It’s no secret that I love a good matcha latte. After discovering so many matcha bars serving up this satisfying green tea drink last summer, I’ve been all over the city sampling the best matcha lattes in NYC.
But, why matcha? A Japanese tradition, matcha is the highest quality powdered green tea available. It’s high in antioxidants and acts as an anti-inflammatory. It has the power to lower cholesterol and even help with weight loss and while it is caffeinated, the effect is far different than a cup of coffee. Personally, I can’t tolerate caffeine without feeling jittery or panicky, but matcha makes me feel calm and focused.
With matcha trending in the health food world, local cafes are making their own versions of a matcha latte. Needless to say, I’ve tried many. These are the best matcha lattes in NYC that I’ve found so far:
One // Cha Cha Matcha: The place that sparked my love of matcha. Its totally Instagramable pink and green decor and friendly staff make this somewhat of an NYC destination. I’ve been known to wake up extra early for my matcha fix just to beat the long lines of tourists.
What makes it special? Flavored matcha for the win! I’m addicted to the ginger turmeric, the pumpkin spice for fall is so basic but so worth it and peppermint is festive for the holidays. Cha Cha Matcha also has an impressive list of non-dairy milks from which to choose.
Locations:
373 Broome Street
1158 Broadway
Two // Blue Stone Lane: David and I braved the lines at this Australian-inspired cafe for breakfast one weekend. Lo and behold when the menu came, not only were they serving up matcha lattes, but also golden lattes (with turmeric) and beet lattes for a wellness latte triple threat.
What makes it special: Their matcha lattes are delish but so are the beet and golden lattes. They have a wellness latte sampler so you can try all three. Highly recommend!
Locations:
several locations throughout New York City
Three // Cha Lait: As far as I’m concerned, Cha Lait pioneered Matcha Lattes in New York City. It was there I tried my first ever matcha latte two years ago and knew I could become quickly addicted.
What makes it special? Cha Lait is clean and understated just like matcha should be.
Locations:
1216 Broadway
75 9th Avenue
299 West Houston Street
Four // Greecologies: My husband stumbled on this cafe for its coffee and Greek yogurt, but they also make matcha lattes and they’re really good. The fragrant rose matcha latte is my favorite.
What makes is special? The cafe is spacious so seating is plentiful and the quaint garden at their NoLita location is a treat.
Locations:
379 Broome Street
152 2nd Avenue
Five // Ground Support: For a shop known for its coffee, I admittedly had my doubts, but they get the matcha latte right every time.
What makes it special? The friendly staff.
Location:
399 West Broadway
Six // Union Fare: Needing a quiet place to take a phone call and check some emails, I found the bakery at Union Fare and was pleasantly surprised they serve up piping hot matcha lattes here. It’s an oasis in the middle of bustling Union Square.
What makes it special? The effervescent lavender they add to their matcha lattes makes it next level.
Location:
6 East 18th Street
Leave a Reply