Alessi’s reputation is inseparable from its collaborations with internationally important architects and designers.

Michael Graves

American architect Michael Graves brought color, humor and postmodern symbolism into the kitchen. His famous 9093 kettle, introduced in 1985, remains one of Alessi’s most recognizable creations.

The kettle demonstrates how a functional object can become friendly and theatrical without losing its usefulness.

Philippe Starck

French designer Philippe Starck created Juicy Salif, the sculptural citrus squeezer that resembles a futuristic creature. It remains one of the clearest examples of Alessi’s ability to blur the boundary between kitchen utensil and artwork.

Alessandro Mendini

Italian architect and design theorist Alessandro Mendini gave human personality to household tools. His Anna G. and Alessandro M. corkscrews are functional objects presented as colorful, smiling characters.

Michele De Lucchi

Italian architect Michele De Lucchi designed the Plissé collection. Its folded surfaces evoke pleated fabric, giving electrical kitchen appliances an unexpectedly architectural and fashionable appearance.

Richard Sapper

German-born industrial designer Richard Sapper created the 9090 espresso coffee maker. The elegant stainless-steel object became an important symbol of Alessi’s transition from traditional metalworking to internationally respected design.

More examples of Italy’s contribution to modern product design can be found in Italia Mia’s article about Italian designs selected by the Museum of Modern Art.

Ten Popular Alessi Products Available on Amazon.com

The following selection includes products recognized as Alessi bestsellers or enduring design icons. Since Amazon listings change frequently, the links lead to current Amazon.com search results for each product.

1. Alessi Plissé Electric Kettle

Designed by Michele De Lucchi, the Plissé electric kettle turns a familiar kitchen appliance into a sculptural decorative object.

Its pleated exterior was inspired by folded fabric and the world of fashion. The geometric surface produces changing patterns of light and shadow, allowing the kettle to stand out even when it is not being used.

The thermoplastic body is relatively lightweight, while the concealed heating element and electric base make it practical for everyday use. Different capacities and colors may be available, including black, white, red, green and blue.

Buyers in the United States should confirm that the selected model has a US-compatible plug and voltage.

Best for: Contemporary kitchens, wedding presents and design-conscious shoppers.

View the Alessi Plissé Electric Kettle on Amazon.com

2. Alessi 9093 Kettle with Bird Whistle

Michael Graves designed the celebrated 9093 kettle in 1985. Its polished stainless-steel body, bold handle and small bird-shaped whistle combine architectural geometry with a playful personality.

When the water reaches boiling point, steam causes the bird to whistle. This small theatrical detail transformed an ordinary kitchen routine into a memorable experience.

The kettle became an international symbol of postmodern design and remains one of the objects most closely associated with Alessi. It is available in different sizes and accent colors, while certain versions have a magnetic base suitable for induction cooking.

Best for: Alessi collectors and anyone seeking an unmistakable Italian design icon.

View the Alessi 9093 Kettle on Amazon.com

3. Alessi Juicy Salif Citrus Squeezer

Designed by Philippe Starck and introduced in 1990, Juicy Salif is among the world’s most recognizable citrus squeezers.

Its long aluminum legs and tapered central body give it the appearance of a futuristic spider, rocket or sea creature. The distinctive form reportedly originated from sketches Starck made while eating calamari and squeezing lemon in a restaurant.

Juicy Salif stands directly above a glass. A halved lemon, lime or orange is pressed against its ridged top, allowing the juice to run downward into the glass below.

The product is as much a sculpture as a kitchen tool. Many owners keep it permanently on display as an example of provocative modern design.

Best for: Design collectors, housewarming gifts and statement kitchens.

View the Alessi Juicy Salif Citrus Squeezer on Amazon.com

4. Alessi Anna G. Corkscrew

Alessandro Mendini’s Anna G. corkscrew gives a familiar wine accessory a humorous human form.

Turning the figure’s head drives the screw into the cork and raises its arms. Pushing the arms downward then removes the cork from the bottle. This simple mechanical movement becomes a small performance at the table.

Introduced in 1994, Anna G. became one of Alessi’s most popular characters. Numerous colors, decorative patterns and limited editions have appeared over the years, making the corkscrew both a practical accessory and a collectible object.

Best for: Wine lovers, hostess gifts and buyers seeking an affordable introduction to Alessi.

View the Alessi Anna G. Corkscrew on Amazon.com

5. Alessi Pulcina Espresso Coffee Maker

Michele De Lucchi designed the Pulcina espresso coffee maker after studying the process used to prepare coffee in a traditional moka pot.

Its stepped aluminum body creates a distinctive architectural profile. The unusual form makes Pulcina look almost like a small building, while its pronounced spout was designed to pour cleanly and reduce dripping.

Pulcina is available in different capacities and with several handle colors. Buyers should choose the appropriate size carefully because Italian moka capacities are measured in small espresso-sized cups rather than large American coffee mugs.

The selected version should also be checked for stovetop compatibility.

Best for: Coffee drinkers who want a modern alternative to the traditional moka pot.

Readers can learn more about espresso, moka coffee and café etiquette in Italia Mia’s complete guide to Italian coffee culture.

View the Alessi Pulcina Coffee Maker on Amazon.com

6. Alessi 9090 Espresso Coffee Maker

Its stainless-steel construction, wide base and distinctive lever closure separate it from conventional aluminum moka pots. Instead of unscrewing the upper and lower chambers, users operate the lever mechanism to open and close the coffee maker.

The polished form has an elegant industrial character. Certain models may be suitable for induction stovetops, but buyers should verify the specifications of the exact size and variation before purchasing.

The 9090 is significantly more expensive than a standard moka pot, but its construction and design history make it particularly attractive to collectors.

Best for: Serious design enthusiasts and coffee drinkers who prefer stainless steel.

View the Alessi 9090 Espresso Coffee Maker on Amazon.com

7. Alessi Moka Coffee Maker

British architect David Chipperfield reinterpreted the classic Italian stovetop coffee maker for Alessi’s Moka collection.

The design preserves the familiar faceted aluminum body while refining its proportions, handle and lid. Its clean silhouette is less theatrical than many other Alessi creations, making it a good choice for shoppers who prefer restrained contemporary design.

Several cup capacities are normally offered. A smaller model is suitable for one person, while larger versions are better for preparing coffee for family or guests.

The Moka collection connects Alessi’s design philosophy with one of Italy’s most recognizable domestic rituals.

Discover the history and cultural importance of this brewing method in Italia Mia’s article about the stovetop moka pot.

Best for: Everyday coffee preparation and understated designer kitchens.

View the Alessi Moka Coffee Maker on Amazon.com

8. Alessi Todo Giant Cheese Grater

Richard Sapper’s Todo giant cheese grater is immediately recognizable because of its unusually long, conical form.

Unlike a conventional box grater, Todo was designed to grate enough cheese for an entire serving dish in one continuous movement. It is particularly appropriate for finishing pasta, risotto or other dishes at the table.

The stainless-steel grating surface is paired with a wooden handle, combining industrial precision with the warmth of a natural material. Its dramatic size also makes it an attractive object to leave on display in the kitchen.

Best for: Pasta lovers, enthusiastic home cooks and memorable culinary gifts.

View the Alessi Todo Giant Cheese Grater on Amazon.com

9. Alessi Mediterraneo Fruit Holder

Designer Emma Silvestris created the Mediterraneo fruit holder with an intricate branching form inspired by coral growing beneath the sea.

The open steel structure produces beautiful patterns of light and shadow while allowing air to circulate around fruit. It can also be used as a decorative centerpiece without holding anything at all.

The Mediterraneo collection is offered in different sizes and finishes. Its organic appearance provides an appealing contrast to the strict geometry associated with many modern kitchen accessories.

Best for: Dining tables, kitchen islands, wedding gifts and Mediterranean-inspired interiors.

View the Alessi Mediterraneo Fruit Holder on Amazon.com

10. Alessi Alessandro M. Corkscrew

Alessandro Mendini created the Alessandro M. corkscrew as a companion to Anna G.

The product turns the mechanics of opening a bottle into an amusing performance involving a colorful human figure. Rotating the head inserts the screw, raises the arms and prepares the cork for removal.

Alessandro M. has appeared in numerous colors and decorative editions. It makes a useful gift for wine enthusiasts while remaining unmistakably associated with Alessi’s playful approach to domestic design.

Collectors often display Anna G. and Alessandro M. together as a pair.

Best for: Wine enthusiasts, design collectors and admirers of Alessandro Mendini.

View the Alessi Alessandro M. Corkscrew on Amazon.com

How to Choose the Right Alessi Product

Decide Between Everyday Use and Display

Some Alessi objects are designed for frequent practical use, while others are purchased primarily for their visual or collectible value.

The Moka coffee maker, Pulcina and Anna G. corkscrew can become everyday tools. Juicy Salif and the 9093 kettle often function simultaneously as utensils and decorative objects.

Consider how often the recipient will use the product and whether its appearance is more important than maximum practicality.

Check the Materials and Care Instructions

Alessi uses stainless steel, aluminum, thermoplastic resin, wood and other materials. Each material requires different care.

Polished metal may show fingerprints. Aluminum should not necessarily be placed in a dishwasher, while painted and resin components may require hand washing. Abrasive cleaners can damage polished or colored surfaces.

Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the exact model rather than assuming that every Alessi product is dishwasher-safe.

Confirm Size, Voltage and Compatibility

Coffee makers are sold in different cup capacities. Electric appliances can vary by voltage and plug type, while cookware compatibility depends on the stovetop.

Amazon listings sometimes combine several sizes and colors on the same page. Check the selected variation carefully before ordering.

Look for Authentic Alessi Branding

Authentic products should identify Alessi as the manufacturer or brand and include appropriate packaging and product information.

Extremely low prices, unclear manufacturer names and inaccurate photographs deserve additional scrutiny. Checking the seller’s identity and recent customer feedback can reduce the risk of receiving an imitation or incorrectly described product.

Are All Alessi Products Made in Italy?

Alessi remains an Italian company with deep roots in Omegna, Piedmont. However, not every product bearing the Alessi name is physically manufactured in Italy.

The company designs, develops and quality-controls its collections in Italy while assigning the production of selected items to international manufacturing partners. The country of manufacture can therefore vary according to the product and material.

Shoppers specifically seeking an item made in Italy should check the individual listing, packaging or official product information before purchasing.

Why Alessi Remains Important

Alessi’s greatest achievement is not any single kettle, corkscrew or coffee maker. It is the company’s continuing argument that ordinary domestic life deserves imagination.

A coffee maker can express architectural ideas. A corkscrew can have a personality. A citrus squeezer can challenge the distinction between a kitchen utensil and a sculpture.

This philosophy helped Alessi become an essential part of the larger story of Made in Italy. The company demonstrates how industrial manufacturing, craftsmanship and cultural experimentation can coexist within objects created for everyday homes.

Continue exploring Italy’s creative traditions through Italia Mia’s Italian Shopping collection and its guide to authentic Italian products.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Alessi an Italian company?

Yes. Alessi was founded in 1921 in Omegna, Piedmont. Its headquarters and historic factory remain connected to the area.

What is the most famous Alessi product?

The 9093 kettle, Juicy Salif citrus squeezer and Anna G. corkscrew are among the company’s most recognizable creations.

Are Alessi products collectible?

Many Alessi objects attract collectors, particularly discontinued colors, limited editions and designs by influential architects. Collectibility and resale value vary considerably.

Are Alessi coffee makers suitable for induction stovetops?

Some stainless-steel Alessi coffee makers are induction-compatible, while traditional aluminum models generally are not. Check the specifications of the exact model and size before buying.

Where can I buy Alessi products in the United States?

Alessi operates an official US website. Popular products are also available through Amazon.com and authorized design retailers.