The Panini Maker

I love paninis, but places like Panera Bread can get expensive, so I decided to buy my very own panini maker. I am not only able to make paninis in the comfort of my home, I feel as though a void in the pit of my stomach is now filled.

Kohl's has the Kalorik Maker, online only, for $89.99. Now, I know this seems steep, but if you think about it, the number of times a panini fanatic goes to Panera would eventually add up. Also, this will be well worth every penny. Back to the Kalorik, some beneficial features of this handy maker include: a large surface for the entire family, a drip tray, good for capturing fat and grease for healthier cooking, and temperature control.

The second maker from Kohl's is really neat because it's also a grill. I know! It's called the Wolfgang Puck Gourmet Grill and Panini Press (first image). It's available online for $59.99 and has nonstick ribbed cooking plates for easier cleanup, an indicator light to let you know when the grill is preheated, and a drip cup for oil and grease.

Amazon has the Cuisinart GR-1 Griddler Panini and Sandwich Press for $89.99. It has non-removable grill plates and is brushed in a stainless-steel housing.

They also have the Brentwood Maker, Black and Stainl Small for less money. This costs $14.12 and has a non-stick coating, along with cord storage, and cool touch housing and handle.

Walmart has the Oster DuraCeramic Maker, Black for $29.92. This one is four-times more durable, cooks up to 20% faster, and works as both panini maker or grill.

The next from Walmart is the Proctor Silex Indoor Grill with Panini Press for $45.80. This bad boy has a nonstick surface for easy cleanup and adjustable heat for maximum cooking control.

Target has the Sunbeam Maker for $29.99 (online price). It has a 180-degree rotation, is nonstick, and the metal finish is stainless steel. It can also hold two slices of bread at one time.

The next from Target is the Bella Maker-to the left and online only-for $29.99. It's nonstick, has an 800-wattage, and has grill plates that allow for two-sided cooking.

Williams-Sonoma has the Krups Maker for $79.95. It has cast-aluminum cooking plates to guarantee even browning and a convenient latch to lock the maker closed for easy storing.

They also have the Breville Panini Press and Grill for $119.95, if you're looking for something a little fancier. It can be used to grill meats and vegetables, as well as toasting the sandwiches, and has a nonstick cast-aluminum plate for even browning.