If you’re a matcha enthusiast or simply curious about this vibrant green tea, London offers a diverse range of cafes where you can indulge in authentic, high-quality matcha drinks. From traditional Japanese tea houses to contemporary cafes putting a creative spin on matcha lattes and desserts, this list covers 16 standout spots across the city. Whether you prefer your matcha whisked traditionally or blended into innovative beverages, these cafes deliver unique experiences worth exploring.
1. Matcha Mylkbar
Located in Soho, Matcha Mylkbar is renowned for its dedication to ceremonial-grade matcha. They source their matcha directly from Japan’s Uji region, ensuring a rich, vibrant flavor. Their signature matcha latte is made with oat milk and sweetened lightly, striking a perfect balance for those seeking an authentic but approachable taste.
2. 131 Matcha
131 Matcha in Shoreditch prides itself on organic, single-origin matcha sourced from Japan’s Nishio region. Their minimalist cafe design complements the purity of their drinks, which range from classic matcha lattes to matcha-infused smoothies. The quality of their matcha powder is evident in the vivid green color and smooth, slightly grassy taste.
3. Nanashi
Nanashi, with locations in Soho and Covent Garden, blends French-Japanese fusion with matcha offerings. Their matcha latte is creamy and slightly sweetened with house-made syrups, but they also serve matcha with traditional wagashi sweets. It’s a great stop for those wanting a refined, contemporary matcha experience paired with light Japanese-inspired meals.
4. Kaffeine
Kaffeine, a specialty coffee and tea spot in Fitzrovia, offers a finely balanced matcha latte made with organic matcha powder. Known for their precise brewing methods, the staff here prepares matcha with care, resulting in a smooth texture and vibrant color. It’s an ideal place for matcha lovers who appreciate expert preparation in a cozy setting.
5. The Matcha Reserve
The Matcha Reserve in Marylebone is a dedicated matcha bar focusing solely on matcha-based drinks and desserts. Their menu includes iced matcha lattes, matcha smoothies, and even matcha affogatos, showcasing the versatility of the powder. They emphasize sustainability and source their matcha from organic farms, enhancing the clean, fresh flavor profile.
6. 26 Grains
While primarily known for its wholesome porridge bowls, 26 Grains in Neal’s Yard offers a standout matcha latte made with high-quality ceremonial matcha. The cafe’s commitment to natural ingredients means their matcha drinks are free from artificial additives, providing a pure taste experience. It’s a perfect spot for a nourishing breakfast or midday pick-me-up with matcha.
7. Waka Coffee
Waka Coffee in Shoreditch is a specialty coffee shop with a growing reputation for its matcha offerings. Their matcha latte uses vibrant, finely sifted powder and oat milk, creating a creamy yet earthy drink. The baristas here are skilled in latte art, often topping matcha drinks with intricate designs that add visual flair to the taste.
8. 93 Feet East
93 Feet East is a cafe and cultural space in Shoreditch that serves a strong, bold matcha latte made with traditionally whisked powder. Their approach is more minimalist and authentic, catering to purists who prefer an unsweetened, robust matcha profile. It’s also a lively venue that hosts events, making it a great place to enjoy matcha in a vibrant community setting.
9. Little Tokyo
Little Tokyo in Chinatown offers a genuine Japanese tea experience with matcha prepared using traditional tools. Their matcha is sourced from Kyoto and prepared fresh, with options to enjoy it as a hot tea or in a latte. The cafe also serves Japanese desserts like mochi and dorayaki, perfect companions to their matcha drinks.
10. Farm Girl
Farm Girl in Notting Hill is a trendy spot mixing health-conscious menus with premium matcha lattes. Their matcha is organic and blended with almond or oat milk, often accompanied by superfood toppings like turmeric or spirulina. It’s a favorite among wellness-focused Londoners looking for a nutritious and delicious matcha boost.
11. Roastworks
Though predominantly a coffee shop, Roastworks in Hackney has earned praise for its smooth and vibrant matcha latte. They use ceremonial-grade matcha powder, prepared with precision to avoid bitterness. This cafe’s industrial-chic atmosphere pairs well with their quality drinks, making it a popular spot for creatives.
12. Tea and Tattle
Tea and Tattle in Covent Garden is a tea-focused cafe offering a refined matcha latte using premium Japanese matcha. Their baristas whisk the matcha carefully to create a frothy, velvety drink with a delicate sweetness. The cafe’s relaxed ambiance and knowledgeable staff make it a great place to savor matcha and learn more about its cultural significance.
13. 26 Coffee Roasters
Known for their coffee, 26 Coffee Roasters in Bermondsey also serve an excellent matcha latte using organic matcha powder. Their drinks highlight the natural umami flavor of matcha, balanced with creamy milk alternatives like oat or soy. The minimalist design and friendly staff create an inviting environment for both coffee and tea lovers.
14. Kukicha
Kukicha in Camden specializes in Japanese teas, including a standout ceremonial matcha. Their matcha is whisked traditionally and served with a small sweet, creating an authentic tea ceremony experience. The cafe’s focus on education and quality makes it a top choice for those wanting to deepen their appreciation of matcha.
15. Paper and Cup
Paper and Cup in Shoreditch offers a strong matcha latte made with organic Japanese matcha and oat milk. Known for their specialty coffee, their matcha is an equally crafted drink, smooth and vibrant with a slight vegetal note. Their casual, artsy vibe makes it a great place to enjoy matcha while working or socializing.
16. MUG Coffee
MUG Coffee in Soho combines specialty coffee with premium matcha drinks, using ceremonial-grade matcha powder from Japan. Their matcha lattes are creamy yet earthy, often served alongside Japanese-inspired pastries. The intimate setting and attention to detail make it a hidden gem for matcha aficionados.
How to Choose
When selecting a cafe for matcha in London, several factors come into play. First, consider the quality and origin of the matcha powder: ceremonial-grade, organic matcha from regions like Uji or Nishio typically offers the best flavor and health benefits. Next, think about preparation style—some cafes whisk matcha traditionally, while others blend it into lattes with various milk alternatives and sweeteners. Your preference for authenticity versus innovation will guide this choice. Ambiance and additional offerings, such as Japanese sweets or wellness-focused menus, can also enhance your matcha experience. Lastly, consider the cafe’s commitment to sustainability and transparency in sourcing, which can reflect in the taste and ethical value of your drink.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is ceremonial-grade matcha?
It is the highest quality matcha, made from young tea leaves with a fine texture and vibrant color, intended for traditional tea ceremonies and direct consumption.
How does matcha differ from regular green tea?
Matcha is powdered whole tea leaves, so you consume the entire leaf, resulting in higher caffeine and antioxidant levels compared to brewed green tea.
Are matcha lattes healthy?
Yes, especially when made with high-quality matcha and natural milk alternatives. They provide antioxidants, vitamins, and a gentle caffeine boost without the acidity of coffee.
Can I get matcha drinks vegan or dairy-free?
Most cafes offer plant-based milk options like oat, almond, or soy milk, making matcha drinks suitable for vegan or dairy-free diets.
Why is my matcha latte bitter sometimes?
Bitterness usually results from overwhisking, using lower-grade matcha, or adding too little sweetener or milk. Proper preparation with high-quality matcha minimizes bitterness.
Final Thoughts
London’s matcha scene is vibrant and varied, catering to a wide range of tastes and preferences. Whether you seek the purity of a traditional whisked matcha or a creative latte enhanced with modern ingredients, the city’s cafes offer exceptional options. Exploring these 16 spots will deepen your appreciation for matcha’s rich flavors and cultural significance, making each cup a rewarding experience. So, whether you’re a seasoned matcha lover or a curious newcomer, these cafes provide excellent places to enjoy this green tea treasure.
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