Matcha has become the latest rage. If you scroll through social media, you will see people trying different brands, attempting to achieve microfoam, which is different from foam as it has smaller bubbles that give the top appearance of velvety or smooth foam, or showcasing their cute setups. I personally love matcha due to the benefits.Â
Matcha is a form of green tea, where instead of steeping the leaves, they are ground into a fine powder to be mixed with hot water and served either hot or cold. Matcha has proven benefits, such as antioxidants and boosting brain health (Ajmera, 2025).Â
The main things that drew me into the matcha craze were that it didn’t upset my stomach like coffee does, and, of course, its taste. I love how matcha isn’t bitter; it’s earthy, nutty, and sometimes almost buttery. The taste really depends on where the matcha is sourced from.Â
My favorite type of matcha is a ceremonial, undyed matcha. Ceremonial-grade matcha originates from Japan, and it is the pinnacle of matcha. It is traditionally made (and it’s perfect). Traditional matcha is defined as “matcha made from the youngest, most tender tea leaves, typically harvested during the season’s first flush. These leaves are rich in nutrients and flavor, making them ideal for premium matcha. When whisked, it produces a vibrant, dark green color, indicating its richness in chlorophyll and nutrients. You will also notice its rich flavor and creamy texture when you drink it, according to the Art of Tea website.Â
You may be wondering about my credentials to give matcha recommendations. Well, first, I have been drinking matcha since my sophomore year of high school, so for about five years. Additionally, I worked as a barista last year, so I have a bit of a coffee shop perspective on the topic.
Now, let’s talk about Matcha in San Luis Obispo (SLO). I have tried almost all the coffee shops in SLO because A) I love trying new coffee shops and B) I’ve become a bit addicted to matcha. Now, I can’t rank the coffee shops from least to best, especially since everyone has a different taste for matcha. As you may know, SLO has a fantastic food scene, but I will share my personal favorites.Â
Field Day Coffee
First, we will start Field Day Coffee. If you have not been to this coffee shop, it’s one of my all-time favorites. Their bagels are literally to die for, but I especially love their matcha. It is creamy and smooth, with a sharp, nutty hint to it. You can tell it’s made well because of its color. I also like their simple syrup options; they always complement the matcha so well.Â
Kaffien
Next, we have Kaffien. If you are looking for a fun, flavored matcha, this is your place to go. They offer a wide variety of matcha and matcha lattes, and for all my hot matcha latte enthusiasts, they also serve a traditional hot latte that can be sweetened with honey. For a newer cafe, Kaffien has gained a lot of traction and for good reason— every matcha I’ve had there has been unique. I also appreciate that they whisk their matcha, which is the traditional way to prepare matcha. They also have a great pastry selection!
Scout Coffee
Next, we have a crowd favorite, which is Scout Coffee. Now, their matcha has a very buttery flavor, which is not my personal preference, but if you like a buttery, creamy, less herbal-tasting matcha, this is your place. Also, can we talk about how cute their interior is?!Â
Nautical Bean
Next is one of my favorites, Nautical Bean. Their matcha has become my favorite here in SLO. It comes pre-sweetened, and they have those measurements down to a science. It’s creamy and sweet while still keeping the traditional matcha flavor, which is a challenge to achieve in an iced matcha latte. If you haven’t tried “Nauty Bean” yet, I highly suggest it! They also have great food items!
Kreuzberg and Seeds
 My Final two recommendations for you would be Kruzebregs and Seeds. Now, both of these matchas taste like your basic matcha lattes, but what stands out to me is their unique syrups. Last week at Kruzeberg, I tried the matcha with vanilla bourbon syrup, and trust me, it was so good. The same goes for Seeds; I recently tried their butterfly pea matcha, which was not only beautiful but also had a unique lavender-like flavor.
You cannot go wrong with any spot on this list, or honestly, anywhere in SLO. I’m thrilled that matcha has become as popular as it has, and I’m delighted to find it in so many places now. I remember people used to look at me strangely when I would tell them I was drinking a latte made from tea. From one matcha lover to another, I hope this guide helps you find your perfect matcha!