La Cafetiere Pisa Coffee Press Review
Andrew Bluett-Duncan
Director
La Cafetiere Pisa Cafetiere Review
Why We're Reviewing the La Cafetiere Pisa
Our 50-Year History with Cafetieres
Since Art of Living's founding in 1972, we've continuously stocked cafetieres—specifically Bodum, the Danish brand that dominated the French press market for decades. For over 40 years, Bodum was our automatic recommendation when customers asked about coffee presses.
That changed last year when supply chain difficulties made Bodum increasingly unreliable. Customers wanted cafetieres, and we couldn't provide them. This forced us to evaluate alternatives—and that's when we discovered the La Cafetiere Pisa range.
First Impressions
When I first examined the Pisa range, I lined up all six colours on my desk—Red, Pink, Navy, Green, Black, and Latte (a lovely putty cream colour). Having sold cafetieres for five decades, you develop an eye for quality details, and several things impressed me immediately:
- The beech wood handles show natural variation—each slightly different in grain and colour. Rather than suggesting poor quality control, this demonstrates genuine natural materials and craftsmanship. Each handle has an individual, handmade look which is actually quite pleasant.
- The included spare mesh filter was an unexpected bonus. Mesh filters eventually wear out, and having a spare ready means you're never caught without coffee whilst sourcing replacements. This is a thoughtful touch Bodum never provided.
- The coffee scoop included is another nice extra—helpful for consistent measurements.
- The colour palette offers subtle, sophisticated options that coordinate beautifully with premium kitchenware like Le Creuset.
After 52 years in business, I've learned that details like included spares and natural material variations indicate a manufacturer that understands their product. La Cafetiere demonstrated this understanding, and we were happy to add the Pisa to our range.
How It Compares to Bodum
A Fair Comparison After Decades with Bodum
After stocking Bodum for over 40 years, we're uniquely positioned to compare. Here's our honest assessment:
| Feature | La Cafetiere Pisa | Bodum Chambord |
|---|---|---|
| Glass Type | Borosilicate (thermal shock resistant) | Borosilicate |
| Mesh Material | Rust-resistant stainless steel | Stainless steel |
| Handle Material | Natural beech wood | Typically plastic or metal |
| Spare Mesh Included | Yes ✓ | No ✗ |
| Coffee Scoop Included | Yes ✓ | No ✗ |
| Colour Options | 6 sophisticated colours | Limited (primarily chrome) |
| Price (8 cup) | £30-35 | £35-45 |
| Replacement Parts | Available | Available |
Honest Assessment
Where Pisa Wins:
- Included spare mesh filter (£8-10 value) means you're never without coffee
- Natural wood handles offer warmer aesthetic than plastic alternatives
- Six colour options coordinate with premium kitchenware
- Lower price point without compromising on quality
- Coffee scoop included
Where They're Equal:
- Coffee brewing quality—both produce excellent French press coffee
- Borosilicate glass quality and thermal shock resistance
- Mesh filter effectiveness
- Replacement part availability
Our Conclusion: The Pisa matches Bodum's quality whilst offering genuine advantages. After decades recommending Bodum, we're comfortable recommending the Pisa as an excellent alternative—and in some ways, an improvement.
Construction & Materials
What Makes Quality
After 52 years evaluating kitchenware, we've learned to recognize quality construction. Here's what stands out about the Pisa:
Borosilicate Glass Beaker
The glass beaker is made from borosilicate glass—the same laboratory-grade glass used in scientific equipment. This matters because borosilicate glass resists thermal shock, meaning you can pour boiling water directly into the beaker without risk of cracking.
Standard soda-lime glass (used in budget cafetieres) expands and contracts rapidly with temperature changes and can crack when exposed to boiling water. Borosilicate glass has approximately one-third the thermal expansion, making it far more durable for daily use with very hot water.
Rust-Resistant Stainless Steel Mesh
The fine mesh filter and holder are made from rust-resistant stainless steel. This is important because ordinary steel can develop rust spots when repeatedly exposed to water and coffee oils. The rust-resistant steel maintains its appearance and performance over time.
The fine mesh prevents coffee grounds from passing through whilst allowing the essential oils and flavours to remain in your coffee—this is what gives cafetiere coffee its characteristic full body.
Natural Beech Wood Handles
Each handle is made from natural beech wood, and as I mentioned, they show individual variation in grain and colour. This isn't a defect—it's proof of authentic natural materials rather than plastic imitation.
The upside-down L shape provides comfortable grip for both right and left-handed users, keeps your hand away from the hot glass, and maintains stability when pouring.
Embossed Plunger
The plunger features embossed La Cafetière branding, adding a premium feel. The plunger disassembles easily for thorough cleaning—you can unscrew the mesh filter to clean between the layers where coffee oils accumulate.
Understanding Cafetiere Coffee
How French Press Coffee Works
The Brewing Method
Cafetieres use an immersion brewing method—coffee grounds steep directly in hot water, then you press a mesh filter through the mixture to separate grounds from liquid. This differs from drip coffee where water passes through grounds briefly, or espresso where pressurized water forces through finely ground coffee.
The Caffeine Question
One thing to remember about cafetiere coffee: the longer you steep coffee grounds in water, the greater the amount of caffeine extracted. This is why espresso, despite its strong flavour, typically contains only 7-8% caffeine extraction. Coffee made in a cafetiere can extract up to 70% of available caffeine.
So depending on your caffeine tolerance, it may be best not to leave your coffee steeping for extended periods. The standard 4-minute steep is optimal for flavour without excessive caffeine—shorter for less caffeine, longer for more (though extended steeping also increases bitterness).
Brewing Perfect Coffee
Step 1: Use Coarse Ground Coffee
This is crucial. Coarse ground coffee—similar in texture to breadcrumbs or sea salt—works best in cafetieres. Fine ground coffee (like espresso grind) will pass through the mesh filter, creating sediment in your cup. Most supermarket pre-ground coffee is too fine for cafetieres. Buy whole beans and grind them coarse, or ask your coffee shop to grind specifically for French press.
Step 2: Measure Your Coffee
Use approximately one rounded tablespoon (7-10g) of ground coffee per cup. The included scoop helps with consistent measurements. For the 3 cup size (350ml), use 3 tablespoons. For the 8 cup size (1000ml), use 8 tablespoons. Adjust to taste—less for milder coffee, more for stronger.
Step 3: Add Water Just Off the Boil
Pour water that's just stopped boiling (95-96°C) over the grounds. The borosilicate glass handles this safely without thermal shock. Don't fill to the very top—leave space for the plunger assembly.
Step 4: Stir and Steep
Stir once to ensure all grounds contact water, then place the plunger on top without pressing. This keeps heat in. Let steep for 4 minutes—this is the sweet spot for flavour extraction without over-extraction that causes bitterness.
Step 5: Press Slowly
After 4 minutes, press the plunger down slowly and steadily—taking 15-20 seconds. Pressing too quickly forces fine particles through the mesh. Slow pressing produces cleaner coffee.
Step 6: Pour Immediately
Pour coffee into cups straight away. Leaving coffee sitting on the grounds continues extraction, increasing bitterness. If not drinking all immediately, transfer to a thermal carafe.
Size Selection: 3 Cup vs 8 Cup
La Cafetiere offers the Pisa in two sizes, both available in all six colours:
3 Cup (350ml)
Realistic capacity: 1-2 generous mugs or 2-3 smaller cups
Best for: Solo coffee drinkers, couples where one person drinks significantly more, those with limited counter space, smaller households
8 Cup (1000ml / 1L)
Realistic capacity: 3-4 generous mugs or 5-6 standard cups
Best for: Families, multiple coffee drinkers, entertaining, those who drink 2-3 mugs in a morning, batch brewing
Our Recommendation
For most households, we suggest the 8 cup. It's more versatile—you can make smaller amounts in a larger cafetiere, but you can't make larger amounts in a smaller one. The weight difference isn't significant enough to be a concern for most users.
Only choose the 3 cup if you're definitively a solo drinker with no plans to entertain or batch brew.
The Colours: Making Your Choice
Six Colours, Each with Character
The six colours—Black, Green, Latte, Navy, Pink, and Red—all look very good lined up together. Here's our view on each:
Black - The Classic
Best for: Minimalist kitchens, modern aesthetics, those wanting versatility
Black works everywhere and never looks wrong. It's the safe choice, though perhaps the least interesting. If you're uncertain, choose Black—you won't regret it.
Green - Fresh and Lively
Best for: Adding a pop of colour without boldness, coordinating with natural elements
A sophisticated, deep green—not bright or neon. It brings energy to morning coffee without being aggressive. Pairs beautifully with natural wood elements.
Latte - Subtle Sophistication
Best for: Neutral kitchens, understated elegance, Scandinavian aesthetics
Described as "putty cream," this is the quietest colour option. It adds warmth that black can't provide whilst maintaining subtlety. Elegant and refined.
Navy - Maritime Depth
Best for: Traditional kitchens, blue-and-white schemes, coastal themes
A sophisticated deep blue with gravitas. Coordinates beautifully with Le Creuset's Azure or Deep Teal pieces. Colour with maturity rather than playfulness.
Pink - Contemporary Warmth
Best for: Modern aesthetics, adding softness, contemporary colour palettes
A sophisticated, muted pink—not bubblegum. Works in adult kitchens and adds unexpected warmth. Coordinates with copper accents beautifully.
Red - Bold Statement
Best for: Those who love colour, Le Creuset Cerise owners, making a statement
A true, bold cherry red. This is for people who want their cafetiere to demand attention. If you're going red, commit to it—this isn't subtle.
Coordinating with Le Creuset
If you own Le Creuset cookware, consider coordinating colours:
- Navy Pisa pairs beautifully with Le Creuset Azure or Deep Teal
- Red Pisa coordinates with Le Creuset Cerise
- Green Pisa works with Le Creuset Bamboo
- Latte or Black complement any Le Creuset colour
Value Assessment
Is the Pisa Worth £30-35?
At £30-35 (depending on size and colour), the Pisa sits between budget alternatives (£15-25) and premium options (£45-60). Let's examine the value proposition:
What You're Actually Getting
Spare mesh filter: £8-10 value (extends useful life significantly)
Coffee scoop: £3 value (convenient for consistent measurements)
Natural materials: Beech wood handles rather than plastic
Replacement parts available: Both glass beaker and mesh filters
Total package value: £41-48 worth of items for £30-35
Long-Term Value
The included spare mesh extends useful life. When the original mesh wears out (typically after 12-24 months depending on use), you have a replacement ready. When that wears out, replacement meshes cost approximately £8.
The glass beaker is also replaceable. If you accidentally break it (it happens), you purchase a replacement beaker for £10-15 rather than an entirely new £35 cafetiere. This replaceability extends the product's lifespan significantly—it's serviceable rather than disposable.
Compared to Budget Alternatives
Budget cafetieres (£15-25) typically use:
- Standard glass that cracks easily from thermal shock
- Ordinary steel mesh that can rust within months
- No spare mesh included
- No replacement parts available—when something breaks, the entire unit becomes waste
The £10-15 premium for the Pisa buys materials and construction that justify the cost within the first year. Borosilicate glass alone is worth the difference—it won't crack from boiling water like standard glass.
Compared to Premium Options
Premium cafetieres (£45-60+) offer:
- Similar materials to the Pisa (borosilicate glass, stainless steel mesh)
- Brand prestige (matters to some)
- Sometimes double-walled thermal construction (different product category)
For most users, the Pisa delivers 90% of premium performance at 60% of the cost. The £15-25 you save can buy better coffee beans—where investment genuinely affects daily quality.
Our Conclusion
At £30-35, the Pisa represents excellent value. The quality materials, included extras, and replaceability justify the modest premium over budget alternatives. Meanwhile, the performance matches more expensive options without premium pricing. For quality-conscious coffee drinkers on realistic budgets, it's the sweet spot.
What We Appreciate
- Included spare mesh filter—genuinely useful extra
- Natural beech wood handles with individual character
- Six sophisticated colour options
- Borosilicate glass resists thermal shock
- Rust-resistant stainless steel maintains appearance
- Replacement parts available for longevity
- Excellent value for quality delivered
- Coffee scoop included for consistent brewing
- Disassembles for thorough cleaning
- Smooth plunger action
Considerations
- Wooden handle benefits from hand-washing (dishwasher can dull finish)
- Plunger disassembly not immediately intuitive
- Natural sediment in coffee (inherent to all cafetieres)
- Colour availability may vary by retailer
- No option larger than 8 cup/1L
- Heavier than all-plastic alternatives
Practical Advice
Care and Maintenance
Daily Cleaning
After use, empty grounds into compost or bin (don't wash down the sink—they clog drains). The glass beaker is dishwasher safe. However, we recommend hand-washing the plunger assembly and avoiding submerging the wooden handle to preserve its appearance.
For thorough cleaning, unscrew the mesh filter from the plunger rod. This allows you to clean between the mesh layers where coffee oils accumulate. Hand wash these components in hot soapy water, rinse thoroughly, and dry.
Deep Cleaning for Stubborn Stains
If coffee stains build up inside the glass beaker, fill with warm water and add 2-3 tablespoons of bicarbonate of soda. Let soak for 15-20 minutes, then wash as usual. For particularly stubborn stains, you can use Barkeeper's Friend or a paste of bicarbonate of soda and water applied gently with a soft sponge.
Replacing the Mesh Filter
Use the included spare mesh when the original shows wear—signs include coffee grounds passing through more frequently, visible tears or stretching, or difficulty achieving clean coffee. Replacement meshes are also available separately when you've used both the original and spare.
Replacing the Glass Beaker
If you break the glass beaker, replacement beakers are available separately. This extends the cafetiere's lifespan—you replace only the broken glass rather than the entire unit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Questions About the Pisa
How does this compare to Bodum?
After stocking Bodum for over 40 years, we can say confidently: the Pisa matches Bodum's quality. The coffee brewing performance is equivalent, materials are comparable, and build quality is excellent. The Pisa offers advantages Bodum doesn't—included spare mesh, coffee scoop, natural wood handles, and six colour options—whilst costing less. For practical coffee making, the Pisa equals or exceeds Bodum.
Why do the wooden handles look slightly different?
Each beech wood handle shows natural grain variation—this is intentional and desirable. Some handles are darker, some lighter; grain patterns differ. This proves La Cafetiere uses genuine natural wood rather than plastic imitation. The variation is character, not inconsistency. If you ordered two Pisas, the handles would differ slightly—this makes each cafetiere unique.
Which size should I choose?
For most households, we recommend the 8 cup (1000ml). It's more versatile—you can make smaller amounts in a larger cafetiere, but you can't make larger amounts in a smaller one. Only choose the 3 cup (350ml) if you're definitively a solo coffee drinker with no plans to entertain.
Can I use this for tea?
Yes, cafetieres work excellently for loose leaf tea. Add your tea leaves, pour water at the appropriate temperature, steep for 3-5 minutes depending on tea type, then press the plunger. The fine mesh prevents leaves from entering your cup. Clean thoroughly between coffee and tea use to prevent flavour transfer.
How do I prevent grounds in my coffee?
Three factors control sediment: First, use coarse ground coffee—like breadcrumbs or sea salt texture. Fine ground passes through any mesh. Second, press slowly over 15-20 seconds rather than quickly. Third, pour immediately after pressing. Some sediment at the bottom of your cup is normal for cafetiere coffee—simply don't drink the last sip.
Is the glass dishwasher safe?
Yes, the glass beaker is dishwasher safe. However, we recommend hand-washing the plunger assembly and avoiding submerging the wooden handle. The dishwasher can dull the wood finish over time, though the glass remains unaffected.
Can I buy replacement parts?
Yes, both glass beakers and mesh filters are available separately. This is crucial for longevity—when you break the glass or wear out the mesh, you replace only that component rather than the entire cafetiere. We stock spare meshes, and replacement beakers are available upon request.
Which colour should I choose?
Choose what makes you happy. For timelessness and versatility, choose Black or Latte. For personality and vibrancy, choose Red, Pink, Green, or Navy. If you own Le Creuset cookware, consider coordinating colours—Navy with Azure, Red with Cerise, Green with Bamboo. All colours are equally functional.
Does this make coffee as good as expensive machines?
For certain coffee styles, yes. A cafetiere excels at full-bodied, aromatic coffee where oils and subtle flavours remain in the cup. For black coffee or coffee with milk, a quality cafetiere produces coffee rivalling machines costing £200-300. What it can't do: espresso, true cappuccinos, or highly consistent automated extraction. For immersion-brewed coffee enjoyed black or with milk, the Pisa delivers excellent results at a fraction of machine costs.
Who Should Buy the La Cafetiere Pisa?
Our Recommendation
The Pisa is ideal if you:
- Appreciate quality coffee without investing in expensive machines
- Value durable, well-made products over disposable alternatives
- Want aesthetics that complement premium kitchenware
- Prefer natural materials (wood, glass) over all-plastic construction
- Previously owned budget cafetieres that failed quickly
- Are replacing a Bodum and want equivalent quality
- Need a thoughtful gift for coffee lovers
Consider alternatives if you:
- Want completely dishwasher-safe components including handles
- Need capacity larger than 1L/8 cup
- Strongly prefer all-metal construction
- Are on an extremely tight budget (though we'd suggest saving the extra £10-15)
Final Verdict
Our Honest Recommendation
After stocking Bodum cafetieres for over 40 years, we didn't make the decision to stock La Cafetiere Pisa lightly. We were forced into it by supply difficulties, but what we found exceeded expectations.
The Pisa's quality construction, thoughtful extras (spare mesh and scoop), attractive colour range, and competitive pricing make it an excellent choice for anyone seeking a reliable cafetiere. The borosilicate glass, rust-resistant stainless steel, and natural beech wood deliver genuine quality rather than just marketing claims.
At £30-35, it occupies a value sweet spot—premium enough to use quality materials that last, affordable enough to be accessible to most coffee drinkers. The included spare mesh alone saves £8-10 and ensures you're never without coffee whilst sourcing replacements.
We're comfortable recommending the La Cafetiere Pisa as a worthy successor to the Bodum presses we sold for decades. For quality-conscious coffee drinkers seeking value, it's an excellent choice.
Shop La Cafetiere Pisa Range Questions? Contact UsAbout This Review
Reviewer: Art of Living Cookshop, with over 52 years experience selling cafetieres and coffee equipment since 1972
Why We Stock It: Supply difficulties with Bodum (our brand of choice for 40+ years) forced us to find alternatives. The La Cafetiere Pisa impressed us with its quality construction, thoughtful extras, and excellent value.
Disclosure: We stock and sell La Cafetiere products, including the Pisa range. This review reflects our genuine assessment based on decades of experience with cafetieres. Our 52-year reputation depends on honest recommendations that serve our customers well.
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