A French press, also known as a press pot, coffee plunger or cafetière, is a brewing device popularized by the French. Its operation is simple and it produces a stronger cup of coffee or tea than other devices.

The coffee grounds or loose tea leaves are in direct contact with the brewing water. Coffee and tea brewed with the French press captures more of the beverage's flavor, and essential oils in the case of coffee (which is often trapped in a traditional drip brew machine's paper filters). The coffee or tea is usually stronger, and because the used grounds or leaves remain in the drink after brewing, French pressed coffee or tea should be served immediately so as not to become bitter from over-extraction.