As May arrives in New York City, the city begins to bloom, the sidewalks buzz with energy, and cafés fill with locals soaking up the sunshine with outdoor seating. It’s the perfect season to embrace something fresh, vibrant, and a little indulgent… like matcha.
Known for its earthy flavor and bright green hue, matcha feels right at home in spring. Whether you’re sipping it iced in the sunshine or enjoying it in a delicate dessert, here are the best spots to experience NYC’s matcha craze, just in time for the season.
1. Cha Cha Matcha
Cha Cha Matcha is one of New York City’s most recognizable matcha cafés, blending traditional Japanese tea culture with a playful, Instagram-ready aesthetic. Inside it's locations, you'll find bright pink and green interiors, and a laid-back energy that feels equal parts wellness café and hangout spot. Cha Cha Matcha stands out for its creative menu like: coconut matcha lattes, matcha soft serve, and seasonal specialty drinks alongside more traditional offerings.
2. Matchaful
Spring is all about renewal, and Matchaful leans into that feeling with its clean, wellness-focused approach. Compared to other brands, Matchaful brings a more intentional, ritual-driven approach to NYC’s matcha scene, rooted in sustainability and wellness. Founded in NYC, the brand has grown from pop-ups into multiple cafés across Manhattan, becoming a go-to for those seeking a more refined and mindful matcha experience.
3. Sorate
Sorate stands out by leaning into tradition, craftsmanship, and cultural connection to Japanese tea. Rather than focusing on trend-driven drinks that you see online, Sorate highlights the artistry behind sourcing high-quality product, and preparing it with cultural technique. The result is a smoother flavor profile that appeals to true matcha enthusiasts.
4. Patisserie Fouet
Patisserie Fouet blends Japanese precision with French pastry techniques, creating a matcha experience that leans more toward artistry than everyday café culture. Rather than focusing solely on drinks, Fouet shines through its intricate matcha-infused creations. Standouts like the matcha tiramisu and matcha cheesecake showcase the tea’s earthy depth paired with light creams and subtle sweetness, allowing the flavor to feel nuanced instead of overly bitter or sugary.
5. Setsugekka
Setsugekka is a traditional Japanese teahouse dedicated to preserving the art of matcha in its purest form. Currently located in the East Village, the space invites guests to slow down and experience matcha as it was meant to be enjoyed, rooted in centuries-old ceremonial practices and brought over to New York City for your enjoyment.
6. Common Address
Tucked away on the Upper West Side, Common Address feels like a hidden gem where matcha meets everyday comfort. Known for its welcoming atmosphere, the café strikes a balance between trendy and homey, making it just as ideal for a quick coffee run as it is for settling in with your work laptop.
7. Matcha 108
Located in the Two Bridges/Chinatown area, Matcha 108 has built a reputation for authentic yet low-key matcha destinations. Although the place itself is small and intimate, you can find yourself enjoying a delicious hand-whisked drink often made with ceremonial-grade powder which results in a rich, vibrant flavor than your average coffee latte.
Staying at the Moderne Hotel places you at the center of it all. Close to blooming Central Park, midtown neighborhoods, and some of the best matcha in the city. After a day of exploring, shopping, and enjoying the great weather, there’s nothing better than winding down with your favorite matcha find. Stay at the Moderne Hotel for a match-a made in heaven... ;)
