C'è una macchina del caffè?

Is there a coffee machine?

Pronunciation

mac-CHI-na — three syllables, stress on the second. 'ch' before 'i' is hard.

When to use it

Ask on arrival — coffee is essential in Italy and knowing what equipment is available shapes your morning.

What it means

'Macchina del caffè' can refer to various types of coffee maker. The most common Italian home coffee maker is the 'moka' (stovetop espresso maker), followed by pod machines ('macchine a cialde/capsule') and filter coffee machines.

Variations

C'è una moka?

Is there a moka pot?

The traditional Italian stovetop espresso maker — essential in any Italian home

Dove compro le capsule per la macchinetta?

Where do I buy the capsules for the coffee machine?

Ask if the machine uses specific brand capsules (Nespresso, Illy, Lavazza)

Come si usa la moka?

How do you use the moka pot?

Ask if you have never used one — it is simple but has specific steps

Mini Dialogue

— C'è una macchina del caffè? — Sì, c'è una Nespresso sul bancone. Le capsule sono nel cassetto sotto. — Perfetto. E c'è anche una moka? — Certo, la moka è nel mobiletto a sinistra. Il caffè macinato è nel frigorifero.

— Is there a coffee machine? — Yes, there is a Nespresso on the counter. The capsules are in the drawer below. — Perfect. And is there also a moka pot? — Of course, the moka is in the cabinet on the left. Ground coffee is in the fridge.

Cultural Note

The 'moka' (also called 'macchinetta' or 'caffettiera') is an Italian cultural icon designed by Alfonso Bialetti in 1933. Every Italian home has one. Learning to use it correctly — water below the valve, medium-fine grind, low heat — is a rite of passage for Italian visitors.

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