The Canberra Times

9 best stovetop espresso makers in Australia you can buy

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Picture by Shutterstock
Picture by Shutterstock

Stovetop espresso makers, often called Moka pots, have been a staple in homes for generations, especially in Italy where they originated from.

Their popularity stems from their ability to produce a rich, robust coffee akin to traditional espresso but without the complexity or expense of an espresso machine.

We've researched the market to find a selection of espresso makers for the stove that might be suitable for you.

Here's our shortlist of the five best stovetop espresso makers in Australia:

  1. GROSCHE Milano Stovetop Espresso Maker - Best stovetop espresso maker overall
  2. Bellman Espresso Maker - Great for rich tasting espressos
  3. Leaf & Bean Glass Stovetop Espresso Maker - Best glass stovetop coffee maker
  4. Bialetti Brikka Noir Exclusive - Italian stovetop moka pot with a heat-resistant handle
  5. Easyworkz Diego 4Cup Espresso Maker - Great option for induction burners

Our top stovetop espresso makers

Whether you're a beginner or an experienced barista, these selections are sure to enhance your coffee-making experience.

Best stovetop espresso maker you can get

Picture by Alternative Brewing.
Picture by Alternative Brewing.

A rich and genuine espresso experience is guaranteed by the elegant and sophisticated Italian design of the GROSCHE Milano Stovetop Espresso Maker. Because it is made of premium materials and is guaranteed to be safe and long-lasting, coffee lovers can trust it to be a trustworthy option and a great alternative to a traditional coffee machine for the home.

Its tiny form makes it ideal for travelling and camping, and its adaptability allows it to brew a variety of coffee styles, from cappuccino to espresso. It's important to note that the espresso maker needs to be handwashed for upkeep and is incompatible with induction stovetops, despite its remarkable features.

With its affordable pricing and capacity to make cafe-quality espresso at home, the GROSCHE Milano is a great deal. For individuals who value excellence, practicality, and artistry in their coffee-making process, this is an essential purchase.

It might not be as appropriate for people who depend on induction stovetops or who are looking for dishwasher-safe appliances, though.

The GROSCHE Milano has every feature one could want from a high-end espresso maker, including an Italian safety valve for safe operation, a soft touch handle for comfort, and a food-grade aluminium body for peace of mind during brewing.

I can personally vouch for the product's outstanding performance and dependability having used and tested it extensively. Reviews from customers support this statement, complimenting the product's easy delivery of real espresso.

The GROSCHE Milano Stovetop Espresso Maker is available at Alternative Brewing from $49.90 or Amazon with prices starting from $49.

Pros

  • Reminiscent of classic Italian style for real espresso.
  • Durability and safety are ensured by premium materials.
  • Useful for a variety of coffee types.
  • Ideal for travelling and camping.
  • Elegant hues enhance visual appeal.

Cons

  • Not compatible with induction stovetops.
  • Handwashing is required for maintenance.

Best for rich espressos

Picture by Alternative Brewing.
Picture by Alternative Brewing.

Say hello to barista-quality espresso and steamed milk right in the comfort of your own home with the Bellman Espresso & Steamer CX 25P.

This ingenious stovetop espresso maker and steamer brings the allure of the cafe straight to your kitchen, offering unparalleled convenience and quality with every brew.

Crafted with precision and durability in mind, the Bellman CX 25P brews espresso that rivals that of your favorite local cafe. Its stove-top design creates an intense and flavorful brew, reminiscent of the rich espresso you'd get from a traditional moka pot.

Plus, with the ability to brew anywhere from three to nine servings, you can easily cater to the whole crew with just a few simple steps.

One of the standout features of the Bellman CX 25P is its attached pressure gauge, which takes the guesswork out of brewing the perfect shot.

This handy gauge lets you know exactly when enough pressure has built up to brew a balanced shot, ensuring consistent results every time. And when it's time to steam milk for your cappuccinos or lattes, the cafe-style steam wand delivers creamy, silky milk worthy of any professional espresso machine.

Operating the Bellman CX 25P is a breeze, thanks to its straightforward brewing instructions. Simply add water and ground coffee, place it on high heat, and watch as the pressure gauge guides you through the brewing process.

And with its versatile design, this espresso maker and steamer is compatible with gas, electric, ceramic, and most induction cooktops, making it the perfect companion for both home and outdoor use.

Built to last, the Bellman CX 25P features a durable construction of 18/8 stainless steel and bakelite, ensuring years of reliable performance. Plus, its lightweight and portable design make it ideal for camping trips, so you can enjoy delicious campsite coffee wherever you go.

In summary, the Bellman Espresso and Steamer CX 25P is a must-have for any coffee enthusiast looking to take their espresso game to the next level.

With its easy stovetop brewing, attached pressure gauge, cafe-style milk steaming, and durable construction, it's the perfect choice for brewing barista-quality espresso at home or on the go.

Pros:

  • Easy stovetop espresso brewing
  • Attached pressure gauge for precise brewing
  • Cafe-style milk steaming for creamy, silky milk
  • Durable construction of stainless steel and bakelite
  • Portable design ideal for camping trips
  • Brews anywhere from three to nine servings

Cons:

  • Requires some manual operation and monitoring
  • Not suitable for those seeking automated espresso machines

Best glass stovetop coffee maker

Picture by Alternative Brewing.
Picture by Alternative Brewing.

The Leaf & Bean Glass Stovetop Espresso Maker offers a practical brewing option with its vintage appearance and transparent glass top that allows you to see the brewing process. It brews delicious espresso for up to three cups in minutes and has a simple, fast operation.

Nevertheless, it can be difficult to clean the upper chamber, and the handle tends to heat up when in use. Additionally, depending on the regularity of the grind, there may be variations in the amount of water that clears from the bottom compartment.

This espresso maker's affordable price and easy-to-use visual monitoring function make it a fantastic value. It's appropriate for coffee lovers who value ease of use and take pleasure in watching the brewing process. But those who value easy cleaning or handles that withstand heat might find it less appropriate.

Its speedy operation, classic stovetop espresso maker style, and glass top for sight during brewing are its key characteristics. My experience proved how convenient it is, however, there were also significant negatives, such as the hot handle and cleaning difficulties.

Customer reviews support similar opinions, highlighting the product's ease but also pointing up cleaning challenges and sporadic problems with water removal.

Pros

  • Classic stovetop percolator design for rich espresso.
  • A clear glass top allows for visual monitoring of brewing.
  • Quick and simple operation for convenience.
  • Suitable for brewing multiple cups.
  • Reasonably priced and offers good value.

Cons

  • The handle may get hot during use.
  • Cleaning the top compartment can be challenging.
  • Inconsistency in water clearing from the bottom compartment.

Italian stovetop moka pot with a heat-resistant handle

Picture by Alternative Brewing.
Picture by Alternative Brewing.

With its unique blend of flair and innovation, the Bialetti Brikka Noir Exclusive perfectly captures the spirit of Italian coffee history. Its unique brewing method enhances the coffee experience by producing the desired espresso crème.

It is made with precision from a robust aluminium alloy that guarantees pure coffee flavour and radiates long-lasting quality. It is a pleasure to use because of the soft-touch handle, which enhances comfort and elegance in the brewing process.

Brikka Noir is a competitively priced coffee that delivers great value for its high-end features and superb espresso quality. For coffee lovers looking for real Italian coffee workmanship, it's perfect. However, bigger parties or houses with several coffee users may find their 2-cup capacity to be restrictive.

Customers have praised the Brikka Noir for its ability to make a smooth crema and genuine espresso. Although some customers would prefer options with greater capacities, overall product satisfaction is still rather high.

In summary, the Bialetti Brikka Noir Exclusive offers unmatched quality and innovation, making it a masterpiece of espresso workmanship.

Alternative Brewing sells the Bialetti Brikka Noir Exclusive for $109.90.

Pros

  • A patented brewing system produces coveted espresso crema.
  • Crafted with precision from durable aluminium alloy.
  • Soft-touch handle adds comfort and elegance to the brewing process.

Cons

  • Limited to 2-cup capacity.

Great option for induction burners

Picture Amazon.com.au
Picture Amazon.com.au

The Easyworkz Diego is designed for performance as well as style, with a sleek, modern appearance that makes it look good in the kitchen. Considerate features like heat resistance and high shine guarantee that safety and style go hand in hand.

It's a little small, but it packs a powerful punch-four strong shots of espresso should be more than enough for daily use or when a friend stops by.

When it comes to flexibility, this tiny treasure has it covered. Work it on gas, electric, or induction-the Diego is a flexible option for kitchens with various cooktops because it doesn't discriminate. Moreover, it's easy to disassemble after brewing, making cleanup a snap.

Finally, I must point out that you can change the amount of coffee. Not always in the mood for the typical four shots? Not to worry. With the reducer, you can adjust the brew's strength to your preference.

The Easyworkz Diego is a product worth considering for those who take their coffee and kitchen appliance aesthetics seriously.

Pros

  • Aesthetically pleasing with elements that withstand heat for handling safety
  • Adaptable and appropriate for various sorts of stoves, including induction
  • Features a reducer so you can brew fewer amounts to suit your tastes.

Cons

  • The 200 ml capacity can seem insufficient to some.
  • For frequent uses, handle and lid durability over time may be an issue.
  • Expensive materials could make a model cost more than others.

Best value for money moka pot

Picture Amazon.com.au
Picture Amazon.com.au

A little taste of Italian coffee culture is provided with the Bialetti Moka Express. It's ideal for anyone who values traditional methods of brewing coffee because it combines traditional design elements with contemporary functionality.

It has been a mainstay in Italian homes since 1933.

The Moka Express requires some skill to brew, but if you get the hang of it, you can make a strong, fragrant espresso. It's ideal for people who want the strong flavour of a freshly brewed cup of coffee to start their day.

Because of the aluminium construction of the pot, heat is distributed evenly and rapidly, resulting in a consistently good brew every time.

The Bialetti Moka Express is simple to maintain. It's not dishwasher safe, but it may be kept in excellent shape with a fast clean in warm water. You must stay away from detergents to preserve the flavour of your coffee. The distinct flavour of Italy is delivered with every use, from your hob to your cup.

The Bialetti Moka Express only costs $38.90 at Alternative Brewing or $64.95 at Myer.

Pros

  • Maintains the traditional coffee-making ritual.
  • Superior Italian artistry.
  • Easy to maintain and operate.

Cons

  • Some people could be concerned about aluminium construction.
  • Dishwasher not recommended.
  • Less capacity than anticipated.

Best dishwasher-safe moka pot

Picture Amazon.com.au
Picture Amazon.com.au

I'm drawn to this stovetop espresso maker because of its stylish appearance and adaptability to different types of heat sources. Durability is assured by its high gauge magnetic stainless steel base.

Making coffee can be a ceremonial way to start the day, and this appliance seems to provide a convenient and visually appealing experience.

When preparing food and beverages, high-quality materials are essential, and Easyworkz Pedro delivers with its superior stainless steel body. Customers may anticipate a long-lasting shine because of its dishwasher-safe construction, which facilitates easy cleanup.

With the ability to prepare six cups, the maker makes sure there's plenty for everyone or just enough kick for one person. Because it's manual, I can manage the brewing process and guarantee a unique espresso each and every time.

The product's clever additions, such as the coffee reducer and additional safety valve, highlight its user-friendly design. I value the consideration that went into these features since they provide me flexibility and peace of mind when preparing coffee.

In addition, the Easyworkz Pedro is said to be simple to disassemble, making it a good choice for both novice and seasoned baristas.

Its highly-rated user experiences indicate that, even with some reservations about its price and plastic components, it's a worthwhile addition to the kitchen for espresso fans.

Pros

  • Adaptable and compatible with induction, gas, and electric stovetops.
  • Superior, anti-rust 18/8 stainless steel structure.
  • Features a coffee reduction to accommodate different tastes in coffee intensity.

Cons

  • High-quality materials could be more expensive.
  • Concerns regarding longevity with heavy use are raised by some users.
  • Not everyone will find heat-resistant plastic components appealing.

Easy-to-use alternative

Picture Amazon.com.au
Picture Amazon.com.au

The RAINBEAN espresso maker is reasonably priced, especially for individuals who enjoy strong coffee without the hassle of expensive appliances.

Both inexperienced and seasoned coffee drinkers seeking to savour a traditional brew will find it appealing due to its straightforward design and simplicity of use.

Its portability makes it appropriate for a range of situations, such as outdoor activities and camping. Thus, this little device is capable of providing a soothing brew outside or a morning pick-me-up at home.

The espresso maker requires little maintenance. Because of its design, disassembling it quickly and thoroughly ensures that your coffee will continue to taste fresh.

It will last longer and resist rust if you remember to dry it thoroughly, keeping it in perfect shape for your regular coffee habit.

The RAINBEAN 3 Cup Espresso Maker is the cheapest on Amazon for only $19.99.

Pros

  • Inexpensive and yields a strong taste.
  • It is lightweight and portable, making it ideal for travel.
  • Simple to clean by hand.

Cons

  • May drip if you pour quickly.
  • The handle might not be able to endure extreme heat.
  • Some doubts regarding its long-term endurance because of its lightweight design.

Cheap stovetop coffee maker on Amazon

Picture Amazon.com.au
Picture Amazon.com.au

Espresso makers that run on a hob are highly regarded due to their ease of use and capacity to create rich, flavorful coffee. Based on my analysis, the Primula Espresso Maker seems like a good option for anyone who wants to have this kind of experience.

Its design allows it to work effectively on gas and electric stovetops, passing almost boiling water over coffee grinds to produce a classic and pleasant espresso.

The ease of use of this specific espresso maker is something that I find outstanding. It is quite easy to construct, fill, and use, which is very helpful for people who are not very familiar with manual coffee brewing techniques.

Furthermore, even though aluminium is thought to be less luxurious than other materials, its sturdy structure ensures longevity.

This espresso maker just needs to be hand-washed for maintenance, which makes it a shame that you can't just toss it in the dishwasher for convenience.

All in all, cleaning takes a little time and work, but it guarantees that every espresso cup has the best flavour possible. A small price to pay for such incredibly fulfilling outcomes.

Pros

  • Produces thick, rich espresso with a creamy foam.
  • Superior aluminium body with a cool-to-the-touch grip.
  • Easy initial setup and cleanup procedures.

Cons

  • To guarantee taste, the first batch of espresso must be thrown out.
  • Hand washing is necessary; not dishwasher-safe.
  • The aluminium construction may not seem as high-end to some as stainless steel.

So, what is a stovetop coffee maker?

A coffee maker that runs on the stovetop without electricity is called a stovetop coffee maker. Other names for it are macchinetta, moka pot and stovetop espresso maker.

Despite the moniker "espresso maker," stovetop coffee makers produce a strong, concentrated coffee that is akin to espresso rather than actual espresso. Moka pots brew coffee using finely ground coffee (coffee grounds) and water.

Here's five benefits of stovetop coffee makers you should know

Affordable in Australia

Stovetop coffee makers offer a reasonably priced solution for making excellent coffee at home in Australia, where living expenses might be quite expensive.

The pricing range for them usually varies from $20 to $50, contingent on the size, brand, and material. Italian producer Bialetti is one of the most well-known and accessible brands in Australian retail establishments and online.

Portable for outdoor adventures

Compared to an espresso machine, stovetop coffee makers are a great option for road trips, camping vacations, and beach adventures due to Australia's breathtaking scenery and outdoor lifestyle.

A Moka pot coffee maker lets you prepare a great cup of coffee without using electricity, whether you're having a weekend vacation in one of Australia's national parks or exploring the Outback.

Convenient and easy of use

These are important to many Australians due to their busy lifestyles. The brewing process with ground coffee is hassle-free with stovetop coffee machines.

The easy steps of adding coffee grinds, filling the bottom chamber with water, and setting the pot on the hob make brewing coffee a breeze, regardless of whether you're a weekend warrior or a busy professional running to work.

Flexible to Australian tastes

Australians like a wide variety of coffee beans, from robust espresso-style concoctions to softer, milk-based drinks like flat whites and lattes. To satisfy various tastes, stovetop coffee makers let customers change things like the grind size, the ratio of coffee to water, and the brewing duration to get the intensity and flavour profile they want.

Durable for longevity

Given the difficult terrain and diverse climate of Australia, consumers place high importance on long-lasting products. Generally made of sturdy materials like aluminium or stainless steel, stainless steel moka pots are long-lasting and resistant to deterioration.

For Australian coffee lovers, a hob coffee maker is a smart investment since, with the right care and maintenance, it can withstand years of frequent usage.

Frequently asked questions

What features should I look for in the highest-quality stainless steel stovetop espresso makers?

I recommend giving a heavy-duty structure, a safety valve, and an ergonomic handle first priority while looking for the best stovetop espresso makers made of stainless steel. The material's grade, which is typically 18/10 stainless steel, has a big impact on both flavour and durability.

How does the Grosche Milano compare to the Bialetti in terms of performance and reliability? 

While the Bialetti has a well-established reputation for dependability, the Grosche Milano is renowned for its sturdy construction and consistency. While both function exceptionally well, Bialetti frequently wins out due to its long history of dependability.

What are the leading alternatives to Bialetti for stovetop espresso makers?

GROSCHE Milano, Cuisinox Roma, and Alessi Pulcina are notable substitutes for Bialetti. Each maintains superior espresso production capabilities while offering a distinct look.

Is it possible to achieve authentic espresso quality with stovetop coffee makers?

Stovetop espresso makers can produce authentic espresso quality when used properly. Depending on the method and coffee grind, these machines can produce enough pressure to produce richly charred espresso, although the final product may differ.

Which stovetop espresso maker models are suitable for use on induction cooktops?

Induction cooktops work well with stovetop espresso makers such as the Bialetti Venus, Alessi Pulcina, and GROSCHE Milano Stainless Steel models. For optimal induction compatibility, it is imperative to confirm that the base is made of stainless steel and is magnetically conductive.