(1) Comes with 15-bar thermo pump
The Cafe Roma’s pump maintains 15 bar pressure, which is more than enough for authentic espresso. The Breville company says their dual wall portafilter enhances the crema production and the espresso’s flavor. The Breville thermo block heating system maintains the water temperature at the correct level. You can’t make great espresso without adequately controlled pressure and water temperature, so while there is little in the way of technical data on these two systems they appear to be doing the job well based on the results.
(2) Has Dual filtering system.
There are three separate inserts included for the portafilter. These inserts allow you to make either a double shot or single shot or as an alternative to use a coffee pod. Having the choice to use a pod is a feature which is very much appreciated. It is easy to tell the inserts apart from each other because they are all clearly marked on the bottom.
(3)Has 40.6 removable tank
The water tank holds 40.6 ounces, which is plenty big enough for even the most high volume home use. The tank and the opening it slides into are both shaped in an asymmetrical fashion so there is no danger of inserting it incorrectly. Once it reaches the bottom, a gentle push seals it securely in its connection. The Cafe Roma has a clear window that runs up the side which allows you to monitor the water level. In certain low lighting, the window can be difficult to see through.
(4)Has extra cleaning and pitching accessories
In the box are several nice extras including a cool little cleaning tool for the steaming wand and inserts, a combination scoop and tamper, a stainless steel milk pitcher and 2 stainless steel espresso cups and the aforementioned portafilter inserts. It is recommended that anyone looking for a dependable and easy to use semi-automatic check out the Breville Cafe Roma ESP8XL espresso machine.
(5) Has semi-automated controls
Operating this machine is very simple, and the controls are efficient and understated. Brew time and volume are managed by the operator, as they are on all semi-automatics. The front panel of the maker has two very simple controls, and the whole process can be completed one-handed. The red light and the orange heating light illuminates when you flip the power button. Once the machine is ready, the heating signal goes out, and you just turn the large knob to either left for steaming/frothing or to the right for brewing.
Just in front of the window on the right is the steaming wand. The wand swivels to the left and right, but it doesn’t move up and down as is the case on some other machines. You can count on properly steamed milk compliments of the thermo block heating system I mentioned earlier. The frothing action on this machine is substantial, and you can easily over do it. If the nozzle ever clogs, the tip screws off for easy cleaning.
We recommend that you check out the Breville ESP8XL Cafe Roma Stainless Espresso Maker