Regular green tea is so 2015. This year it’s all about the super antioxidant power of matcha, a particular type of powdered green tea that’s said to be especially potent. In fact, 1/4-1/2 teaspoon of matcha is equal to 8 to 10 cups of regular tea in terms of its antioxidant power, which is why matcha is considered to be a powerhouse for fighting cancer and disease. It’s now become widely available at NYC eateries, popping up everywhere from chains like Juice Press to niche cafés like Maman and highbrow restaurants like Café Clover. Here’s a look at the best spots to sip and nosh on the it green of the moment.
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Dominique Ansel Kitchen
image: facebook.com/dominique.ansel.kitchen
Leave it to the culinary (and marketing…) genius behind the Cronut, Dominique Ansel, to come up with an innovative twist on fried dough. Served at Dominique Ansel Kitchen, the pastry master is now serving matcha beignets, which are fried to order using hot oil and sweet matcha powdered sugar. Go.
Maman
There’s no enjoying Maman’s so-called most impressive cookie without ordering their matcha-infused almond latte. Or go all out and skip the cookie all together and opt for their matcha tropezienne or matcha pancakes alongside your latte. Go.
Matcha Cafe Wabi
image: facebook.com/matcha-cafe-wabi
Head here for a souped up version of a traditional matcha latte; the café’s signature elixir is made with heavy cream, Uji Matcha powder, milk and homemade simple syrup. They’ve also got a variety of Japanese style pastries made with the powder. Go.
Cha-an
Matcha has long been part of traditional Japanese tea ceremonies and Cha-an is the place to go for a taste of that longstanding ritual. Everything at the diminutive, always packed 2nd floor spot is served to code and they’ve been doing so for over a decade. Aside from the powder in pure form customers can also get a latte or affogato. Go.
Juice Press
Raw, vegan and organic Juice Press’ Matcha Green Blend is made with matcha, homemade almond or coco-cashew milk, and a touch of mint, with the option to add a natural sweetener. Get it bottled or made to order over ice. Also on deck: Samurai Matcha Bowl, a gluten-free mix of matcha, coconut milk, chia seeds, pistachios and other superfoods. Go.
MatchaBar
image: facebook.com/matchabarnyc
Proof that this isn’t a fleeting trend; this Williamsburg-based café is an entirely matcha-focused operation. They exclusively use their own brand of ceremonial grade matcha sourced directly from an independent family farm in Nishio, Japan for their long list of matcha drinks and food options like matcha biscotti, cakes and macaroons. Go.
Café Clover
When Café Clover opened it was immediately hailed as a “magnet for body-conscious power players who don’t want to feel like they’re being deprived of butter, salt and gluten,” so it’s fitting that one of their most popular cocktails is made with matcha; the Harajuku Gimlet is a blend of Tanqueray No. 10, muddled shiso, yuzu cordial and matcha green tea powder. Go.
Voila Chocolat
Turns out a matcha green tea white hot chocolate–no matter the temperature–is a great idea. And while you’re at it don’t miss the opportunity to make your own bonbons and bar of chocolate at this artisanal chocolate shop. Go.
Chalait
image: facebook.com/chalaitnyc
At this West Village Mecca of matcha you’ll find a long list of beverages including iced matcha latte, iced matcha tea with seasonal cordial, matcha latte with chocolate sauce, matcha shot with steamed milk and shots of top grade matcha as well as a rotating list of matcha-infused sweets. Go.