Mr. Coffee Cafe Barista Espresso Machine
Pros
- Hits the sweet spot between value and quality
- Easy to use
Cons
- Espresso isn't a match for more expensive machines
- Plastic construction
You know, people often wonder why espresso machines can be so pricey. Well, there’s a whole range of espresso machines out there to fit different budgets, and sometimes you can find a real gem for a great price. Take the Mr. Coffee Cafe Barista, for example. It’s an affordable option that still offers a decent quality brew.
Being a coffee lover, I appreciate the importance of consistency for a great cup of coffee, no matter the brewing method or recipe. While the Mr. Coffee Cafe Barista might not be the most consistent option out there, especially when it comes to brew temperature, it still manages to produce enjoyable cups of coffee.
The machine boasts an impressive 15 bars of pressure. Occasionally the machine can clog when using a fine espresso grind, however, it usually works just fine. It comes with two filter baskets, one for a single shot and one for a double. Just make sure to use the right amount of coffee grounds for the single or double-shot mode, as it only changes the water volume.
One of the best things about the Mr. Coffee Cafe Barista Espresso machine is how user-friendly it is. With just three buttons and simple indicator lights, you’ll master brewing coffee in no time. Each button has three functions, but it’s really easy to figure out: one press for a single espresso, two for a double, and a long press (3 seconds) for a third feature. The included plastic tamper is functional, but you can always upgrade to a stainless steel tamper for an even better experience.
The espresso machine features a removable milk reservoir, which might seem unusual, but it’s quite handy. While the froth quality might not be barista-level, it still ranges from decent to satisfactory, depending on the milk you use and your expectations.
The automatic frother takes some of the guesswork out of frothing, but if you prefer more control, you can always opt for a separate manual wand. To measure your milk quantities accurately, you can use a measuring cup. The frothing and milk dispensing might be slightly inconsistent, but this can be easily managed by adjusting your milk type or usage.
Cleaning the Mr. Coffee Cafe Barista is relatively simple, although the milk reservoir might need some extra attention. Just store it in the fridge and clean it regularly. For the rest of the machine, cleaning is quite standard: the water reservoir is removable for easy access, and brewing a shot or two through an empty portafilter helps maintain your machine. Mr. Coffee recommends cleaning the portafilter every 90 days and descaling the unit every 40 to 80 brew cycles.
While Mr. Coffee may not be known for premium build quality, the Cafe Barista is a practical and attractive choice. With a black plastic exterior and a thin layer of brushed or painted metal on the front, it looks quite nice. Some users might need to run vinegar through their new machines for optimal performance, but this is a minor inconvenience for a budget-friendly espresso machine.
When I first tried the espresso from the Mr. Coffee Cafe Barista, I wasn’t quite sure what to expect. However, I was genuinely impressed by the full-bodied flavor it managed to produce. The aroma was enticing, with hints of chocolate and toasted nuts that awakened my senses. The taste itself had a well-rounded balance of bitterness and natural sweetness, making each sip a delightful experience. While the espresso might not rival that of a high-end machine, it certainly exceeded expectations for a budget-friendly machine.
What truly made the espresso enjoyable was the presence of a reasonably good crema. This layer of creamy froth added a velvety, smooth texture that enhanced the overall mouthfeel of the espresso. Each sip felt like a cozy, warm embrace, making it the perfect pick-me-up for any time of the day. The Mr. Coffee Cafe Barista has proven that, despite its affordability and user-friendly design, it can still deliver a satisfying and flavorsome espresso that would please most coffee enthusiasts.
The Verdict
The Mr. Coffee Cafe Barista Espresso and Cappuccino Maker makes a solid cup of espresso. However, at this price-point there are trade-offs. It lacks the build quality of more expensive espresso machines and while it certainly makes a decent cup of java, when compared to machines like the Breville Barista Express, its quality is a step down. What makes the Mr. Coffee Barista stand out is its value. The Mr. Coffee hits the sweet spot between price, features and quality which is tough to beat.
