Mr. Coffee Espresso and Cappuccino Machine & Coffee Grinder - Automatic Grinder with 5 Presets, 12 Cup Capacity, Black

Product Overview

For anyone tired of drive-through lines, the Café Barista promises to deliver espresso drinks on demand. The machine is semi-automatic, meaning you control the shot volume and stop, but the grinder and frother are automatic. The included 12-cup capacity refers to the water reservoir; actual espresso output depends on grind size and amount. The machine comes with a reusable filter basket and a milk frother that can produce both hot and cold foam. The grinding chamber is removable and features a cleaning system that twists to help dislodge grounds. The manufacturer notes that grind size, coffee amount, and tamp pressure all affect extraction pressure, so some experimentation is required. The machine is made primarily from stainless steel and plastic, with a compact design that fits on most countertops. It includes a programmable feature to adjust brew settings and a recipe book to inspire drinks like Espresso Martinis. The Café Barista replaces both a grinder and an espresso maker, saving counter space and simplifying the morning routine.

Build & Materials

The Café Barista combines a stainless steel finish with black plastic accents, giving it a classic countertop espresso machine look. The grinding chamber is located on the top, with a hopper that holds whole beans. The front of the machine houses the brew head, portafilter, and drip tray. The milk reservoir sits on the side and can be removed for refrigeration or cleaning. The portafilter accepts both single and double shot baskets, and the reusable filter is included. The machine measures approximately 12.5 inches wide, 11 inches deep, and 13 inches high, fitting under standard cabinets. The cord is 26 inches long, which may require a nearby outlet. The removable grinding chamber and twist-clean mechanism are standout design features that address a common hassle in grinder-equipped machines: buildup of coffee residue.

The semi-automatic operation means you control the shot start and stop, but the grinder and frother automate the other steps. The control panel includes simple buttons for single or double shot, steam, and hot water. While the build feels sturdy, some plastic parts may not withstand years of heavy use. The included milk frother has limited capacity, enough for two to three drinks before refilling. Overall, the design prioritizes convenience and space-saving over commercial-grade durability.

Shot Quality

The 15-bar pump is capable of producing the pressure needed for espresso extraction, but real-world results depend heavily on grind size and tamping technique. The manufacturer advises that too coarse a grind, too little coffee, or insufficient tamping can lead to inadequate pressure and poor extraction. With the five grind settings available, users can experiment to find the sweet spot for their preferred beans. The machine's automatic dosing system delivers a consistent amount of ground coffee into the portafilter, but the grind quality may not match dedicated burr grinders. Many home users report that it takes a few tries to dial in the right settings, after which the machine produces acceptable espresso with decent crema.

The automatic milk frother generates foam that is reasonably thick and can be adjusted by how long you steam. It is not as powerful as commercial steam wands but is sufficient for cappuccinos and lattes. The machine also has a hot water function for Americanos or tea. In terms of temperature stability, the Café Barista uses a thermoblock heating system, which heats water quickly but temperature may fluctuate slightly during longer shots. Overall, while the Café Barista does not match the precision of high-end espresso machines, it offers a reliable path to home espresso with minimal extra equipment.