If real matcha “tastes like grass,” then consider us cows when it comes to how our matcha girls keep sipping it, LOL. Honestly, there’s definitely something special about it.
That
A girl relishes some peaceful moments sipping matcha at a charmingly decorated café. Wanting to enjoy authentic Japanese green tea?
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Take a look at this selection of cafes across the Metro known for their outstanding matcha offerings:
Tsujiri
Location: Floor 2, S Maison at The Conrad, Pasay City; Ground floor entrance, SM Aura, Taguig City; Floor 2, The Podium, Ortigas, Mandaluyong City; Floor 2, Greenbelt 5, Makati City; Unit R3, Power Plant Mall, Rockwell Center, Makati City; Floor 2, SM City Clark, Pampanga
Although they launched their initial branch in Metro Manila way back in 2017—seven long years prior—they’ve stayed prominent among matcha enthusiasts. This isn’t surprising when you consider the excellence of Tsujiri’s matcha drinks. The company was established in 1860 by
Riemon Tsuji
, who enhanced the techniques for cultivating
gyokuro
(high-grade Japanese green tea) using a technique that continues to be employed by various teahouses even today.
Today, you can savor this premium matcha via Tsujiri’s extensive range—should you prefer your matcha in its most authentic state, treat yourself to a comforting Signature O-Matcha, made from ceremonial-grade matcha, or opt for a revitalizing Iced Yuzu O-Matcha instead. Known equally for their visually appealing matcha treats, Tsujiri offers delights such as the layered Tsujiri Sundae.
genmai
(brown rice crispies), matcha soft serve, red bean, chestnut, and
shiratama dango
(mochi balls).
Matcha Mama
Location: B1 Mitsukoshi Fresh, Mitsukoshi Mall, Taguig City; Level 4, Food on Four at SM Aura, Taguig City (offering grab-and-go bottles exclusively); 2nd Floor, WPL Building, Katipunan Avenue, Quezon City
Matcha Mama doesn’t just offer premium matcha sourced from Uji, Japan; they also boast an adorable pink decor perfect for those who love something dainty and cute. Relax in their cozy space on White Plains Road, which mirrors their sleek minimalistic design featuring shades of green and pink, or pick up bottles of their popular beverages such as Matcha Latte, Spanish Matcha Latte, or Lavender Matcha Latte at their takeaway station inside Mitsukoshi Mall. Additionally, Matcha Mama builds a community around matcha enthusiasts through events like pop-up shops, gatherings, and themed workshops including matcha-making sessions and tastings.
Shizu Matcha Bar
Location: 9 General Tinio, Morning Breeze Subdivision, Caloocan City
The Shizu Matcha Bar offers an ideal setting for a tranquil solo rendezvous over a cup of matcha, thanks to its pristine and welcoming Japanese-themed decor. Described as a “modern teahouse,” this spot provides traditional matcha beverages along with innovative mixes such as the Cold Whisk Dango, featuring matcha blended into cold milk and paired with a dango skewer.
dango
or sticky rice dumplings, or the revitalizing Matcha Tonic which includes matcha,
yuzu
, along with soda water. These places often hold workshops and pop-up events where you can back local artists.
Matchanese
Address: Ground Floor, The Block at SM North, Quezon City
Initially known for offering various matcha blends online, Matchanese recently opened a brick-and-mortar store at SM North EDSA and plans to expand further. For those new to matcha, their signature Matchanese Latte offers customization options ranging from Level 1 to 5, allowing adjustments based on preference for both intensity and sweetness. Additionally, customers have the option to replace regular cow’s milk with alternatives such as oat or coconut varieties. If you prefer a sweeter and creamier experience, try their Spanish Matchanese Latte instead. Besides beverages, they sell merchandise including t-shirts emblazoned with phrases like “That Matcha Vibe” and “Powered by Matcha,” ideal for expressing one’s affinity towards Japanese green tea culture.
ITO
Address: Aguirre Street, Legaspi Village, Makati City (by reservation only)
If you’re searching for an exclusive experience with fellow matcha enthusiasts, book a tea ceremony at ITO. Sessions last about an hour and resemble a tasting menu centered exclusively around Japanese teas. You can choose from two options: The Japanese Tea Series includes Matcha Usucha, Hojicha Tea Soda, a seasonal tea, and a small bite; whereas the Matcha Series 2.0 offers Matcha Usucha, Matcha Soda, Matcha Ice Cream, along with a treat. Given the limited space—ITOs hosts up to five guests in afternoons and six in evenings—the events remain quite personal. And let’s not forget the stylishly minimalistic decor of ITO, perfect fodder for those Instagram moments.
Matcha Later
Address: 5385 Don Pedro Street, Poblacion, Makati City
Seek out their adorable sleeping dog emblem, and you’ll discover Match Later. A relatively recent addition to the matcha world, Matcha Later offers a serene escape from the hustle of Makati City. Dubbed as a “matcha slow bar,” this place focuses on high-quality ceremonial-grade matcha and top-tier hojicha sourced from Kyoto, Japan. These ingredients form the base for various beverages and confections they serve. For instance, try the Kumo available in both matcha and hojicha flavors; it’s a soothing beverage featuring frothy warmed milk. Alternatively, satisfy your dessert craving with the Caramiso—a chilled matcha or hojicha latte topped with caramel and crowned by a layer of miso-infused creamy foam. Should you prefer richer fare, opt for the Kyoto-Style Tiramisu offered here under names like Matchamisu or Hojichamisu, boasting alternating layers of ladyfinger biscuits dipped in either matcha or hojicha along with mascarpone custard cream.
The Matcha Tokyo
Location: Ground Floor, Mitsukoshi Mall, Taguig City; Ground Floor, Gateway 2, Cubao, Quezon City; Ground Floor, Opus Mall, Bridgetowne, Pasig City; Ground Floor, Ayala Malls Vertis North, Quezon City
In November 2022, The Matcha Tokyo inaugurated its inaugural branch in Metro Manila, swiftly gaining popularity amongst aficionados of matcha. Originating from Japan, this international label boasts multiple outlets across Japan and various Asian cities such as Shanghai, Hong Kong, Bangkok, Dubai, and now Manila. For an authentic experience of their entirely organic matcha sourced directly from their farms, try out the Japan Premium or Kyoto Uji varieties available in hot or cold forms—you can also observe your barista executing a traditional Japanese tea ritual. Don’t miss out on the distinctive Manila-exclusive beverage: the Matcha Ube Latte layered delightfully.
ube
creamy froth. Their latest outlets at Opus Mall and Ayala Malls Vertis North now offer a special menu for dining in as well.
kakigori
, perfects, and a delightful Matcha Carrot Cake topped with a matcha cream cheese glaze.
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