Breville Cafe Roma Stainless Espresso Maker - 15-Bar Pump Steam Wand, Single & Double Shot Filter, 1300W, Removable Water Tank, Silver
$288.09
In stock
- Dual-wall filter system produces rich crema with pre-ground coffee.
- Thermoblock heating delivers precise water temperature for optimal extraction.
- Powerful steam wand lets you froth milk for lattes and cappuccinos.
- Stainless steel construction ensures lasting durability and sleek style.
- Easy-to-use controls make brewing café-quality espresso at home simple.
Our Score
Unknown Breville Cafe Roma ESP8XL Review — Affordable Home Espresso with Review
The Breville Cafe Roma ESP8XL is an entry-level espresso machine designed for home users who want quality espresso without breaking the bank. It features a 15-bar thermoblock pump—enough pressure for proper extraction—and a dual-wall filter system that helps produce thick crema even with pre-ground coffee. A built-in steam wand allows for milk frothing, making cappuccinos and lattes possible. While the machine requires some practice to dial in grind size and tamping pressure, many users find the results rewarding. At around $288, it competes with other budget espresso makers but stands out for its rich crema and overall simplicity.
Product Overview
The Breville Cafe Roma is a countertop espresso machine that fits nicely on most kitchen counters, measuring 9 inches deep, 9 inches wide, and 12 inches tall. It weighs 13 pounds—heavier than some competitors, but stable enough to stay put during operation. The stainless steel exterior gives it a clean, modern look, though some reviewers note that parts like the brew head handle and the included tamper are plastic, which can feel less premium. The machine accepts ground coffee only (no pods), and its 40.6-ounce removable water tank is sufficient for several drinks before refilling. A cup-warming plate on top helps preheat espresso cups, and the drip tray slides out for easy cleaning—an overflow indicator reminds you when it’s full. The package includes two double-walled espresso cups, a stainless steel frothing pitcher, a tamper/measuring spoon, and a cleaning tool that combines a steam tip cleaner and a filter wrench. Users should plan to use a burr grinder for best results; pre-ground coffee from a store may work but requires experimentation with tamping. Cleaning after each session—especially purging and wiping the steam wand—is essential to prevent clogging. The machine is not smart-home compatible and operates with simple buttons and a selector dial for brewing or steaming.
Key Features
15-Bar Thermo Block Pump
- ✓Delivers consistent pressure for proper espresso extraction.
- ✓Heats up quickly, reducing wait time between shots.
Dual-Wall Filter System
- ✓Creates thick crema even with pre-ground coffee or imperfect grind.
- ✓Includes single and double shot filter baskets.
Powerful Steam Wand
- ✓Textures milk for cappuccinos and lattes in one cycle.
- ✓Swivels for easy positioning and includes removable tip for cleaning.
Removable Water Tank
- ✓40.6-ounce capacity visible through a window on the back.
- ✓Lifts off for easy filling at the sink.
Included Accessory Kit
- ✓Double-walled espresso cups, frothing pitcher, and cleaning tool.
- ✓Cleaning tool combines steam tip cleaner, filter brush, and wrench.
Cup Warming Plate
- ✓Heats espresso cups to help maintain brew temperature.
- ✓Integrated into the top of the machine.
Build & Materials
The Cafe Roma’s exterior is primarily stainless steel, giving it a sleek, kitchen-friendly appearance. However, several critical components are plastic: the brew head handle, the filter baskets’ outer ring, and the included tamper. Some reviewers found the brew head assembly less robust than competitors in the same price range, noting that the portafilter can feel slightly loose. The drip tray is metal with a plastic grid and a red float indicator that pops up when full—a useful feature. Over years of use, a few users reported scuffs on the cup warming plate and minor wear on the stainless finish, but overall the machine holds up well with regular care. The steam wand is stainless steel with a removable silicone tip, and the water tank is translucent plastic with measurement markings that can be hard to read in low light. The machine’s footprint is compact, and the selector dial on the front is simple: turn right to brew, left to steam.
Shot Quality
When dialed in properly, the Breville Cafe Roma produces espresso with good crema and a balanced flavor. The dual-wall filter helps beginners achieve a decent shot even if the grind isn’t perfect. Many reviewers reported that after a short learning curve—adjusting grind size and tamp pressure—they could pull shots that rivaled their local coffee shop. The machine does not have an automatic shutoff: the user must manually stop the brew by turning the dial. This means the shot volume depends on timing, which gives control but also room for error. Some users noted that the machine vibrates during operation, enough to slide lightweight cups if not held in place. The steam wand is powerful and steams milk quickly, though the included pitcher is small (suitable for two cappuccinos or one latte). After steaming, the wand can drip residual water; purging it into a cloth is recommended. Over time, some owners experienced clogging of the filter baskets if they used too fine a grind, but this was easily corrected by adjusting grind size and cleaning the baskets.
Pros and Cons
What Works
- ✓Produces rich crema and good espresso flavor once dialed in.
- ✓Powerful steam wand textures milk quickly and effectively.
- ✓Removable water tank makes refilling easy.
- ✓Includes useful accessories like double-walled cups and cleaning tool.
- ✓Cup warming plate helps maintain brew temperature.
- ✓Simple manual controls give user control over each shot.
- ✓Affordable price point for a home espresso machine.
What Doesn't
- ✗Plastic tamper feels cheap; many users replace it with a metal one.
- ✗Small water tank (40 oz) requires frequent refilling for multiple drinks.
- ✗Learning curve to get consistent shots due to grind and tamp sensitivity.
- ✗Water accumulates on top of the spent coffee puck, making removal messy.
- ✗Machine vibrates during operation; lightweight cups may slide.
- ✗Puck removal can be cumbersome—must knock out the filter manually.
The Verdict
The Breville Cafe Roma ESP8XL is a solid entry-level espresso machine that balances affordability with the ability to make respectable espresso and frothed milk. Its 15-bar pump and dual-wall filter help users achieve good crema even with pre-ground coffee, while the steam wand adds versatility for milk-based drinks. The machine does have limitations: the plastic tamper, small water tank, and manual shutoff require some patience. However, for the price (around $288), it outperforms many similarly priced competitors in terms of espresso quality. It is best suited for beginners willing to learn the basics of espresso making, or for occasional home use where convenience takes a backseat to taste.
Price vs Value
What You Get
- Consistent 15-bar extraction with good crema production.
- Steam wand capable of microfoam for lattes and cappuccinos.
- Complete starter kit with cups, frothing pitcher, and cleaning tools.
- Compact stainless steel design that fits standard countertops.
What You Pay
Approximately $288 (price may vary)
Maintenance Tips
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the Breville Cafe Roma use pods?
What grind size should I use?
How do I get good crema?
How often should I descale?
Can I use the steam wand and brew simultaneously?
Why is there water on top of the coffee puck after brewing?
(3) Comments
Product Specifications
Last updated:
