Breville Oracle Touch Espresso Machine Review: Is the Breville ESP8XL Cafe Roma Still Worth Buying?
Introduction
Breville Oracle Touch espresso machine enthusiasts often search for affordable alternatives or secondary machines that deliver authentic espresso without the complexity and cost of premium models. The Breville ESP8XL Cafe Roma Stainless Espresso Maker is one of the most popular compact espresso machines for home users who want rich espresso, creamy cappuccinos, and delicious lattes in a stylish stainless steel package.
Although it belongs to a different product line than the flagship Breville Oracle Touch espresso machine, the Cafe Roma shares the same commitment to quality construction, ease of use, and consistent espresso extraction. Its compact footprint, stainless steel housing, and dual-wall filter system make it a great choice for beginners and coffee lovers who want café-style drinks at home.
The Breville ESP8XL measures 9 x 9 x 12 inches, making it easy to fit on small countertops while still providing powerful espresso-making capabilities. With a 15-bar thermoblock pump system, steam wand, and included accessories, this machine offers impressive versatility for daily coffee routines.
Main Features of the Breville ESP8XL Cafe Roma
1. Premium Stainless Steel Construction
The Cafe Roma features an elegant brushed stainless steel body that looks modern and professional. Unlike many plastic espresso machines in this price range, the durable metal housing offers better longevity and an upscale appearance that complements any kitchen décor.
2. 15-Bar Thermoblock Pump System
Pressure is essential for producing authentic espresso. The 15-bar pump system ensures optimal extraction pressure, helping create flavorful espresso shots with rich crema. The thermoblock heating system also warms up quickly, reducing waiting time before brewing.
3. Dual-Wall Filter System
The dual-wall filters are ideal for beginners because they help regulate pressure and improve extraction consistency. Even users with limited espresso-making experience can produce balanced and smooth coffee with minimal effort.
4. Powerful Steam Wand
The integrated steam wand allows users to froth milk for cappuccinos, flat whites, and lattes. It creates creamy milk foam suitable for everyday coffee drinks and provides more control than many entry-level machines.
5. Compact Countertop Design
With dimensions of only 9 x 9 x 12 inches, the Cafe Roma occupies very little space while delivering impressive functionality. It is especially useful for apartments, offices, or smaller kitchens.
Brewing Experience
The Breville ESP8XL is designed to simplify espresso making. The straightforward controls allow users to brew single or double shots quickly, while the included measuring spoon and tamper make preparation easier.
The thermoblock system heats rapidly, meaning less waiting time during busy mornings. Once heated, the machine maintains a stable brewing temperature for consistent espresso extraction.
The steam wand offers enough power to create silky milk foam, making it possible to prepare café favorites like cappuccinos and lattes at home. Although it lacks the advanced automation of premium machines such as the Breville Oracle Touch espresso machine, the Cafe Roma provides excellent value and enjoyable hands-on espresso preparation.
Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Elegant stainless steel body | No built-in grinder |
| 15-bar pump produces rich crema | Manual milk frothing requires practice |
| Compact and space-saving | Smaller water tank than premium models |
| Easy to use for beginners | No touchscreen controls |
| Fast thermoblock heating system | Limited customization features |
Performance and Daily Use
In everyday use, the Cafe Roma performs exceptionally well for an entry-level espresso machine. The brewing process is straightforward, and the pressure system consistently extracts flavorful espresso shots.
The included dual-wall filter baskets reduce the learning curve, allowing beginners to enjoy balanced espresso without needing professional barista skills. More experienced coffee enthusiasts can experiment with grind sizes and tamping techniques for even better results.
Milk frothing is another strong point. The steam wand produces creamy foam suitable for cappuccinos and lattes, making the machine versatile enough for multiple coffee recipes.
For users upgrading from capsule machines or drip coffee makers, the Breville ESP8XL offers a significant improvement in coffee quality and brewing flexibility.
Design and Build Quality
Breville has long been recognized for combining functionality with elegant design. The Cafe Roma is no exception. The brushed stainless steel finish resists fingerprints and gives the machine a premium appearance.
The compact size allows it to fit easily into kitchens where space is limited. Controls are intuitive, making the machine approachable even for first-time espresso makers.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Breville ESP8XL good for beginners?
Yes. The dual-wall filter system and easy controls make it one of the best beginner-friendly espresso machines available.
Does the machine include a grinder?
No. The Cafe Roma does not have a built-in grinder, so users need pre-ground coffee or a separate grinder.
Can I make cappuccinos and lattes?
Absolutely. The steam wand allows you to froth milk for cappuccinos, lattes, flat whites, and other milk-based coffee drinks.
How does it compare with the Breville Oracle Touch espresso machine?
The Oracle Touch is a premium fully automatic espresso machine with touchscreen controls and an integrated grinder. The Cafe Roma is a more affordable manual machine that focuses on simplicity and compact design.
Is the stainless steel body durable?
Yes. The brushed stainless steel housing is sturdy, attractive, and designed for long-term daily use.
Final Verdict
The Breville ESP8XL Cafe Roma Stainless Espresso Maker remains one of the most appealing entry-level espresso machines for home coffee enthusiasts. It combines a stylish stainless steel design, reliable 15-bar pressure system, quick heating technology, and milk frothing capabilities in a compact package.
While it does not offer the automation of the Breville Oracle Touch espresso machine, it delivers excellent espresso quality, ease of use, and dependable performance. For anyone seeking an affordable and stylish espresso maker that produces café-style beverages at home, the Cafe Roma is a worthwhile choice.