In Spanish, this stovetop espresso maker is commonly called a greca. You’ll also see terms like cafetera, cafetera cubana, and moka used to describe the same style of brewer. On many product listings, the wording blends languages—phrases such as “greca coffee maker,” “moka pot,” or “Cuban coffee maker” all refer to this traditional stovetop style. If you’re shopping, it can help to search both the English and Spanish names since retailers may use either or both. The names vary by region and listing, but the function is the same: brewing a strong, concentrated coffee on the stovetop.

A greca (also called a moka pot or stovetop espresso maker) brews strong, concentrated coffee on your stove. Water heats in the bottom chamber and passes through ground coffee into the upper chamber, creating an espresso-style brew. Many models note helpful details like a pressure relief valve and a built-in filter, and they come in aluminum or stainless steel. Most are suitable for gas and electric cooktops, while select stainless options indicate compatibility with induction surfaces. Sizes range from single-serve to larger 9–12 cup capacities. Flavor and strength can vary based on grind, heat level, and how you serve the coffee.

Most greca-style brewers are designed to use water in the lower chamber. Filling it with milk can lead to scorching, residue buildup, or clogging, and may not align with manufacturer guidance. For milk-based drinks, a practical approach is to brew coffee with water, then warm or froth milk separately and combine. If your model includes special features (for example, an electric base with overheating protection), it’s still advisable to consult the manual before experimenting. After preparing milk drinks, clean any parts that contact milk promptly to reduce residue. This method helps maintain performance while creating café-style beverages at home.

In English, it’s typically called a stovetop espresso maker or a moka pot. You may also see it described as a coffee percolator in listings, since the brewed coffee moves up through a filter into the top chamber. On product pages, these terms are often used interchangeably, sometimes alongside Spanish words like “greca” or “cafetera.” When browsing or searching, try all of these phrases to view the full selection. Regardless of the name, the design is intended to produce a rich, concentrated coffee that you can enjoy on its own or as a base for milk drinks.

Greca “cups” refer to espresso-size servings, not full mugs. Pick a size based on how many small pours you typically make at once. For example:

• 1-cup ≈ 1.7 oz
• 3-cup ≈ 5 oz
• 6-cup ≈ 10 oz
• 9-cup ≈ 15 oz
• 12-cup ≈ 20 oz

Capacities can vary by model, but listings usually include ounces or milliliters to help you compare. Choosing a slightly larger size can offer flexibility for guests or for diluting with hot water or milk. You can also use site filters to compare capacity, material (aluminum vs. stainless steel), and cooktop compatibility before deciding.