So what is this “matcha” we are seeing in hip cafes these days and where does one find it? Not to be confused with Maté (South American tea that’s customary to drink through a flat “straw”), Matcha is ground up green tea leaves and according to my sources and Oxford’s Living Dictionary, the word is derived from Chinese Mandarin terms for “to rub” and “tea.” While it has caffeine, it’s said (and I can attest to the fact) that you don’t experience that sudden alert spike coffee can sometimes spur, and instead provides a sustained energizing alertness. Apparently, it’s packed with antioxidants too. If you put dilute the powder into water (it won’t all dissolve, but it so finely ground, some of it will), it’s calorie free too! The powder is now used in baking and cooking too or you may find it in or on a donut, cupcake, or chocolate in a sweet shop!

There are so many health benefits to this creamy, rounded-flavor, rejuvenating mix-in tea powder – as if the vibrant green color didn’t give it away! The only drawback I have found is the price. You can expect to pay an average of $5 per cup (which may or may not exceed your cup of fancy coffee at the nearest hot spot boutique cafe) but it may be healthier, need less sweetener to enjoy, and it’s much more affordable if you buy a tea canister or package at a grocery store and make it at home. You may find it helpful to purchase a matcha whisk to help you stir it in for a smooth consistency free from clumps.

I’ve rounded up my favorite matcha tea cafes in Chicago. Check them out!

1. David’s Tea – (Millennium Park, Wicker Park, Southport) As an avid tea-drinker, I’ve been drinking matcha for a few years, after discovering the Vanilla Matcha at David’s Tea in Chicago. The tea mixture is sweetened with real coconut to round out the flavor without adding actual sugar, but tasting naturally and barely sweet. I order a warm cup of Vanilla Matcha with water, but almond milk, soy milk, or regular milk adds a bit of creaminess. Don’t have a David’s near you? Order online!

If you haven’t been to a David’s (based in Canada), you’re missing out! It’s a minimalistic, almost Euro modern tea boutique where the canister-lined walls highlight fun looseleaf tea cartons categorized by color (Red for Rooibos, Yellow for Herbal, Green for…Green). The baristas will let you smell a sample before buying or even try it! They usually have some featured as the seasonal flavors too.

2. Sawada Matcha – (River North) This is about as boutique as it gets! Sawada just opened, a sister concept to Sawada Coffee, and the space is intimate, inviting, a little fancy, very well-curated with art and products, and a streamlined menu. Yes, those are matcha donuts from next-door Donut Vault! Donuts, macarons, and matcha? You couldn’t possibly get more of-this-generation. This plentiful matcha latte cup was barely sweetened per my request (usually I just add a little honey), and my sweetheart tried a Matcha Americano (shot). They also have a Military Latte that includes Espresso and Matcha if you really need a boost! Next time, I think I’d get a Matcha shot to save a couple dollars, but still get the smooth, energizing green tea experience.

3. City Grounds – (Lincoln Park) Thanks to my friend Brie for introducing me to this European-inspired coffee shop near the park. This door was so peculiar, I admired it, and then just wondered what was behind it! Supposedly, the cafe is looking to mimic the feel of cafes in Vienna and Paris, with a relaxed vibe where you can meet, sip, and daydream.

The cafe was very simple, clean, and housed a private place to focus upstairs and it certainly looked like a place to hide out and catch some private time with your coffee or matcha!

4. Spoke & Bird – (South Loop) While I don’t have a photo of the Mint Matcha I drank recently at our neighborhood destination of a coffee shop. However, everything at this hip, buzzing cafe is so tasty, including this delicious and fresh salad!

5. Nana – (Bridgeport) Nana remains one of Chicago’s best kept secrets. (In fact, I featured it on my Chicago Hidden Gem Valentine’s Date ideas post!) You really do feel like you’re eating at your cozy Nana’s house with authentic Latin-inspired cuisine. It just makes you feel warm and fuzzy to dine in this off-the-beaten-path cafe. Who says matcha and empanadas don’t go together?! (Not me!)

So, friends…Ready to get your matcha on? Share your favorite matcha cafes to add to the list!

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