Matcha Lattes: What They Are and Where to Find Them

Do you ever feel like your caffeine options are limited to the same old coffee and energy drinks? Let us draw your attention to the wonders of the matcha latte. Spring is the perfect time to get acquainted and order a cup, since matcha’s vibrant green hue will remind you of all that is in bloom.

What is matcha?

Matcha powder is made from finely ground, specially grown green tea leaves. The powder is rich in antioxidants and amino acids, which offer health benefits such as a boost in metabolism, blood sugar regulation, and protection against heart disease. Matcha has a sweet and rich taste, and it also has enough caffeine to get you through your morning. Since you are consuming whole leaves rather than steeped tea when you drink matcha, there is much more caffeine than there would be in a cup of regular green tea. All things considered, a matcha latte may be just what you need for your early morning, study session, or afternoon pick-me-up.

Here’s where to find a cup:

Holy Matcha

This new cafe in North Park is adorable (chic pink-and-green decor all around, and even a flower wall made of pink roses). Matcha lattes are the name of the game here. You can even pair your latte with a matcha donut while you enjoy the new digs.
Address: 3118 University Ave., San Diego, CA 92104

Cafe Gratitude

You will be truly grateful for their Vibrant/Matcha Latte with honey and coconut (or almond) milk. Subtly sweetened by the honey, Cafe Gratitude’s latte is refreshing and light. Enjoy it with any of their gluten free, vegan breakfast options. You can find Cafe Gratitude in Little Italy.
Address: 1980 Kettner Blvd., San Diego, CA 92101

The Nest

Located in Ocean Beach, The Nest offers an eclectic vibe and serves a killer Matcha Vinyassa Latte. This cup has perfectly blended flavors of matcha, lavender, nutmeg and coconut milk to start your day off right.

Address: 5032 Niagara Ave., San Diego, CA 92107

KUMA Cafe

This charming cafe in Little Italy keeps things simple and straightforward.  KUMA’s Matcha Latte is no different. No gimmicks, just the simplicity of a sweet, milky, refreshing latte.
Address: 1050 Columbia St., San Diego, CA 92101

GuilTea Cravings

This colorful establishment in Claremont can brighten anyone’s day. The menu offers multiple matcha options to satisfy your craving, but our favorite? The hot Matcha Soy Latte, of course.
Address: 5497 Clairemont Mesa Blvd., San Diego, CA 92117

Want to enjoy your matcha latte in the comfort of your own home? Channel your barista skills and make your own! With only a few ingredients and a relatively easy preparation, you can master matcha in no time. Try this recipe and keep some matcha powder handy in your kitchen for when you’re feeling like a break your coffee routine.