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Cuisinox Roma Stovetop Espresso Maker Review

Our Rating: 4.6/5

Cuisinox Moka Pot

FEATURES:

  • Compatible with all stovetops, including induction
  • Polished stainless steel construction
  • Modern, sleek design
  • Reducer for when you want less than a full pot of java
  • Design
  • Functionality
  • Price

Our Rating: 4.6/5

Cuisinox Moka Pot

FEATURES:

  • Compatible with all stovetops, including induction
  • Polished stainless steel construction
  • Modern, sleek design
  • Reducer for when you want less than a full pot of java
  • Design
  • Functionality
  • Price

Cuisinox Roma Stovetop Espresso Maker Review Summary


The Cuisinox Roma Stovetop Espresso Maker takes the original moka pot and kicks it up a notch, or two. Full of smooth curves and glossy shine, this coffee machine is the epitome of a luxury statement piece

Its polished stainless steel construction is a marked improvement over aluminum versions. Not only does stainless steel retain heat better, so you can linger over that cup of joe, but it’s compatible with all cooktops. Not to mention, it will look lovely on your induction stove!

Not sure if you want all four shots right now? An included reducer allows you to brew just half the amount. If you need more coffee, though, this model also comes in larger sizes.

The only hiccup for some is the Cuisinox moka pot’s price tag. More than double the cost of other stainless steel models, it’s not an immediate choice for bean lovers new to moka coffee. But for a serious enthusiast, it’s more than worth the price.

Cuisinox is headquartered in Canada and is renowned for upscale stainless steel cookware, coffee makers, and kitchenware. Cuisinox promotes safe products for food and has received numerous awards for its innovative products.

Pros

  • Stylish, contemporary design.
  • Stainless stell with induction base.
  • Energy-saving. 25-year warranty.
  • None of the corrosion you can get with alimunim moka pots.

    Cons

    • Must be washed by hand.

    Features and Benefits of the Cuisinox Moka Pot


    If its slick looks alone aren’t enough to sway you on this moka pot, there’s plenty of other things to love about it. Here are a few of the factors I appreciate:

    Stainless Steel Design


    The Cuisinox Roma Stovetop Espresso Maker has a contemporary design and is made from heavy-grade stainless steel that’s far more durable than aluminum. It won’t wear down over time, resists scratches, and won’t affect how your beverage tastes, as some other metals can. 

    Stainless steel also retains heat longer than aluminum, so it’s okay if you don’t immediately pour that mug of joe. Aluminum can sometimes flake off over time, which might be a health concern, but that doesn’t happen with stainless steel. 

    Of course, all these benefits mean steel moka pots are more expensive than their aluminum counterparts, a cost that ardent moka coffee lovers take in their stride given the pros.

    Induction Base


    One of my favorite features, the Cuisinox Roma Moka Pot has an induction base and can be used on all stovetops, including induction cooktops. Aluminum moka pots are not magnetized, so induction stoves are a no-go.

    Induction bases are thicker and heavier than aluminum, which allows an induction stovetop to recognize the device’s weight. The base is also magnetized, an induction necessity.

    Reducer


    The Cuisinox Moka Pot has another perk that isn’t found in most models — a reducer. Make less than a full pot of coffee without affecting the flavor of your brew. Without reducers, half-full moka coffee can taste under-expressed or watery.

    If you don’t want a full pot, just place the reducer in the funnel filter. Remember to use half the amount of water and coffee grounds as well, or your java will not brew properly. You get the same full flavored-coffee you love, just less of it.

    25-Year Warranty


    A company’s warranty offerings say a lot about its customer service and products. Cuisinox offers a whopping 25-year warranty on the Cuisinox Moka Pot. Yes, you read that correctly, 25 years, way beyond the standard one or two-year warranties offered by most manufacturers. 

    Cuisinox company stands behind its products, so feel secure knowing that you’re getting a great appliance.

    What Do Users Say About the Cuisinox Roma Stovetop Espresso Maker?


    I’m more than satisfied with the Cuisinox Moka Pot so far. However, in the interest of an unbiased opinion, I’ve looked at what other people think about this device.

    With rare exceptions, users really like this model. Most people agree its contemporary style is beautiful. They appreciate its heavy and solid feeling, but with smoother edges than an aluminum model. Many Cuisinox Roma moka pot converts started with aluminum pots but now prefer stainless steel.

    Buyers love that it can be used on an induction stovetop and rave about how the coffee tastes. The ability to brew less than a full pot by using the reducer is just another bonus.

    For all of its finer points, the Cuisinox Moka Pot isn’t without a few flaws. Users note the handle can get really hot, so use caution. The device may also be somewhat difficult to clean. Cuisinox recommends washing by hand, but it’s not easy to reach every bit of its interior.

    The most common complaint is the price tag. There’s no getting around the fact that this particular appliance costs about three times more than other versions. However, you do get what you pay for and this moka pot is no exception to that rule.

    Alternatives To The Cuisinox Moka Pot


    It’s hard to find fault with the Cuisinox Moka Pot but perhaps it’s just not the right choice for you. In that case, I’ve researched some other options which might be more suitable for your kitchen.

    The Bialetti Kitty Espresso Coffee Maker is a stainless steel adaptation of the original aluminum design. This model holds about 12 ounces, making it a tad larger than the Cuisinox Moka Pot, and it has a significantly lower price point. It’s also dishwasher-safe.

    Suitable for all cooktops, including induction stoves

    Heat-resistant handle, which the Cuisinox Roma Moka Pot does not have

    Does not have to be washed by hand

    The Alessi Espresso Maker 9090 is a top of the line product that has a price tag that’s even more expensive than the Cuisinox model. It has a non-traditional design and a larger base that maximizes heat distribution. Made from stainless steel, it’s compatible with all cooktops.

    Six cups, slightly larger than the Cuisinox Roma moka pot

    Lever lock allows a pot to be opened with one hand motion

    A drip-free spout prevents spills

    About half the price of the Cuisinox Moka Pot, the GROSCHE Milano Stainless Steel Stovetop Espresso Maker is compatible with all stovetops. It’s slightly larger than the Cuisinox Roma appliance, holding about six cups, and has a certified safety valve, which GROSCHE is known for using.

    Brushed stainless steel bottom, matte black top

    Dishwasher safe, unlike the Cuisinox Moka Pot

    Uses a certified Italian safety valve

    Conclusion


    The Cuisinox Moka Pot is a stylish, upscale coffee maker that will wow you with its beauty and great-tasting java. While it may not have the long history of some other brands, Cuisinox has quickly established itself as a leader in moka pot quality.

    A polished mirror finish makes this stainless steel coffee machine shine. An induction base gives a heavier, sturdy appearance and means that any stovetop can be used. Yes, even induction cooktops — a big advantage over aluminum moka pots.

    A reducer is included with the device, so you can enjoy less than a full pot of caffeine goodness. With other models, your coffee may not taste right if you brew less than the full amount, but a reducer ensures the proportions are correct.

    Cuisinox goes an extra mile for its promises of quality with a 25-year warranty. When you consider a one-year warranty is typical, it’s obvious the company stands behind its product.

    That all said, the cost of this moka pot is one aspect that may have you hesitating.  At double, sometimes triple the price of other versions, no one would term it a cheap option. However, if you want the best of the best in moka pots, you can’t go wrong here.

    Cuisinox Roma Stovetop Espresso Maker FAQs


    Where Is the Cuisinox Roma Moka Pot Manufactured?

    The Cuisinox Moka Pot is manufactured in China.

    Should You Tamp a Moka Pot?

    No, you do not need to tamp the coffee grinds in a moka pot. Tamping coffee in a moka pot makes the packed grinds denser, which could result in excessive pressure in the moka pot. Instead, fill the device’s coffee cup with loose grinds and let the moka pot work its magic.

    Is Stovetop Espresso Real Espresso?

    Technically, no, it’s not real espresso. Real espresso requires at least 9 bars of pressure, and a moka pot only creates about 1.5 bars of pressure. However, the moka pot brewing process is similar to espresso, and the resulting coffee is stronger than drip coffee.

    How Do You Clean a Stainless Steel Stovetop Espresso Maker? 

    Use a soft cloth with soapy water. If you need to descale your moka pot, try a vinegar solution, both inside and out.

    How Much Caffeine Is in Stovetop Espresso?

    The average stovetop espresso contains over 2,000 milligrams of caffeine per liter — less than traditional espresso, but more than pour-over or drip coffee.