9 Espresso Cups I Love – Which Demitasse Suits You?
As a seasoned barista, one of the most common mistakes I see from people who are just starting out with their espresso journey is that they get so focused on trying to produce pristine espresso shots, they overlook the fact that the demitasse cup they serve their shots in is also quite important.
There are loads of espresso cups, some great, and some terrible.
But there’s sure to be one that suits your style and makes your espresso-drinking experience better.
What is an Espresso Cup (aka Demitasse Cup)?
Espresso shots are usually served in a special cup called a demitasse, which is a French word that translates to “half-cup”. It aptly describes this small container, making it just right for serving a shot or two of espresso.
Aside from its size, this cup is also designed to maintain your brew’s temperature, making sure that the shot you pull will still be packed with those desirable flavors and aromas once it is transferred to the cup. It’s better to drink espresso at a temperature of 58°C. It all starts falling apart if it cools down too much.
Now that you know what the demitasse is and why it is important in making espresso coffee, it’s time that you choose the right cup.
The Best Espresso Cups in 2024
Not all espresso cups are made the same. Some are actually terrible.
Here’s an overview of my list of the best espresso cups you can buy in 2024 followed by a detailed look at each one:
| Espresso Cups | Material | Capacity | Weight | Dimensions | Color | Insulation | Pricing | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Duralex Clear Picardie Tumbler – Editor’s Pick | Glass | 90 ml (3 oz) | 3 Ounces | 2.5″W x 2.62″H | Clear | Single glass wall | Around $25 per 6-pc. set |
| 2 | De’Longhi Espresso Cups | Glass | 90 ml (3 oz) | 2 Ounces | 2.5″W x 2.5″H | Clear | Double-wall | Around $20 per 2-pc. set |
| 3 | Fellow Monty Milk Art Cups | Ceramic | 90 ml (3 oz) | 6 ounces | 2.36″W x 2.95″H | Matte White | Double-wall | Around $35 per 2-pc. set |
| 4 | Sweese Stackable Cups | Porcelain | 4 ounces | 45 ounces (stacked) | 4.6″W x 13.3″H | Multicolor | Single Porcelain wall | Around $35 per 6-pc. set |
| 5 | Recaps Stainless Steel Cups | Stainless steel | 80 ml (2.7 oz) | 5.3 ounces | 1.61″W x 1.97″H | Silver | Double-wall | Around $14 per 2-pc. set |
| 6 | Kinto Cast Espresso Cup | Glass | 3.2 fl oz (90 ml) | 7 ounces | 2″H x 3.1″W | Clear | Single glass wall | Around $18 per piece |
| 7 | Real Deal Steel Cups | Stainless steel | 3 ounces | 4 ounces | 2.2″H x 2.5″W | Steel, Black, Blue, White | Double-wall | Around $40 per 4-pc. set |
| 8 | JoyJolt Savor Cups | Glass | 5.4 ounces | 4.6 oz | 3″W x 3.5″H | Clear | Double-wall | Around $17 per 2-pc. set |
| 9 | Konitz Porcelain Cups | Porcelain | 2 ounces | 4 ounces | 4.75″W x 2.25″H | White | Single Porcelain wall | Around $20 per 4-pc. set |
1. Duralex Picardie Clear Tumbler – Editor’s Pick
This is my favorite espresso shot glass by far, it is the one I use at home. It is made in France by the company that originally invented tempered glass, Duralex. I’ve dropped one by accident, and it didn’t break.
I love the retro styling of these cups, and they feel great to hold and drink from. They are super high quality and come at a great price. Their pack of 6 costs the same as other companies’ pack of 2, which is hard to believe.
This set includes six petite 3-ounce glasses, making them an ideal choice for espresso, or even dazzling friends with digestif servings during dinner. They have a good weight to them and are surprisingly durable too, since they are made of tempered glass that is more resistant to breakage and thermal shocks than normal glasses. I’m talking “from-freezer-to microwave” type of resistance.
However, you might run into some friction when stacking them up; they tend to stick together rather easily due to their design, but thankfully it’s not something that can’t be managed with a bit of careful handling, and they won’t break when taking them apart.
Overall though, this French-made cup scores perfect for durability, functionality, and style.
These cups could easily be sold for double, so grab a set while you can.
These Clear Tumblers are made in France by the company that invented tempered glass, Duralex, making them 2-1/2 times more resistant to breakage and chipping than normal glass.
They are very versatile. They can withstand sudden thermal shocks from -4°F to 212°F, and are safe to use in the dishwasher, refrigerator, and microwave. They maintain their original look for years, I can't imagine my home espresso without them.
Pros
Cons
Duralex Picardie Clear Tumbler, 3-1/8 oz Specifications:
- Cups: 6 pieces
- Material: Glass
- Color: Clear
- Capacity: Roughly 90 ml (3.25 oz)
- Weight: 3 Ounces
- Dimensions: 2.5″W x 2.62″H
- Handling: Dishwasher-safe, refrigerator safe
2. De’Longhi Double Wall Thermal Espresso Cups
The De’Longhi Double Wall Thermal espresso cups are my top recommendation when serving espresso shots as they aces both function and aesthetic appeal. The double-wall construction does a fantastic job of keeping your espresso hot while staying cool to the touch on the outside, plus the glass material allows you to see and diagnose your shots clearly.
Not only are these cups practical, but they also add an elegant touch to your coffee routine. The sleek design and crystal-like ring make your drink really fancy. The 90 ml capacity of the espresso cups is just right for holding a double ristretto or single shot with crema, allowing you to fully experience the rich flavors without any overflow.
The delicate glass build might be an issue to some, but I find that as far as glasses go, these cups are pretty decently built. They’re made with borosilicate glass which makes them resistant to thermal shock and they’re also dishwasher safe.
They are surprisingly light, I feel like I’m holding something super fragile when I pick them up, but they’re not.
So if you’re looking for a demitasse cup that looks sophisticated and lets you drink your espresso with ease, then the De’Longhi Double Wall Thermal espresso cups are worth considering.
These thermo espresso glasses, designed with a double-walled structure, ensure your drinks stay at the ideal temperature, be it hot or cold. And it keeps your fingers comfortable in the process. Beyond their functional benefits, their clear & elegant design also enhances the visual appeal of your espresso. The glass is rather thin and fragile though, so take care handling them.
Pros
Cons
De’Longhi Double Wall Thermal Espresso Cups Specifications:
- Cups: 2 pieces
- Material: Glass
- Color: Clear
- Capacity: 90 ml (3 oz)
- Weight: 2 Ounces
- Dimensions: 2.5″W x 2.5″H
- Handling: Dishwasher-safe
3. Fellow Monty Milk Art Cups – Best Ceramic
The Fellow Monty Milk Art Cups are designed for coffee lovers who appreciate latte art. Each cup has a special curved base that effortlessly lifts crema to the top without disruption. Its double wall also keeps your drink at the right temperature and your fingers free from burns.
Not only that, but these cups also look incredibly sleek and modern with their matte ceramic finish that comes in either black or white color. They’re also stackable so storing them away is no issue. The minor design flaw though is that it has a wide rim without a lip, which may not provide the cleanest sip.
Overall, I really love the way this demitasse cup is constructed and designed. It’s so posh, and it really does embody a canvas in a cup, emphasizing the latte art with its minimalistic design. If the 3-ounce demitasse seems too small for your latte art though, you can always go for the other sizes such as the 4.5 oz, 6.5 oz, and 11 oz.
The Monty Milk Art Espresso Cups blend modern aesthetics with functionality, offering a 3 oz matte white ceramic design accentuated by a polished copper base, ideal for savoring your espresso. Stackable and dishwasher safe, these cups are as practical as they are stylish, turning every espresso moment into a visual treat. They are pricier than other demitasses though.
Pros
Cons
Fellow Monty Milk Art Cups specifications:
- Cups: 2 pieces
- Material: Ceramic with metal base
- Color: Matte White
- Capacity: 90 ml (3 oz)
- Weight: 6 ounces
- Dimensions: 2.36″W x 2.95″H
- Handling: Dishwasher safe
4. Sweese Porcelain Stackable Espresso Cups – Best Stackable
The Sweese Porcelain Stackable espresso cups add a touch of cool colors to your kitchen counter and coffee routine. It comes with a metal stand that neatly holds the cups and saucers together.
Not only do they look good, but they are also well-made and sturdy. I appreciate the quality of the porcelain material as it feels durable and holds up well.
With a 4-ounce capacity, each cup can hold a single or double shot of espresso with extra room if you like to make add some milk foam. And because there are six cups in one stand, they are also perfect if you have visitors or there are multiple coffee drinkers at your home.
One drawback with this though is that if your hands are a bit large, the handle may not be as comfortable due to its small size. Other than that, I have no qualms about these stackable cups, and I highly recommend this set of espresso cups especially if you’re trying to keep your kitchen tidy and spacious.
Comes in 4 colors
These porcelain espresso cups offer a chic cafe vibe, complete with saucers and a compact metal stand since they are stackable. Great for small spaces. Crafted from top-notch porcelain, they're sturdy and microwave-safe as well.
Pros
Cons
Sweese Porcelain Stackable Espresso Cups specifications:
- Cups: 6 pieces with stand and saucers
- Material: Porcelain
- Color: Multicolor
- Capacity: 4 ounces
- Weight: 45 ounces (stacked)
- Dimensions: 4.6″W x 13.3″H
- Handling: Dishwasher-safe, freezer-safe, and microwave-safe
5. Recaps Stainless Steel Espresso Cups – Best Steel
If durability is at the top of your priority list, then you might want to go with the Recaps Stainless Steel Espresso Cups. Unlike their glass and ceramic counterparts that can break, this can last a lifetime with just some proper cleaning, plus it can be portable.
The design is also quite elegant. If you like the look of stainless steel in your kitchenware and appliances, then these cups’ shiny sheen and premium feel are perfect for your kitchen.
As for the size, the Recaps espresso cup’s 80ml capacity can hold a double shot of espresso without you having to worry about spills. It also has a double wall that provides thermal insulation while the wide lip offers a comfortable grip without too much heat getting into your fingers. However, the curved bottom can make the cup easy to knock over if you’re not careful.
To recap, these espresso cups are worth considering if you want practicality and functionality when serving your coffee. If you don’t want to worry about breaking your cups anymore, then the Recaps stainless steel cups are worth the purchase.
If you're anything like me, you appreciate things that are both stylish and practical. These stainless steel espresso cups, complete with a double-wall design, not only keep your drink at the right temperature, but also feel great to hold. They even stack up for space-saving.
Pros
Cons
Recaps Stainless Steel Espresso Cups Specifications:
- Cups: 2 pieces
- Material: Stainless steel
- Color: Silver
- Capacity: 80 ml (2.7 oz)
- Weight: 5.3 ounces
- Dimensions: 1.61″W x 1.97″H
- Handling: Dishwasher-safe
6. Kinto Cast Espresso Cup
This espresso cup from the Japanese brand Kinto has a uniquely elegant and minimalist look that can hold your espresso without issues. The heat-resistant glass and accompanying saucer allow you to enjoy your espresso comfortably.
The 3-ounce capacity also gives you ample room for a shot or two of your favorite coffee, with the clear glass giving you a good look at the intricate layers of your espresso— from the heart at the bottom to its rich crema on top. Plus, cleaning up after each use is a breeze, simply put it in the dishwasher or gently hand wash it.
Some might see the cup’s thin body as a concern regarding durability, but it doesn’t really feel too delicate to the touch. So if you seek a cup that has an eye-catching style with effective functionality, then you have to check out the Kinto Cast espresso cup.
The Kinto Espresso Cup & Saucer boasts an interesting, sleek design with a 90 ml capacity. The wide design is a love/hate thing, since it can make drinking the espresso feel awkward. It is made of heat-resistant glass, and is microwave and dishwasher-friendly.
Pros
Cons
Kinto Cast Espresso Cup Specifications:
- Cups: 1 piece with porcelain or steel saucer
- Material: Glass
- Color: Clear
- Capacity: 3.2 fl oz (90 ml)
- Weight: 7 ounces
- Dimensions: 2″H x 3.1″W
- Handling: Dishwasher-safe, microwave-safe
7. Real Deal Steel Double-Wall Insulated Espresso Cups
Made from high-quality stainless steel, these espresso cups from Real Deal offer great durability when preparing your coffee. Additionally, the double-wall construction teams up with the steel build to really maintain your drink’s temperature while keeping your fingers burn-free.
As for the visual appeal, the brilliant mirrored finish matches the look of many espresso machines making them quite the combination in your kitchen. If you want a touch of color though, you can also get the black, blue, or white variants. The rounded square handle also allows you to comfortably and safely hold the espresso cup as you give it a sip.
However, an issue you might encounter with these cups is that the paint in the colored variants could wear off after a year of daily dishwashing, so I recommend you opt for the stainless steel model. Other than that, these cups are really worth it if you want demitasses that could survive harsh falls.
The "Little Sipper" 3 oz insulated cups are made from double-walled stainless steel, so they maintain the warmth of your drink and ensure you don't burn your fingers. I like their basic, yes cool color choices, which use a powder coat finish so they don't fade or peel.
Pros
Cons
Real Deal Steel Double-Wall Insulated Espresso Cups Specifications:
- Cups: 4 pieces
- Material: Stainless Steel
- Color: Steel, Black, Blue, and White
- Capacity: 3 ounces
- Weight: 4 ounces
- Dimensions: 2.2″H x 2.5″W
- Handling: Machine-wash
8. JoyJolt Savor Double Wall Insulated 5.4 Oz Mugs
The JoyJolt Savor espresso cups also have the classic glass demitasse look, giving you a clear visual of your espresso within the elegant cup. It also has a double wall to keep your coffee at optimal temperature, plus a handle to make sipping sublime.
As the name “mug” describes, these are larger actually larger than a standard espresso demitasse, so don’t be surprised. You can easily make a flat white or a cappuccino in one as well.
It’s made with borosilicate glass that’s heat and condensation-resistant so that you can put it in your dishwasher and microwave without a hitch. And with a 5.4-ounce capacity, you can safely enjoy your espresso shots without spills or overflow.
A common caveat with this cup is that some may find the handle a tad too small, so if you have a big pair of hands, it might feel a bit awkward drinking in this cup. Still, the JoyJolt Savor double walled glass cups can deliver that hot and delicious espresso with style.
The JoyJolt 5.4-ounce mugs are handcrafted from durable borosilicate glass. Your coffee stays hot and your hands cool. The larger size and double-wall makes your beverage appear to float in the mug, which I find is a neat visual effect.
Pros
Cons
JoyJolt Savor Double Wall Insulated Glasses Espresso Mugs Specifications:
- Cups: 2 pieces
- Material: Glass
- Color: Clear
- Capacity: 5.4 ounces
- Weight: 4.6 oz
- Dimensions: 3″W x 3.5″H
- Handling: Dishwasher-safe, microwave-safe
9. Konitz Porcelain Espresso Cups and Saucers
If you really want to recreate that coffee shop feel at home, then the espresso cups from Konitz are a fantastic addition to your coffee bar. With their classy style and durable porcelain material, these cups not only look great but also hold up well over time.
One of the standout features of these cups is their concave-bottom design, which ensures that you get the perfect formation of crema and allows the espresso to develop its full aroma. Their handles and accompanying saucers also give you a good hold of your coffee cup when drinking.
The only drawback with these small cups is their 2-ounce capacity, which could feel restrictive to some who like to add more volume and ingredients to their cups. But if you really want that solid espresso shot or two, then these porcelain cups and saucers are an excellent choice for any coffee lover.
This set brings you four sleek, 2-ounce espresso cups and saucers in a crisp white finish. Made from durable porcelain, they're part of the Konitz Coffee Bar Collection, which is nice if you're into coordinating or mixing and matching your coffee sets.
Pros
Cons
Konitz Porcelain Espresso Cups and Saucers Specifications:
- Cups: 4 pieces
- Material: Porcelain
- Color: White
- Weight: 4 ounces
- Dimensions: 4.75″W x 2.25″H
- Handling: Dishwasher-safe
Factors to Help You Choose the Best Cup For Your Espresso
Here are the factors you should take into consideration when it comes to choosing the perfect espresso cup for your taste and style:
Size & Shape
Choose your cup’s capacity according to your needs. A 3-ounce cup may suffice if you like to enjoy a shot or two in one sitting. If your brew ratio results in longer shots, then choose a bigger cup.
The shape also affects your final brew. For example, a conclave-shaped bottom with a narrow diameter could lift your crema better, making your espresso drink more concentrated.
Material & Durability
There are various materials available for espresso cups, such as
- porcelain,
- glass,
- ceramic,
- stainless steel,
- glass in a metal frame (aka zarf)
I usually recommend porcelain as it handles heat best and it’s more durable than glass and ceramic.
Obviously, stainless steel cups are the most durable but there are concerns about it imparting a metallic taste to the coffee. However, I find that this is only common in cheap cups of that material.
But with that said, try out a few types of espresso cups, and choose the one that looks and feels best for you.
Insulation
When it comes to insulation, many go for double-wall insulated cups which are known for their ability to keep your espresso at the perfect temperature for longer periods. They also help protect your fingers from unwanted burns if the cup has no handle. This construction is really beneficial especially if you enjoy savoring your coffee slowly.
However, I am not most people, and I don’t really like double-walled espresso cups. I find that they hold my drink too hot, which is the reason my #1 pick is a single-glass wall demitasse.
Design
You’d also want a good-looking cup to hold your pristine espresso shots. Aside from the visual appeal helping you really enjoy sipping on your coffee, the look of your cups can also contribute to your kitchen’s overall style. So choose one that also feels right for your style.
Price
Making your own coffee with a home espresso machine could be a pricey affair, and the last thing you want is to overspend on cups that may not be worth it. That’s why it’s best to strike the right balance between quality and price when picking the cup that’s right for you.
By considering these factors, you should be able to select the ideal espresso cup that suits your preferences and even elevates your coffee-drinking ritual.
Which Will You Pick?
If you’re aiming for the complete espresso experience at home, then finding the right cup must be part of your checklist.
Just remember to consider important factors such as size, durability, and heat retention among others to find that ideal demitasse. Personally, I like glass cups because they really emphasize the look of my espresso.
So I encourage you to explore the best espresso cups in the market today and find the perfect pair for your brew. Let me know in the comments which cups you’ve got.
