it has a strainer in the bottom part where you place the grounds and then I guess water in top and it steams...just a small unit I saw for 20$
I currently use a coffeefrench press for fresh brewed coffee

A Bialletti. This is the same as the Godfather used. The power espresso it brews is a preference. I wanted the darkest strongest and boldest cup and got it! It is way better and less messy than a press. Just be sure to clean it promptly after each pot.