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The Ultimate NYC Matcha Guide: Top 10 Spots for an Authentic Matcha
- Sasha Huang
- Jun 18
- 4 min read
NEW YORK
Beyond its aesthetic appeal and photogenic froth, matcha offers an experience: think bamboo whisks, stone-ground powder, and a mindful moment in every cup. Today, as more New Yorkers swap their espresso shots for a gentler caffeine lift, matcha is having its well-deserved spotlight.
In this curated guide, we have round up the top 10 spots in New York City where matcha is not only made right, but also served with style. Whether you’re drawn to minimal Kyoto-inspired interiors or fruity matcha latte variations, these destinations bring a little green magic to your daily routine.
All imagery is courtesy of respective business.
12 matcha
The new East Village gem that every matcha obsessive is talking about. Since opening in March, 12 Matcha has quickly become the destination for those who take their tea (and interiors) seriously. It has lava stone countertops glazed in emerald enamel, hand-whisked lattes served under cinematic spotlights, and water filtered through binchotan charcoal. When the line is that long, you have to try their ceremonial matcha cheesecake and ice cream by a former Noma pastry chef. It’s a full-on sensory experience, and yes, the line can go down a full block.
Address: 54 Bond Street, New York, New York 10012 | Website: 12matcha.com | Instagram: @12.matcha
Kijitora
A not-so-hidden gem in Brooklyn that feels like a warm hug wrapped in wood tones and soft light. Kijitora charms with its adorable neko, aka cat, branding, cozy vibes, and a menu that balances matcha with Japanese comfort food staples. Their grilled cat-shaped sandwiches are almost too cute to eat, and the onigiri are quietly perfect. The matcha lattes are smooth and soothing that is ideal for sipping solo on a mellow afternoon.
Address: 534 East 14th New York NY 10009 | Website: kijitorabrooklyn.com/home | Instagram: @kijitorabrooklyn
Cha an
If New York ever had its own Kyoto-style tea escape, Cha-An would be it. Tucked above street level in the East Village, this serene teahouse feels suspended in time with its tatami seating, washi lanterns, and seasonal floral touches. The matcha here is ceremonial, paired with delicate wagashi and served with reverence. The full afternoon tea sets are dreamy, combining Japanese flavors with a touch of French pâtisserie elegance. Come here when you want to disappear into a slower, softer world.
Address: 230 East 9th Street, New York, New York 10003 | Website: chaanteahouse.com | Instagram: @chaanteahouse | Facebook: @chaanteahouse
Bunny and bro
Arguably the most underrated matcha café in the city. Bunny & Bro gets everything right: hand-whisked matcha, minimal interiors, just enough seating, and zero pretense. Their signature matcha einspänner (matcha topped with thick whipped cream) is silky and rich, and the kind of drink you’ll think about long after it’s gone. It’s a favorite among quiet creatives, design students, and anyone who needs a low-key study spot with seriously good green tea. This place is a secret worth sharing.
Address: 20 West 43rd Street, New York, New York 10036 | Website: bunnybrocoffee.com | Instagram: @bunnybrocoffee
Sorate
A tiny matcha nook that punches way above its size. Sorate offers hand-whisked matcha made with single-origin leaves from a family farm in Uji, Kyoto. The vibe is intimate. Dim lights, bare wood, a curated counter, and soft-spoken staff. Matcha is served alongside wagashi, with a strong focus on ethical sourcing and mindful prep. It feels less like a café and more like a private tea appointment.
Address: 103 Sullivan Street, New York, New York 10012 | Website: sorate.co | Instagram: @sorate.co | Facebook: @sorate.co
Kettl
Kettl is for the matcha romantics who know the name of their tea farmer and the ideal water temperature for a perfect pour. Founded by Zach and Minami Mangan, the brand is as much about storytelling as it is about tea. Their matcha is strong, vivid, and complex, sourced directly from long-term partners in Japan. The Brooklyn space doubles as a tasting room, design boutique, and café for the city’s most discerning tea drinkers.
Setsugekka
Named after the poetic trio of snow, moon, and flowers, Setsugekka brings a seasonal philosophy to its tea rituals. Here, matcha is freshly ground on a traditional stone mill and served in an ultra-authentic, no-frills setting. Sit at the bar or on a tatami mat, sip slowly, and let the space work its magic. It’s one of the rare places in New York where the ceremony is as central as the drink. A must-visit for purists.
Address: 74 East 7th Street, New York, NY 10003 | Website: setsugekkany.com | Instagram: @setsugekkany_matcha | Facebook: @SetsugekkaNY
Matcha 108
Where matcha meets Manhattan cool. Matcha 108 offers bold flavors, a fashion-forward crowd, and functional wellness blends that nod to the adaptogen trend. Their signature “108 Shot” is a smooth, strong boost of green energy. The café’s design is clean, modern, and Instagram-ready without feeling forced. Think Tokyo streetwear meets New York wellness girlie.
Address: 108 Madison Street, New York, NY 10002 | Instagram: @matcha108nyc
Nippon tea
Step into Nippon Cha and step back into centuries of Japanese tea heritage. Their ceremonial-grade matcha is rich, velvety, and steeped in the legacy of the Mizoguchi family, who have been in the tea trade for over 400 years. The Midtown shop is sleek and calming, with options for thick koicha or lighter usucha, plus beautiful wagashi on the side. It’s refined, thoughtful, and quietly luxurious. Perfect for when you want to elevate your tea break into a full ritual.
Address: 214 Bedford Avenue, East Williamsburg, Brooklyn 11249 | Website: nipponcha.us | Instagram: @nipponcha | Facebook: @nipponchausa
Not as bitter
East Village’s cheeky wildcard. Known more for their espresso-fruit hybrids, this café unexpectedly delivers some of the city’s most creative matcha drinks. From fruity matcha coolers to creamy matcha-milk combos, everything here is a little weird—in the best way. Great for when you’re craving something different but still green. It’s playful, refreshing, and surprisingly addictive.
Address: 241 East 10th Street, New York, NY 10003 | Website: notasbitter.com | Instagram: @notasbitter
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