Long story short: After trying over a dozen blends, I found that the Lavazza Crema e Gusto is the best coffee for a Moka pot if you want a rich and flavorful cup of coffee.
As a coffee enthusiast, I know that finding the perfect coffee for your Moka pot can be a challenge. The Moka pot is a unique brewing method that requires a specific type of coffee to achieve the perfect balance of flavor and aroma.
I spent several weeks researching and testing various coffee blends to identify the ones that make the best coffee for a moka pot. After extensive research and testing, I have compiled a list of the best coffee for Moka pot whether you prefer a bold and rich flavor or a smooth and mellow taste, this list has something for everyone.
So, without further ado, let’s dive into the world of Moka pot coffee and discover the best options available on the market.
Best Coffee for Moka Pot Overview
Lavazza Crema E Gusto Whole Bean Coffee 1 kg Bag, Authentic Italian
- Type: Whole bean, roasted in Italy
- Tasting Notes: Full-bodied dark roast with creamy and full-bodied, with spices notes
- Roast: Dark
Bialetti Caffe Italian Roasted - 8.8 oz Espresso Ground Coffee - Classico Perfect for Moka
- Type: 100% Colombia Excelso beans
- Tasting Notes: Flowers and dried fruit
- Roast: Medium, done extra slow
illy Intenso Ground Espresso Coffee, Bold Roast, Intense, Robust and Full Flavored
- Type: A ground blend of 9 fine Arabica coffee beans from around the world
- Tasting Notes: Dark chocolate and caramel
- Roast: Intenso dark roast
Bristot Moka Oro Ground Coffee | Italian Ground Espresso | Medium Roast
- Type: Ground Italian coffee
- Roast: Medium
- Tasting Notes: Caramel and sandalwood
Sant Eustachio Ground Coffee in Can, Moka, 8.8 Ounce
- Type: Ground
- Tasting Notes: Woody, smoky, deep chocolate
- Roast: Medium-dark
V Vescovi Moka Crema | Premium Italian Ground Espresso | Medium Roast
- Type: Ground Italian espresso
- Flavor: Spices, heat, sandalwood, caramel
- Roast: Medium-dark
Equator Coffees, Tigerwalk Espresso, Whole Bean Coffee, Medium Roast, Fresh Roasted
- Type: Whole-bean specialty coffee
- Tasting notes: Chocolate with strawberry, cherry, and lemon forward notes
- Roast: Medium
Starbucks Decaf Sumatra, Whole Bean Coffee (1lb)
- Type: Whole-bean decaf
- Tasting notes: Earthy and herbal
- Roast: Dark
Let’s Dive Deeper into Each Best Coffee For Moka Pot Brewing
Lavazza Crema E Gusto Whole Bean Coffee 1 kg Bag, Authentic Italian
- Type: Whole bean, roasted in Italy
- Tasting Notes: Full-bodied dark roast with creamy and full-bodied, with spices notes
- Roast: Dark
As a daily Moka pot coffee brewer, I can attest that the Lavazza Crema E Gusto Ground Coffee Blend is the best overall coffee for Moka pot. This blend brings together the intensity of Robusta beans with the aroma and pleasant taste of Brazilian Arabica to deliver a heavenly brew every single time I make it in my Primula Moka pot.
- Perfect grind for Moka pot.
- Suitable for a range of coffee styles, including the Moka pot.
- Comes from a reputable Italian brand.
- Excellent value for money.
- Too strong for light coffee drinkers.
- Slightly bitter aftertaste if over-brewed.
The coffee features a balanced strength that provides a smooth, full-bodied cup, beaming with a rich, intense dark chocolate flavor profile and highlights of subtle spice. As the name suggests, it offers a richness of crema and a sharp gustatory experience that’s exactly what you want in espresso.
The Lavazza Crema E Gusto‘s major benefit is its specific grind level, making it ideally suited for the Moka Pot brewing method, ensuring a consistent quality of extraction. It also comes in a vacuum-sealed pack to preserve freshness, allowing you to enjoy the coffee at its best, no matter when you brew it.
Yet, the delight of tasting what is arguably one of the finest blends in the market more than compensates for these minor nuances. Give Lavazza Crema E Gusto Ground Coffee Blend a try, and discover your Moka Pot’s true potential.
Who Should Buy This?
Lavazza Crema E Gusto is for the true-blue Italian coffee-lover. If you love a powerhouse brew and don’t shy away from a punchy, full-bodied mouthfeel, this blend is perfect for you.
Bialetti Caffe Italian Roasted - 8.8 oz Espresso Ground Coffee - Classico Perfect for Moka - Intensi
- Type: 100% Colombia Excelso beans
- Tasting Notes: Flowers and dried fruit
- Roast: Medium, done extra slow
I’ve sampled coffees from around the globe, and Bialetti Caffe Italian Roasted Espresso Ground Coffee truly stands out when brewed in a Moka pot. This divine elixir boasts an intensity level of 7, striking a perfect balance between strength and smoothness. It’s actually kind of addicting.
- The coffee is roasted to perfection, which brings out all of the flavors and aromas.
- The unique grinding level ensures that you get a full-bodied but creamy and intense flavor with each brewing.
- Bialetti only chooses the finest coffee beans in the world and delivers the ideal blending and roasting to ensure the best result with your Stovetop Moka Pot.
- Some users may find the flavor too harsh.
- The bag is quite small, so you may need to order more than one if you drink a lot of coffee.
One thing I appreciate about this coffee is the roasting process. Bialetti takes its time with each batch, allowing all of the flavors and aromas to bloom. This really comes through in the taste of the coffee, which is complex and nuanced.
Let’s talk cons. Even though I find it to be well-balanced, its strength might be overpowering for you if you have a preference for milder coffees. And the portion is on the small side, so you’ll need to order it frequently if you’re a daily Moka pot drinker.
If you’re looking for a great coffee to use with your Moka pot, Bialetti Caffe Italian Roasted is definitely worth considering. Of course, the most important thing is the taste, and I can confidently say that Bialetti Caffe Italian Roasted hits the mark for me personally.
Who Should Buy This?
This is a coffee that’s perfect for anyone who loves a sharp-as-a-tack espresso that comes pre-ground and ready to rock ‘n roll.
illy Intenso Ground Espresso Coffee, Bold Roast, Intense, Robust and Full Flavored
- Type: A ground blend of 9 fine Arabica coffee beans from around the world
- Tasting Notes: Dark chocolate and caramel
- Roast: Intenso dark roast
Illy Intenso Ground Moka Coffee with its rich flavor and distinct aroma, evokes an authentic Italian coffee experience right at home. Upon trying it, the first thing that stood out to me was the unparalleled level of taste weaved into the dark roast beans.
- Finely pre-ground coffee comes ready for your Moka pot stovetop coffee maker.
- Intense and robust with notes of caramel and dark chocolate.
- 100% Arabica coffee, sustainably grown and responsibly harvested.
- Some may find the price point a bit high.
- Not suitable for those who prefer a lighter roast.
Illy coffee aims to offer a one-of-a-kind espresso, providing an exciting blend of well-rounded flavors balanced with a touch of robustness and wrapped up with a luscious hint of caramel and dark chocolate.
Especially when brewed in a Moka pot, Illy Intenso Ground Moka Coffee authentically encapsulates the texture, aroma, and intensity that Moka coffee is known for. The Moka pot, with its traditional brewing method, perfectly extracts the richness and full-body flavor of the Intenso blend, enhancing the coffee’s finer nuances.
The packaging also preserves freshness well, so it’s going to last a bit longer if you’re slow to brew it all up. Plus, it is conveniently pre-ground, saving you time and effort.
One thing I appreciate about this coffee is its sustainability. Illy has spent decades perfecting its coffee bean growing methods to stay socially, economically, and environmentally responsible. As a result, you can feel good about the coffee you’re drinking.
While the price point may be a bit high for some, I think the quality of the coffee justifies the cost.
On the other hand, it might be a bit too strong for a beginner coffee drinker or those who are more inclined towards light, mild roasts. The coffee may require a bit of getting-used-to for its darker and more robust taste. Also, as it is pre-ground, it’s not going to be as fresh as if you can get it whole bean.
Who Should Buy This?
The Illy Intenso Ground Moka Coffee is a treasure meant for true coffee aficionados – it’s a masterful blend that beautifully encapsulates the art of Italian coffee making. If you’re craving a strong, yet smooth brew with a remarkable depth of flavor, it’s the right coffee for you.
Bristot Moka Oro Ground Coffee | Italian Ground Espresso | Medium Roast
- Type: Ground Italian coffee
- Roast: Medium
- Tasting Notes: Caramel and sandalwood
I recently tried Bristot Moka Oro Ground Coffee in my Moka pot and was impressed with the results. The coffee had a strong and bold flavor that was not too overpowering. One thing I noticed was that the coffee had a slightly oily texture, which may be due to the mix of Arabica and Robusta beans. But this didn't affect the taste or quality of the coffee, and it actually felt smooth and creamy.
- The mix of Arabica and Robusta beans creates a unique and delicious flavor profile that includes hints of spices, caramel, and sandalwood.
- Medium roast level provides a rich and full-bodied taste that is not too bitter or acidic.
- Lends itself well to a variety of espresso coffee brewing methods, not just Moka pot brewers.
- The intensity level of 9/10 may be too strong for some coffee drinkers who prefer a milder taste.
- Packaging is not resealable, which may affect the freshness if not stored in a coffee container.
One thing I noticed was that the coffee had a slightly oily texture, which may be due to the mix of Arabica and Robusta beans. However, this did not affect the taste or quality of the coffee, and it actually provided a smooth and creamy mouthfeel.
Who Should Buy This?
Overall, I would recommend Bristot Moka Oro Ground Coffee to anyone who enjoys a strong coffee you can use in Moka pots as deliciously as via an expensive espresso machine. While the price point may be slightly higher than other brands, the quality and taste of the coffee make it worth the buy.
Sant Eustachio Ground Coffee in Can, Moka, 8.8 Ounce
- Type: Ground
- Tasting Notes: Woody, smoky, deep chocolate
- Roast: Medium-dark
If you are looking for a coffee that is perfect for moka pots, we recommend trying Sant’ Eustachio Ground Coffee.
Sant’ Eustachio consists of several types of Arabica beans from around the world that are gently wood-roasted before being fine-ground.
The wood-roasted flavor is uniquely delicious, and it was easy to use in our moka pot since it was already ground. The coffee had a rich aroma and a smooth taste, which made for a perfect morning cup of coffee.
- Wood roasted for a slightly smoky concentrated coffee.
- The coffee is ground, which saves you from grinding your own beans if you don’t have a coffee grinder.
- Naturally air-dried to preserve oils.
- The right type of coffee if you use a Moka pot for cappuccinos and other milk-based drinks.
- Beans used in this blend are naturally lower in caffeine.
- Only available in a can, no bags. Sometimes arrives dented.
- On the expensive side per volume.
Who Should Buy This?
Sant’ Eustachio Ground Coffee is the best coffee for your Moka pot if you savor a slightly woody and smoky espresso roast, and don’t mind the canned packaging.
V Vescovi Moka Crema | Premium Italian Ground Espresso | Medium Roast
- Type: Ground Italian espresso
- Flavor: Spices, heat, sandalwood, caramel
- Roast: Medium-dark
V Vescovi Moka Crema is a solid coffee for Moka pot brewing because its 70/30 blend of Arabica and Robusta creates a spicy-sweet flavor that’s surprising and sensual. It’s the type of coffee you use when you’re not waking up alone. 😉
- Italian premium ground espresso is a perfect blend of 70% Arabica and 30% Robusta, offering a rich flavor profile.
- Suitable for Moka pot and pour-over brewing.
- Intense, creamy flavor.
- Too bold for those who prefer a light coffee roast.
- Small amount of coffee per portion.
- Slightly more expensive compared to other brands.
I also tried the coffee in a French press and pour-over. The taste was just as good when I used my Chemex but I didn’t love the extraction in my French press. The coffee is fine-ground and ended up being too over-extracted in the steep-plunge French press method.
If you’re looking for a premium coffee blend that offers a unique flavor profile, V Vescovi Moka Crema is worth trying. The coffee is suitable for use in a variety of coffee brewing methods, and the intense flavor is sure to satisfy even the most discerning coffee lovers. Although the price may be slightly higher compared to other brands, the quality justifies the cost.
Who Should Buy This?
You should try the V Vescovi Moka Crema if your perfect cup of coffee has a spicy-sweet profile—and you want to enjoy brewing with a Moka pot as often as with a drip coffee maker or pour over.
Equator Coffees, Tigerwalk Espresso, Whole Bean Coffee, Medium Roast, Fresh Roasted, Cherry, Chocola
- Type: Whole-bean specialty coffee
- Tasting notes: Chocolate with strawberry, cherry, and lemon forward notes
- Roast: Medium
Equator Coffees offers a stellar product called the Tigerwalk Espresso which is my pick for the best sustainable coffee for moka pot fans. This exquisite blend is meticulously crafted to provide a rich and robust flavor profile that is specifically tailored for moka pot brewing. The coffee beans are sustainably sourced from small-scale farmers who adhere to environmentally friendly practices.
- Sustainable farming practices and promoting fair wages for coffee farmers.
- Coffee is organic. No harmful pesticides or chemicals are used in its cultivation. This translates into a clean and pure taste that coffee lovers can savor guilt-free.
- Equator's flagship coffee. Super delicious.
- Beans may be slightly inconsistent in terms of roast level, resulting in a less uniform flavor.
- More expensive as a specialty coffee.
Equator Coffees takes pride in its commitment to sustainability and fair trade, and this shines through in the quality of its Tigerwalk Espresso. The main features of this coffee include its exquisite flavor notes of dark chocolate, cherry, and lemon that result in a smooth and velvety cup of joe.
The beans are carefully roasted to a medium-dark level, providing a balanced and full-bodied taste that is perfect for moka pot brewing. Its aroma fills up my kitchen with a full-bodied, chocolate-berry scent. Sooo good.
Who Should Buy This?
If you appreciate high-quality coffee and value sustainability, Equator Coffees’ Tigerwalk Espresso is an ideal choice for your moka pot. Its carefully sourced beans and environmentally friendly practices make it a lovely espresso blend.
Starbucks Decaf Sumatra, Whole Bean Coffee (1lb)
- Type: Whole-bean decaf
- Tasting notes: Earthy and herbal
- Roast: Dark
If you want to choose the best coffee beans for your Moka pot, but only drink decaf, fear not. This one’s for you: Starbucks Decaf Sumatra whole bean coffee is decaffeinated but still packs a punch in the flavor department.
- Whole Arabica coffee beans, not pre-ground.
- Well-known coffee brand with predictable and consistent standards.
- 1-lb portion is nice and big for the price.
- Herbal, earthy notes pair scrumptiously after a savory meal.
- Not as convenient as buying pre-ground.
This Starbucks dark roast coffee brew will give you the best bang for your buck because it’s not already ground. You can set your coffee grind to fine for the Moka but are also free to brew coffee at home with any of the other methods you want. Just have to change the grind size accordingly!
Now, as far as cons, it has to be said that a lot of people I know will buy pre-ground coffee beans for Moka pot brewing for two reasons: 1) It’s more convenient, and 2) Coffee in a Moka pot is usually so concentrated, people brew it as a base for drinks like a latte or cappuccino. This means that less-than-fresh is often not as important as convenience because you don’t notice the taste difference as much.
Who Should Buy This?
If you want a good decaf coffee for the Moka pot that’s whole bean—so you can enjoy it in any brewing method you like in addition to the Moka—Starbucks Decaf Sumatra is a winner.
Best Coffee For Moka Pot Buying Guide
A Moka pot is a popular brewing device that can produce a strong and flavorful cup of coffee. To ensure the best results, it is crucial to choose the right coffee for your Moka pot. In this buying guide, we will discuss the factors to consider when selecting coffee for a Moka pot and how to brew coffee using a Moka pot.
How to choose the best coffee for your Moka pot
When selecting coffee for your Moka pot, there are a few key factors to keep in mind.
Consider the roast level
The roast level of the coffee beans can greatly affect the taste and strength of the brewed coffee. For a Moka pot, it is recommended to choose coffee with a medium to dark roast. These roasts tend to bring out rich flavors and produce a robust cup of coffee.
Opt for whole bean coffee
Whole bean coffee is always a better option compared to pre-ground coffee. Whole beans retain their freshness and flavor for a longer period of time. It is recommended to grind the coffee beans right before brewing to preserve their aroma and taste.
Look for coffee specifically designed for Moka pots
Some coffees are specifically labeled and designed for brewing in Moka pots. These coffees are often finely ground and optimized for the brewing method of Moka pots. They can deliver the best results in terms of taste and consistency.
What are the best coffees for Moka pots?
There are several types of coffee that work well with Moka pots. Here are some options to consider:
Explore different coffee blends
Coffee blends, which combine different types of coffee beans, can offer complex and unique flavors. Look for blends that include Arabica beans, as they tend to produce a smoother and more balanced cup of coffee.
Try Italian coffee brands
Italian coffee brands are renowned for being roasted to perfection. They provide an intense coffee experience. Experiment with different Italian coffee brands to find the one that suits your taste preferences.
Consider pre-ground coffee options
If convenience is a priority, pre-ground coffee can be a suitable choice. Opt for high-quality, medium to dark roast pre-ground coffee that is specifically recommended for Moka pots. While it may not be as fresh as grinding whole beans, it can still deliver a satisfying cup of coffee.
How to brew coffee in a Moka pot
Brewing coffee in a Moka pot is relatively simple. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
Measure the coffee-to-water ratio
Start by measuring the desired amount of coffee and water. A general rule of thumb is to use about 1 to 1.5 tablespoons of coffee per 6 ounces of water. Adjust the ratio based on your personal preference for stronger or milder coffee.
Grind your coffee to the right consistency
For a Moka pot, the coffee should be ground to a medium-fine consistency, similar to table salt. Avoid grinding the coffee too fine, as it can lead to over-extraction and a bitter taste.
Follow any specific brewing instructions of your Moka pot
Each Moka pot may have slightly different brewing instructions, so refer to the user manual for specific guidance. In general, assemble the Moka pot, add water to the bottom chamber, fill the filter basket with coffee, and place it on top of the water chamber. Finally, screw on the top chamber tightly.
What are the different types of coffee roasts for Moka pots?
When it comes to coffee roasts, there are several options to choose from:
Medium roast coffee
Medium roast coffee is a popular choice for Moka pot brewing. It strikes a balance between the flavors of lighter and darker roasts, resulting in a smooth and well-rounded cup of coffee.
Dark roast coffee
Dark roast coffee beans are roasted for a longer period, resulting in rich and bold flavors. They can produce a strong and intense cup of coffee, perfect for those who prefer a robust taste.
Light roast coffee
Light roasted coffee beans are roasted for a shorter time, retaining more of their original characteristics. They can offer a brighter and more acidic taste profile, ideal for those who enjoy a more delicate cup of coffee.
How does a Moka pot brew coffee?
The brewing method of a Moka pot is unique and different from an espresso machine. Here are some key factors to note:
Understanding the Moka pot brewing method
A Moka pot consists of three chambers: the bottom chamber for water, the middle chamber with a filter basket for coffee, and the top chamber for collecting the brewed coffee. As the water in the bottom chamber heats up, it creates pressure that forces the water to rise through the coffee grounds and into the top chamber.
Differences between Moka pot and espresso machine
While both Moka pots and espresso machines produce concentrated coffee, there are notable differences in terms of brewing method and pressure. Moka pots use a lower pressure compared to espresso machines, resulting in a milder and less intense coffee.
Benefits of using a Moka pot for brewing coffee
Moka pots are affordable, easy to use, and portable. They can produce a strong cup of coffee that falls somewhere between a drip coffee and an espresso. They’re also versatile and can be used on various heat sources, including stovetops and camping stoves.
Final Thoughts on the Best Moka Pot Coffee
When choosing the best coffee for your Moka pot, consider the roast level, opt for whole bean coffee if you have a grinder, and experiment with different coffee blends and brands.
Each of the coffees on our list has a combination of these factors, so I’d encourage you to try them all, budget permitting. But for me, the best coffee for Moka pots overall is the Lavazza Crema e Gusto. Pick up a bag for yourself below👇
