Must Try Matcha Spots

Matcha comes in many types and variations—especially in Pasadena.

But First... Matcha 101

The Origin of Matcha

The Japanese words matsu, "to rub, to daub, to paint" and cha, "tea", were combined to form the word "matcha". In ancient China, an early form of matcha was made by grinding a compressed green tea brick into a powder and mixing it with hot water. Later, the spread of the Chinese tea custom was introduced to Japan and became a spiritual practice for Zen Buddhist monks, Samurai warriors and the upper class to enhance mindfulness. Over time, the cultivation of the tea plants and formulation of the beverage inspired the Japanese Tea Ceremony.

What is a Japanese Tea Ceremony?

The cultural experience takes place inside a quiet room with minimal decoration and furniture to create a moment of respect and focus on the present. The host makes every movement meaningful and gives careful attention to etiquette and utensils while the guests enjoy a sweet dessert before receiving matcha. The host will then meticulously whisk the powder and hot water into a foam to create a light, airy texture and smooth flavor. Both the host and guests then bow to each other in gratitude before taking sips of the tea. What began as a meditative ritual evolved into an artistic cultural tradition. Today, the influence of the rich tea culture has reached the world through a variety of culinary creations.

Matcha Grades

The quality of matcha is determined by how the tea leaves are grown, harvested, and ground. Although the term "ceremonial grade" is not used in Japan, these tea leaves are of the highest quality. From shading the plants for several weeks before harvest to stem removal and traditional stone milling, creating the powder is intentional and labored with care. This matcha is widely recognized by a vivid emerald color, naturally sweet flavor profile, and extremely fine particles. This particular grade is commonly used for tea ceremonies and meant to be consumed on its own.

The modernization of matcha has increased mass production so the use of advanced technology loses the rich cultural heritage. High-speed machines are used for milling then the tea leaves are pan fried to increase grassiness. There is less shedding or even minimal shading involved, and intact stems create a grainy texture. This particular grade is commonly recognized as "culinary grade". It has a slightly bitter flavor profile and is not meant for drinking as plain tea.

Now that the history and grades of have been introduced, read along to discover charming cafés that serve unique matcha creations all around the city.

Dash Coffee

Dash Coffee is a woman-owned coffee shop where Asian-inspired flavors thrive with their ceremonial grade matcha drinks. Flavors like Pandan and Ube can be accommodated with milk alternatives, syrups, and matcha foam creams to top it off.

Nostalgic Café

A sanctuary where every item evokes nostalgia. The Nostalgic Café sets the tone for a cozy atmosphere. Step back in time with a matcha rose latte or matcha ube latte and complete the visit with a bagel sandwich or pastry.

Danbi Coffee

Danbi Coffee is well-known for the clean aesthetic workplace and creamy matcha drinks. The "Matcha Rain" is inspired by the coffee shop's name, which means "sweet rain" in Korean. It contains triple matcha, oat milk, and sprinkled matcha powder on top. The banana matcha made with real banana and almond toffee crumble is a local favorite.

Mandarin Coffee Stand

The charming Mandarin Coffee Stand brings high-quality Chinese specialty coffee and ceremonial grade matcha to the London-inspired shopping center. As of Winter 2026, Mandarin sources its tea and matcha from Kettl, well-known for its close relationships with artisan farmers and a curated selection of blends and single cultivar offerings from Japan.

Savvvy's Coffee

The family-owned café invites all matcha lovers. From mushroom based matcha drinks to matcha pistachio croissants, Savvvy's Coffee selection stands out. The beverage menu encourages customization, allowing guests to choose either matcha or espresso as the base of a specialty or classic latte featuring rose syrup and blueberry purée or caramel and hazelnut, to name a few.

BadAsh Bakery

The viral BadAsh Bakery is known for its delicious treats and creativity- especially when it comes to matcha. Using first harvest matcha, baker Ashley Cunningham crafts year-round favorites like matcha cinnamon rolls, matcha blondies, and matcha cookies.

Republik Coffee Lounge

One of the many dog-friendly cafes is the Republik Coffee Lounge. The outdoor patio invites guests to connect and savor brunch or lunch with a delicious matcha and their furry friends. Add house made almond milk and syrups to the ceremonial matcha latte or grab a refreshing tonic. Elevate your wellness breakfast with their matcha chia pudding.

Amara Chocolate and Coffee

At Amara Chocolate and Coffee, Venezuelan flavors enhance the matcha latte experience. Their coco-strawberry matcha latte is made with pure coconut syrup, shredded coconut, and strawberry coulis, creating a tropical and energizing boost. During the winter season, the iced foamed gingerbread dulce de le matcha latte offers a cozy twist - especially paired with warm cinnamon sugar churros.

Coffee and Plants

Every offering at the vibrant Coffee and Plants café is 100% plant-based. Beyond the cup, the café partners with the National Forest Foundation to plant a tree for every 100 cups ordered. Participate in the movement with a specialty ceremonial grade matcha drink paired with a flaky matcha croissant.

Oakobing

Indulge in the ultimate matcha dessert at Oakobing, the beloved Korean shaved ice spot. The green tea bingsu topped with rich matcha powder, mochi, sweet red beans and milk drizzle is available in a single serving or can be shared between two to four guests. For a refreshing twist, the iced matcha latte comes with a mound of green tea shaved ice.

Delight Pastry

For over 20 years, the women and family behind Delight Pastry have brought delight in every bite of their European pastries. Their crispy matcha pistachio croissant pairs perfectly with a specialty or classic matcha latte.

Pasadena Roots/La Chula Café

The love for all things green is real at the Latina-owned store and café, Pasadena Roots/La Chula Café. Browse plants and artisan goods made by Latino makers while drinking a matcha. Don’t forget to add house made banana cold foam or horchata!

OH LA LA Café & Bistro

Escape to the French Riveria at Oh La La Cafe & Bistro restaurant and bakery where brunch and pastries collide. Say oui to everything on the menu including their seasonal matcha lattes and creations. Try matcha cortado style or the signature mixed berry matcha latte.

Credit
Simran Malik

Miopane

The first U.S. location of this Taiwanese bakery brings stuffed bagels with unique flavors to Old Pasadena. Using first harvest leaves, Miopane highlights matcha baked goods and drinks. From a matcha crumble bagel and matcha Basque burnt cheesecake to a matcha einspanner and the signature matcha pillow latte.

ID-Éclair

ID-Éclair reimagines French pastries through an all-vegan menu featuring beautifully crafted sweets. Among the many treats, one of their matcha-forward desserts are the matcha macarons and matcha tarts available year-round.

Pillowtalk

This hidden gem on South Lake Avenue serves handcrafted chiffon cakes and specialty drinks. From dirty matcha lattes to airy “matchamisu” cakes, Pillowtalk is a must-stop for a satisfying matcha fix.

Bu Pastry Bar

Tucked inside the London-inspired Burlington Arcade shopping center is Bu Pastry Bar, a bakery specializing in French canelés, madeleines, and dacquoise cakes. The pastry menu features matcha and matcha yuzu canelés and a matcha red bean dacquoise as well as matcha lattes. Yum!

Ideology Coffee

Along the tree-lined streets, large windows at Ideology bring in plenty of natural light, inviting guests to slow down. Enjoy the moment with a blue matcha iced latte, steeped with butterfly pea flowers and jasmine tea, and sweetened with house made jasmine syrup.

Motto Tea Café

Motto Tea Café's love for sweet treats shines through soufflé pancakes, cakes & drinks. The matcha crème brulee souffle or a matcha yuzu chiffon crepe cake are the perfect combination for satisfying a sweet tooth and energy pick-me up.

Fika Fika Coffee

Take a moment to delight in an adorable matcha mochi paw at Fika Fika Coffee. These soft pastries are filled with matcha cream and are so delicious, they disappear in seconds. Try dipping the mochi paw into a frothy matcha latte or pair it with a scoop of ice cream in unique Asian-inspired flavors like pandan coconut or lychee.

Coming Soon

Pasadena locals and visitors will soon be able to experience Nana's Green Tea, a destination for authentic Japanese delicacies on May 9, 2026. The pioneer matcha café will bring matcha desserts, drinks, and baked goods, alongside savory offerings to the city, elevating the matcha scene.

Create Your Own Matcha Trail

Pasadena has long been a favorite destination for coffee and pastry walks as well as boba trails. Check out a curated map designed to inspire a personal matcha adventure. Invite friends and family to uncover a new favorite café or save this guide for the next visit to the city as there will be more creative matcha drinks and treats to discover each time.

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