Places to get a hand-whisked matcha in Canberra
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Here’s a list that’s sure to get matcha lovers into a froth.
The matcha madness hasn’t slowed in Canberra, and while it feels like almost every café has jumped on the bandwagon – firmly entrenching the drink into the cultural zeitgeist and making it one of the most common accessories on an LBG walk – there’s one element that makes some offerings stand out.
The matcha is hand-whisked.
Using what is known as a Chasen in Japanese, the process of hand-whisking matcha has always been a part of the long tradition of preparing the tea.
The Chasen plays an important role in reducing the bitterness and increasing the creaminess of the powdered green tea – which you need if you’re not drinking a sweetened and watered-down version. Whisking also pays tribute to matcha’s centuries-long history and ensures the authenticity of the drink. *
But while in Japan it can take several years of dedication to become a master of a tea ceremony, there are a few cafés in Canberra performing their own version of the ritual.
Here are five places to get a hand-whisked matcha.
Ujin Matcha House (City)
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Newly opened in the city, Ujin sources its matcha directly from Japan (and often, the farm), bringing a true, traditional taste to Canberra.
Using a traditional bamboo Chasen, they both hot and cold whisk the powder – changing the final flavours of the tea – and each matcha is made prepared to order.
Ujin offer the choice of four curated blends, and not only do they have a signature drinks menu but also matcha desserts, including bingsu (Korean shaved ice) and soft serves.
G05, 64 Northbourne Avenue, City | ujin-matchahouse.com.au
Nichi (Kingston)
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Bringing a little piece of Kyoto to Kingston, Nichi has the minimalist aesthetic of Japan and serves hand-whisked matcha and hojicha lattes along with coffee.
Stop in to enjoy a small selection of Sonoma pastries and browse stunning ceramics from Japanese artisans – you’ll feel as though you’ve been transported from the streets of Old Kingston and into a Kyoto café.
Shop 3/22 Jardine Street, Kingston | @nichi.kingston
Good Neighbour (Kingston)
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Known for their matcha bar and rotating menu of specials, Good Neighbour is a favourite of local matcha devotees.
Along with more classic matcha lattes, they also serve strawberry, pistachio and coconut cloud matchas along with iced rose lychee, blueberry and mango.
They hand-whisk all orders by hand, and it’s a common sight to see the staff lined up whisking away early on a Saturday morning.
1/55 Wentworth Avenue, Kingston | @goodneighbour.cafe
Rose N Brew (Tuggeranong)
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This hidden gem in Tuggeranong is worth a visit if you’re looking for a fun, flavoured matcha that still pays tribute to the tradition of the tea.
Pretty, pink, and always prepared for an Instagram moment, the menu boasts classic matcha lattes but also strawberry, blueberry, banana, mango and acai matcha – all served over ice.
Suite 16/236 Cowlishaw Street, Greenway | @rosenbrew.cbr
Teddy’s Matcha (Pop-Up)
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Celebrating the traditional flavours that don’t take over the drink but rather elevate it, Teddy’s Matcha has a menu unlike anything else you’ll find in Canberra. Think: Salted Maple, Brown Sugar Cinnamon, and Earl Grey. And yes, they’re as good as they sound.
Teddy’s pops up around Canberra at different events and markets, and make their matcha fresh on the spot, weighed and whisked right in front of you.
To see where they’ll be next, keep an eye on @teddysmatchacbr.
* To an extent, that is. Adding milk and syrup to the drink isn’t exactly authentic or how it’s traditionally made.
