The Best Coffee Shops in New York for Matcha Lovers
New York City is known for its incredible food scene, diverse culture, and endless options for coffee and tea lovers. Among them, matcha has gained tremendous popularity in recent years. This bright green powder, made from finely ground Japanese green tea leaves, is not only packed with antioxidants but also has a smooth, earthy flavor that can brighten anyone’s day. If you’re a matcha lover and looking for the best spots in NYC to enjoy a matcha latte or dessert, you’re in luck! Here’s our list of some of the top matcha coffee shops in the city.
1. Cha Cha Matcha
Location: Multiple Locations
Cha Cha Matcha is perhaps the most famous spot in New York for matcha enthusiasts. With its tropical pink and green décor and Instagram-worthy designs, this place goes beyond just offering delicious drinks. They serve matcha lattes, matcha soft serve, matcha lemonade, matcha pastries, and even adaptogenic matcha drinks that include ingredients like turmeric or ginger to give you an extra health boost.
Whether you want to sip on a creamy matcha latte or try something unique like their matcha coconut frozen treat, Cha Cha Matcha always impresses. The staff is super friendly, and the vibe is laid-back yet vibrant. This is the ultimate trendy matcha destination in NYC.
2. Matchaful
Location: Multiple Locations
Matchaful is a spot for those who appreciate high-quality, sustainable matcha. This café focuses on using organic, ceremonial-grade matcha sourced directly from Japan. Unlike some places that add sugar or syrups to their drinks, Matchaful keeps things simple and clean. You can truly taste the pure matcha flavor in every sip.
Their offerings range from classic matcha lattes to creative drinks like the “Blue Lemonade Matcha,” which combines matcha with spirulina and fresh lemon juice. Matchaful also serves matcha smoothies and matcha-based bites like their oat matcha cookie. The minimalist, plant-filled interior makes this shop a peaceful escape from busy city life.
3. Ippodo Tea
Location: 125 E 39th St, Manhattan
Ippodo Tea is a traditional Japanese tea shop located in Midtown Manhattan. This shop is ideal if you’re looking for authentic matcha prepared in the traditional style. Ippodo offers both sweetened and unsweetened matcha options, so you can customize your drink to your liking.
Experienced staff members will guide you through the different matcha varieties and preparation techniques if you’re curious. Besides matcha lattes, they serve ceremonial matcha, steeped Japanese teas, and other tea-based beverages. If you’d like to try making matcha at home, Ippodo sells matcha powder, tea bowls, whisks, and everything else you’ll need. This is the perfect place for matcha purists.
4. Osaka Coffee
Location: 400 E 14th St, Manhattan
Osaka Coffee is a cozy café that blends Japanese and American-style drinks. While their coffee selections are standout, their matcha menu deserves just as much attention. Their matcha latte is creamy and flavorful, crafted with great care using high-quality matcha powder.
What sets Osaka Coffee apart is their matcha specialties, like the “Matcha Espresso Fusion.” This exciting drink combines matcha and espresso for a bold and unique flavor pairing. The fusion of earthy matcha and robust coffee is sure to give you the perfect energy boost to start your day.
5. Boba Guys
Location: Multiple Locations
If you love matcha and bubble tea, then Boba Guys is a must-visit. Known for their house-made syrups, fresh ingredients, and ethical sourcing, Boba Guys offer a variety of matcha drinks prepared with care. Their matcha latte is smooth and perfectly balanced, and you can even customize how sweet you want it.
One of their most popular items is the Strawberry Matcha Latte, which layers fresh strawberries, milk, and matcha for a visually stunning and delicious treat. Adding tapioca pearls to your drink gives it that fun bubble tea twist.
6. Alfred Tea Room
Location: 117 Crosby St, Manhattan
Alfred Tea Room is another stylish spot that’s loved by Instagrammers and matcha fans alike. They serve the iconic matcha latte, but if you’re feeling adventurous, you can try their matcha with almond milk or add fun flavors like lavender. Their matcha creations are always picture-perfect and beautifully presented.
The shop’s pink-and-gold decor with neon signs makes it feel like you’ve walked into a matcha wonderland. Grab a drink and snap a few photos before heading to explore SoHo, one of NYC’s trendiest neighborhoods.
7. KAI Coffee
Location: 749 Broadway, Manhattan
KAI Coffee is not only a great spot for high-quality coffee but also for carefully crafted matcha drinks. They pride themselves on using organic ingredients, and their matcha latte is prepared with precision to bring out its rich and creamy flavor.
You’ll also find matcha options with oat milk or almond milk for a dairy-free treat. Pair your matcha drink with a pastry from their selection for a delightful café experience. The cozy atmosphere makes KAI Coffee a favorite hangout for locals and visitors alike.
Final Thoughts
New York is brimming with matcha hotspots that cater to every taste, whether you’re looking for traditional Japanese tea or fun, innovative matcha creations. Each of these coffee shops offers delicious matcha drinks, welcoming vibes, and something unique for matcha lovers to enjoy. Next time you’re wandering the streets of NYC, stop by one of these spots and indulge in your love for matcha. You’ll likely end up with both a happy stomach and some great photos for your Instagram feed!
Which matcha spot will you try first? Let us know in the comments below!
