There is an expectation that when choosing a coffee maker, you’ll have to sacrifice counter and storage space, especially if you want a machine that does more than just serve up pod coffee. In a small kitchen, it often doesn’t feel worth the trade-off.
SMEG is seeing to that, however, launching their new Retro Manual Espresso & Cold Brew Coffee Machine, designed with both small spaces and great coffee all year round in mind.
As the brand’s smallest coffee maker to date, it features built-in accessory storage and delivers classic espresso and cold brew options, plus a steam wand, all without monopolising your countertop. I cannot help but eye it as a contender for one of the best coffee makers.
Finally, a Chic Coffee Maker fit For Small Kitchens
Available in Pastel Blue (pictured), Pastel Green, Retro Cream, as well as classic Black and White, this retro-style manual coffee maker brews espresso and cold brew in minutes, and has a built-in accessory storage that keeps your setup organized and clutter-free.
Smeg has always been a go-to for those of us who want more from our appliances than pure function. Its ‘50s-inspired silhouettes have sat proudly on kitchen counters for years, adding a sense of retro charm without the compromised performance of genuinely vintage machines.
The brand’s newest espresso and cold brew machine delivers barista-level results at home without the traditional bulk of some of the best espresso machines. Acting as both a cold brew specialist and milk steamer, it consolidates multiple functions into one compact unit, reducing the counter space required in small kitchens while also offering built-in storage for accessories. It feels like a genuine lifesaver, making a small kitchen feel bigger without sacrificing morning luxuries.
While it isn’t fully automatic, it does include a built-in pressure gauge and a professional 58mm stainless steel portafilter, giving you intuitive, hands-on control over every brew. Better still, the passive cup warmer helps keep each serving at an optimal temperature. To minimize friction, a simple QR code gives you quick access to digital manuals, tips, and guided set-ups, so even the coffee newbies can make the most of their new investment.
From making cold brew to whipping up cappuccinos with the built-in steamer (making steaming milk at home simple, and without an extra appliance cluttering your space), I can't wait to try it for myself.
What Else to Shop
SMEG has long been celebrated for the unmistakable retro styling of its appliances, but there are plenty of other ways to bring a nostalgic touch to your coffee station. I’ve curated six of my favorite pieces to help update your setup and capture that effortless vintage chic.
All prices were correct at the time of publication.
This electric kettle combines iconic midcentury style with modern features. It has an auto-shutoff when water reaches a boil, and a 360° swivel base allows easy access.
Available in 10 retro colors, we gave the drip coffee maker four stars after testing, loving the size and style, as well as the programmable timer for your morning brew.
Whether you're preparing espresso or filter coffee, this thoughtfully engineered and newly-launched grinder offers reliable performance with a sleek, retro-inspired finish.
Available in two colors, these scaled stoneware mugs add another fun, retro pop of color to your coffee set up. It is dishwasher and microwave safe for practicality, too.
These matching glass bottles come with precision pumps for easy and consistent dispensing in retro style. They also come with labels to fully personalize your setup, too.
Bialetti and Dolce & Gabbana are a match made in heaven. The retro-style tin comes with a well-rounded, aromatic Perfetto Moka Autentico ground roast, but can be repurposed for years to come for storing your own beans.
With the perfect coffee maker for your kitchen, next pick out some of the best coffee bar essentials to elevate your setup for a cafe-sle experience at home.
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