Abstract: There is disclosed a machine for preparing so called "espresso" coffee which is particularly suitable for household use. The machine comprises a water container for heating a quantity of water which is then caused to pass under high pressure through a layer of powdered coffee arranged in a percolating chamber. Before reaching the percolating chamber the hot water passes through a coiled tube which is immersed in a cooling fluid separated from the hot water, thus causing a controlled cooling of the hot water passing in the coiled tube. Between the container for the water to be heated and the chamber in which the cooling fluid is arranged there is provided a partition wall having the purpose of limiting heat transfer between the water container and the cooling chamber.