What Is a Briki? How to Choose a Greek Coffee Pot

A briki (μπρίκι) is the small, long-handled pot used to make Greek coffee. It has a narrow neck and a wider base. Finely ground coffee, cold water and any sugar are heated together in it until the foam rises, then poured straight into small cups. The grounds go into the cup and settle at the bottom.

What a briki does

Greek coffee is not filtered. The coffee, water and sugar heat together in the briki, and the narrow neck helps the foam (kaimaki) build as the coffee warms. The long handle keeps your hand away from the heat and makes pouring easier. For step-by-step method, read how to make Greek coffee in a briki.

Choose the size by cups, not by name

Brikia are sold by capacity, often as the number of small cups they make. Check the stated volume rather than a size label like small, medium or large, because these vary between makers. Leave room at the top: the coffee foams as it heats, so a pot filled to the brim will boil over. Our guide to briki size for two cups works through the volume for a pair of servings.

• One cup: the smallest pots, for a single serving.
• Two cups: a common choice for a household.
• Three or more cups: useful when you host. You can also make several batches in a smaller pot so each cup keeps its foam.

Materials: copper, brass and stainless steel

Traditional brikia are often copper or brass. Stainless steel and enamel pots are also common. Copper and brass heat quickly and evenly. Stainless steel is easy to clean. Whatever you choose, check the maker’s guidance on the inner lining and on cleaning.

Check your hob

Induction hobs only heat pans with a magnetic base. Many copper and brass brikia will not work on induction unless the maker says they are induction-compatible. Gas and electric hobs work with most brikia. If you are unsure, check the product description before you buy.

How to use a briki

• Measure cold water with the cup you will serve in, and pour it into the briki.
• Add the coffee, plus sugar if you want it. Sugar goes in before heating, so ask each person how sweet they like it first.
• Stir until mixed, then heat gently without stirring again.
• Take the briki off the heat as the foam rises, before it boils over.
• Pour slowly, sharing the foam between the cups, and let the grounds settle before you drink.

We sell Greek coffee in a 6.8 oz (193 g) bag, ground for the briki. We do not sell a briki yet.

Briki: frequently asked questions