Move over coffee, there’s a new drink of choice in town. From creamy lattes, trendy strawberry-infused renditions to a warm cup of pure, undiluted ceremonial grade matcha, the premium powdered green tea has experienced a massive global popularity boom, not only for its versatility and unique umami flavour, but the many health benefits it boasts.
Although matcha is derived from the same plant as most green teas, its delicate cultivation and extraction process—which includes being grown in the shade and steamed without rolling or pressing–-and purity when turned into a powder results in a more rich, earthy and complex flavour than that of regular teas such as sencha. For this reason, matcha is richer in antioxidants, anti-inflammatory polyphenols and calming l-theanine amino acids than any other tea, boosting energy, supporting immune systems and soothing anxious minds.
While the rest of the world is only just opening their eyes to the wonders of matcha, a deep love for it has been brewing right here on our sunny shores for a long time, with a good number of well-established cafes and matcha houses who’ve already amassed loyal followings over the years. Then, there’s the many newcomers who have jumped on the matcha bandwagon—these days, one can hardly stroll through town without spotting tens of shoppers clutching a cup of that rich green liquid, each branded with a different logo. Lucky for us matcha fans, the heat of competition between establishments only results in better quality and creativity in menu offerings as they try to stand out from the crowd, leaving us spoilt for choice.
Whether you’ve been a long-time matcha purist, a recent convert or just looking to find out what all the hype is about, see Vogue Singapore’s best spots to get a delicious, high quality matcha in Singapore.
1 / 7
June Coffee
If the snaking queues on the weekends are anything to go by, there’s good reason to why June Coffee is Upper East Coast’s shiny new addition. With a food menu that fuses Japanese nuances with classic brunch delights, they also deliver on interesting drink concoctions with a strong focus on matcha. From a seasonal taro matcha to kinako matcha, the latter topped with roasted soybean powder, those with a green tea bias will certainly be sated.
49 E Coast Rd, Singapore 428768
2 / 7
Kyō Kohee
From a hole-in-the-wall kiosk to a serene space with a full-fledged menu, Kyō Kohee has come a long way. Two things that they pride themselves on: coffee and matcha. The latter, is expanded through ceremonial-grade matcha varieties available to sip straight or in a latte.
112 Robinson Rd, #01-01, Singapore 068902
3 / 7
Oaks Coffee Co
Nestled in the Thomson enclave, Oaks Coffee Co strikes as a ‘if you know you know’ spot for matcha lovers. While they serve up hearty plates of grub alongside specialty coffee, their matcha too, stands as the cafe’s hidden weapon. Those who prefer their matcha on a bitter end would take to Oaks’ rendition—whether enjoyed in a tall iced glass of shirakashi matcha or a refreshing matcha yuzu concoction.
223 Upper Thomson Rd, Singapore 574355
4 / 7
Hvala
Perhaps one of Singapore’s most longstanding institutions when it comes to matcha, Hvala stands as the renowned place where most of us had our initiations to the green drink. From mochi, ice-cream to a slew of different ways to enjoy a wide selection of Japanese tea, you can’t exactly go astray here. It’s also worth noting that Hvala partners with multi generational tea farmers and speciality producers in Japan to deliver the best of the best at all their outlets in Singapore.
333 N Bridge Rd, #01-11 Odeon Towers, Singapore 188721
5 / 7
Pacto by Parchment
This hidden gem is worth the hunt when quality and reasonably-priced matcha is concerned. You’ll find a changing menu featuring unique blends of tea that come from Japan and China, with most taking on a complex and full-bodied profile. It’s probably why all of the matcha served here—whether straight or in a latte—go by the default of no sugar added.
5 Kadayanallur St, #01-10, Singapore 069183
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Echo House
A strawberry matcha obsession is on the rise and Echo House’s version does well to tie in the two delicious elements with a good ratio. In a cup that holds thick and piquant matcha and a sweet yet tart strawberry jam, one can also choose the sweetness level tailored to your personal preference.
5 Kadayanallur St, #01-08, Singapore 069183
7 / 7
Little Glass
First established as a coffee space, Glass Roasters has steadily built itself as a matcha contender. One would notice this just by walking into its address at Galaxis Mall, Little Glass, albeit small but brimming with Japandi elements in its interiors. Here’s where you can score a cup of ceremonial matcha, as well as light snacks like their madelines on display.
1 Fusionopolis Pl, #01-34, Singapore 138522
