Suppose you’ve been waiting for a powerful, all-in-one espresso solution that balances café-level quality with everyday convenience. In that case, the Cuisinart Espresso Bar™ Grind & Brew might be your answer. As the flagship model in Cuisinart’s new Espresso Bar™ series, this semi-automatic espresso machine features an integrated conical burr grinder, bottomless portafilter, and one-touch cold extraction—everything you need to craft barista-style drinks right at home.
A Premium Espresso Machine with Smart Features
At first glance, the Espresso Bar™ Grind & Brew is built for coffee lovers who want more control and better results than typical entry-level models. It offers:
- 16 grind settings from fine to coarse for everything from espressos to French press.
- A 54mm stainless steel bottomless portafilter that gives you full visibility into shot quality and consistency.
- Assisted tamping with a tamping lever that ensures a flat, even puck.
- 20 bars of pressure for a rich, balanced extraction.
- A frothing wand suitable for both dairy and plant-based milk.
- Cold extraction mode for iced espresso drinks at the push of a button.
- A 75 oz. front-loading water reservoir and integrated accessory storage tray for added convenience.
In the box, you’ll also find helpful tools like a dosing guide, milk jug, filters for single/double shots, cleaning brushes, and a tamper puck—everything you need to get started right away.
What Users Are Saying
Although this model is newly released, early testers and reviewers have shared a lot of helpful feedback:
- Impressive build quality: At 35 lbs, it feels like a commercial-grade appliance. Many users describe it as solid, well-designed, and stylish on the countertop.
- Espresso quality rivals Breville: Users with experience using Breville’s Barista Express or Bambino models found the espresso quality on par, with excellent crema and flavor when properly dialed in.
- User-friendly yet customizable: Beginners appreciate the step-by-step instructions and clearly labeled grind dial, while experienced home baristas love the ability to customize grind size and shot duration.
- Cold espresso and steam wand add versatility: The cold brew function is a standout, and the steam wand performs well for most users, though a few would prefer stronger steam pressure.
- Thoughtful design choices: The cup-warming plate, travel mug compatibility, and hidden accessory tray all add to the premium experience.
Minor Drawbacks
Some reviewers did mention a few downsides:
- The machine’s large footprint may be overwhelming for small kitchens.
- The tamping lever design—while helpful for beginners—is disliked by some experienced users who prefer manual tamping.
- No pressurized baskets included, meaning you’ll need to dial in your grind precisely for best results (a plus for quality, but requires learning).
Comparison with Other Cuisinart Espresso Bar™ Models
| Feature | Grind & Brew (This Model) | Slim Espresso Machine | Espresso Machine |
| Type | Semi-Automatic | Semi-Automatic | Semi-Automatic |
| Pressure | 20 Bars | 15 Bars | 20 Bars |
| Integrated Grinder | Yes (16 Settings) | No | No |
| Bottomless Portafilter | 54 mm Stainless Steel | 52 mm | 54 mm |
| Bean Hopper Capacity | 1/2 Pound | – | – |
| Water Tank Capacity | 48 oz (Front-Loaded) | 51 oz | 48 oz (Front Loaded) |
| Travel Mug Compatible | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Assisted Tamping | ✓ | ||
| Cold Extraction | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Milk Frother with Plant/Dairy Settings | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
The Grind & Brew stands out as the most complete and flexible option, ideal for users who want bean-to-cup convenience without sacrificing quality or customization.
Final Thoughts
The Cuisinart Espresso Bar™ Grind & Brew is an exciting debut in the espresso machine space, especially for a brand best known for other kitchen essentials. It’s beginner-friendly, but with just enough control and quality to satisfy aspiring home baristas. If you’re serious about coffee and want the ability to fine-tune every step—from grind to froth—this model delivers excellent value and performance.
Whether you’re moving on from your Keurig or looking to retire your daily coffee shop visit, this is a machine that makes the transition smooth, delicious, and rewarding.