Toggle Nav
0333 355 0535
My Account
Login Register Now
Shopping Cart
Advanced Search

£7.49 / Each

Box of 36

main product photo
33% OFF

Jarvis

Catering Specialist
Reset

Hello! 👋

Hi there, I'm Jarvis! I see you're looking at the Terracotta Low Empire Cups | Craft Pottery Cups | 85ml Capacity | Steelite V153. How can I help you with the technical specs or suitability for your business today?

Jarvis is an AI assistant and may occasionally provide incorrect details. To ensure your equipment fits and functions perfectly, we recommend verifying all critical specifications-including dimensions, power requirements, and compatibility-with our expert sales team prior to purchase.For orders or stock, call 0333 355 0535

How can we help? Choose an option below

Select an option to get started. We're here to help!

Product Questions

Specs, suitability, features & comparisons

Other Enquiries

Delivery, warranty, invoices & customer service

Product questions are answered instantly. Our support team typically responds within minutes.

Steelite In Stock

Terracotta Low Empire Cups | Craft Pottery Cups | 85ml Capacity | Steelite V153

SKU: V153
£269.52 / exc vat
£323.42/ inc vat
  • Alumina Vitrified Ceramic
  • Thermal Shock Resistance
  • Superior Heat Retention
  • Glaze Damage Resistance

Order by 12pm

Price Match

UK Warehouse

Have a quick question about this product?
Ask instantly →
Features Overview Specifications Case Study Reviews Installation Buying Guide FAQ

Product Overview

Thinking of adding a splash of rustic warmth to your coffee service? These Steelite V153 terracotta low empire cups offer that perfect blend of handcrafted charm and  professional grit. They bring an earthy, authentic feel to the table, making every espresso feel a little more special.

Designed for the demanding environment of a commercial setting, they're a brilliant choice for artisan coffee shops, Mediterranean-style bistros, and  hotels aiming for a memorable guest experience. But they're not just about looks; crafted from incredibly tough alumina vitrified ceramic, they are built to withstand the daily hustle and  bustle of a busy establishment, resisting chips and  stains with ease.

With a classic 85ml capacity, these cups are the ideal vessel for serving a rich, aromatic espresso, a macchiato, or even a creative mini-dessert. They provide that final, thoughtful touch that elevates your service and  shows your customers you care about the details.

Key Features and  Benefits

  • Alumina Vitrified Ceramic: Makes them incredibly strong and  resistant to chipping.
  • Thermal Shock Resistance: Go from a hot dishwasher to a cold counter without cracking.
  • Superior Heat Retention: Keeps your customer's espresso perfectly hot for longer.
  • Glaze Damage Resistance: The beautiful terracotta finish stays pristine, wash after wash.
  • Stain Resistance: Easily shrugs off stubborn coffee and  tea stains.
  • Dishwasher Safe: Allows for quick, hygienic cleaning during busy services.
  • Microwave & Oven Safe: Offers brilliant versatility for reheating or baking small treats.
  • 85ml Capacity: The perfect professional size for serving a classic espresso.

Technical Specifications

  • Brand: Steelite
  • SKU: V153
  • Colour: Terracotta
  • Box Quantity: 36
  • Capacity: 85ml / 3oz
  • Shape: Round
  • Material: Alumina vitrified ceramic
  • Features: Oven Safe, Freezer Safe, Microwave Safe, Dishwasher Safe

Expert Review and  Insights

Steelite's Performance range is a firm favourite for a reason. These Empire cups blend that sought-after, craft pottery aesthetic with the resilience professional kitchens demand. The terracotta finish feels warm and  inviting, making them a fantastic choice for any venue wanting to create a cosy, memorable experience for their guests.

Emily Hart – Tableware Expert View Profile →

  • Top-Tier Feel: The cups have a substantial, quality weight without being clunky.
  • Niche Size: Their 85ml size is perfect for espresso, but less versatile for larger drinks.

Case Study: Real Business, Real Results

The Olive Branch, a popular Greek taverna in Cardiff, was looking to replace its generic white espresso cups to better match its authentic, rustic interior.

"We needed something that looked the part but could survive our incredibly busy weekends and  a high-speed dishwasher. These craft pottery espresso cups from Steelite were spot on. They look fantastic and  are tough as anything. Our customers love them."

Michael Georgiou – Proprietor

Since introducing the cups, The Olive Branch has seen a marked improvement in tableware durability, reporting zero chips or breakages in the first three months of heavy commercial use.

Installation and  Maintenance Guide

Setting It Up

  • Give the cups a thorough wash in a commercial dishwasher before their first use to ensure they are pristine.
  • When stacking, place them gently to protect the beautiful terracotta glaze from scuffs.
  • Their 85ml capacity is perfectly suited for standard double espresso shots from most commercial machines.

Keeping It Going

  • These cups are fully commercial dishwasher safe for fast and  hygienic turnarounds.
  • The high-quality, stain-resistant glaze means coffee and  tea marks wash away with ease.
  • Avoid using abrasive metal scourers to maintain the smooth, unblemished finish for years to come.
  • Regularly check for any accidental chips to ensure a safe and  professional service.

Buying Guide: Choosing the Right Commercial Cups

Not sure which cups are right for your establishment? Here are a few things to keep in mind.

Match Your Vibe

Does your crockery reflect your brand? These craft pottery espresso cups suit rustic, artisan, or Mediterranean themes perfectly.

Capacity is Key

An 85ml cup is ideal for espressos and  macchiatos. For lattes or Americanos, you'll need to browse for larger sizes.

Durability First

Always look for vitrified ceramic or porcelain. It's purpose-built to withstand thermal shock and  the rigours of a professional kitchen.

Functionality Matters

Are they stackable? Microwave and  oven safe? These features add huge value and  versatility in a busy environment.

Think in Bulk

Consider your daily covers and  potential breakage rates. Buying in full box quantities like this pack of 36 is often far more cost-effective.

See all Craft Tableware

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Are these cups easily stackable?

A: Yes, their low empire shape allows for stable stacking, which is a great space-saver on shelves or on top of your coffee machine.

Q: What exactly does 'vitrified' mean for a cup?

A: It means the ceramic is fired at an incredibly high temperature, making it non-porous. This prevents it from absorbing moisture or flavours and  makes it much stronger.

Q: Can I really bake small desserts in them?

A: Absolutely. Being oven-safe makes them perfect for individual portions of things like crème brûlée, chocolate pots, or mini cheesecakes.

Q: Is the terracotta a glaze or the actual material colour?

A: It's a durable, coloured glaze applied over the tough alumina vitrified ceramic body, ensuring a consistent and  resilient finish.

Q: Will the colour fade after many cycles in a commercial dishwasher?

A: No, the high-quality glaze is engineered to resist fading from commercial detergents and  high wash temperatures.

Q: What is the exact capacity in ounces?

A: The 85ml capacity is equivalent to approximately 3 fluid ounces, ideal for a standard double espresso.

Q: Do they feel heavy or light?

A: They have a pleasant, sturdy weight that communicates quality to the customer, without being too heavy for staff to carry in multiples.

Q: Are they cool enough to hold when filled with hot espresso?

A: The thick ceramic provides good insulation, keeping the coffee hot while ensuring the outside of the cup is warm but comfortable to hold.

What Customers Are Saying

"Absolutely brilliant cups. They look fantastic and  are tough as old boots. Perfect for our busy bistro and  they get compliments all the time."

Chloe B. – Bistro Owner, Brighton

"Love the terracotta colour, it really makes our espressos pop. They retain heat really well which our customers appreciate."

Ben T. – The Daily Grind, Leeds

"We bought these for serving small panna cotta desserts and  they're a hit! Being oven and  freezer safe is a huge plus for kitchen workflow."

Isabella R. – Italian Restaurant, Edinburgh

Add Review

The Steelite Advantage: An Investment in Reliability

Choosing Steelite for your establishment goes far beyond just buying crockery; it's a strategic investment in operational consistency and  brand reputation. With a rich history of engineering tableware specifically for the hospitality sector, Steelite understands that durability isn't just a feature, it's a necessity. Their 'Performance' collection, which these terracotta cups are part of, is designed from the ground up to minimise replacements and  maximise its service life. This translates to fewer chips, less staining, and  a consistently professional presentation on your tables, service after service. For a business owner, this means lower long-term costs, less stock shrinkage, and  the vital peace of mind that your tableware can handle the pressure of your busiest day. It is this unwavering commitment to real-world performance that makes Steelite a trusted partner in professional kitchens across the UK and  beyond.

Explore more from Steelite

What is 'Alumina Vitrified Ceramic' and  Why Does It Matter?

Ever wondered what makes a 'commercial' cup different from the one in your cupboard at home? It's often down to something called 'alumina vitrified ceramic'. Think of it like a secret recipe for toughness. 'Vitrified' means the ceramic has been fired at an extremely high temperature until it becomes non-porous and  glass-like – so it won't absorb water, flavours, or odours. Then, 'alumina' is added to the clay mix. It’s a bit like adding reinforcing steel to concrete; it dramatically increases the material's strength and  resistance to chipping. For your business, this means a beautiful cup that can handle the daily chaos of a busy café – from countless dishwasher cycles to the odd knock on the counter – while still looking fantastic.

Who Should Buy This?

  • Artisan Coffee Shops: Perfect for serving signature single or double espressos with an authentic, handcrafted feel.
  • Mediterranean Restaurants: Beautifully complements rustic decor and  enhances the presentation of post-dinner coffees or small desserts.
  • Boutique Hotels: Adds a touch of earthy elegance to the breakfast service or in-room coffee offering.
  • Farm Shops & Cafés: The craft pottery style fits perfectly with a focus on local, rustic, and  quality produce.
Find equipment tailored to your type of business:

Shop for Cafes Shop for Hotels Shop for Restaurants View All Business Types

You Might Also Like

Why Choose EasyEquipment?

  • Trusted for 50+ Years

    We've been kitting out UK kitchens for half a century—we know our onions.

  • Speedy & Free Delivery

    Get your gear fast with free UK mainland delivery, often as soon as the next day.

  • Price Match Promise

    Find it for less elsewhere? We'll match the price, no quibbles or fuss.

  • Real UK Support

    Got a question? Our friendly, UK-based team is on the phone, ready to help you out.

Ready to Order?

Bring that perfect rustic touch to your tables – order your Steelite V153 Terracotta Low Empire Cups today for fast, simple delivery across the UK.

Add to Cart Call Us for Advice

Customer Reviews

How do you rate this product?

Your voice makes a difference! We value your honest feedback and would love to hear about your experience with our products.

Please take a moment to leave a review and help us grow together.