Chicago is a city that is known for its diverse cuisine and vibrant food scene. From deep-dish pizza to hot dogs, Chicagoans take pride in their local dishes. But what about matcha?
This bright green powder made from finely ground green tea leaves has been gaining popularity in recent years. It's a versatile ingredient that can be used in drinks, desserts, and even savory dishes.
If you're a matcha lover, you'll be pleased to know that there are plenty of places in Chicago that serve up this delicious drink.
Whether you prefer your matcha as a latte or in a refreshing iced form, you're sure to find a spot that suits your taste.
But with so many options out there, it can be overwhelming to decide where to go. That's why we've put together a list of the best places for matcha in Chicago.
We've scoured the city to find the most delicious and unique matcha drinks, and we're excited to share our findings with you.
So, whether you're a local or a tourist, get ready to discover some of the best matcha spots in the Windy City.
From trendy cafes to hidden gems, there's something for everyone on our list. So sit back, relax, and get ready to satisfy your matcha cravings.
1. Sawada Coffee
Sawada Coffee is a hip coffee shop that serves creative and classic coffee drinks. They are known for their military matcha latte, which is a unique blend of matcha and espresso.
The atmosphere is cozy and rustic-chic, with a Ping-Pong table for added entertainment.
Although there may be lines, the staff is friendly and the drinks are worth the wait.
Sawada Coffee is a must-visit spot for coffee lovers looking for a unique twist on their favorite drinks.
2. Ground Up Coffee & Bites
Ground Up Coffee & Bites is a charming coffee shop that serves up delicious matcha drinks. The staff is friendly and efficient, and the atmosphere is laid-back and inviting.
In addition to their regular and seasonal drink menus, they offer a variety of pastries and whole beans for sale.
The spinach feta hand pie is a must-try. The limited indoor seating is cozy and perfect for a quick stop or work from home.
For those looking for a new coffee spot, Ground Up Coffee & Bites is definitely worth checking out.
3. First Sip Cafe
First Sip Cafe is a charming coffee shop that offers a variety of unique and creative drinks. The cafe's decor is adorned with plants, vintage cameras, and hanging teacups, creating a cozy atmosphere.
The staff is friendly and the service is fast. The cafe is also doing a great job of maintaining cleanliness and social distancing measures during the pandemic.
The menu features a delicious matcha latte, as well as other interesting drinks like the Spicy Mango Latte and the Pistachio Mint Latte.
Whether you're looking for a place to study or catch up with friends, First Sip Cafe is definitely worth a visit.
4. La Malinche Coffee & Tea House
La Malinche Coffee & Tea House is a hidden gem of a coffee shop that offers some of the best matcha in town.
The cozy and authentic ambiance provides a warm and welcoming environment for customers to relax and enjoy their drinks. The friendly staff is always ready to assist and offer recommendations.
The artisanal fruit teas are a must-try and are perfect for refreshing on a hot day. The prices are a bit high, but the quality of the drinks and the ambiance make it worth the extra cost.
La Malinche Coffee & Tea House is highly recommended for those looking for a unique and authentic coffee shop experience.
5. Sweet Bean
Sweet Bean is a Taiwanese cafe that offers a variety of delicious treats and coffee. The cafe has a relaxed atmosphere and ample seating for customers to eat and work.
Sweet Bean is known for its authentic Taiwanese pastries, buns, and rolls, which are all made in-house.
Customers can also choose from a selection of beverages, including matcha and hojicha lattes.
The staff are friendly and prices are reasonable. Sweet Bean is a great spot for anyone looking for a tasty snack or drink in a cozy atmosphere.
6. Sipping Turtle Cafe
Sipping Turtle Cafe is a cozy coffee shop that offers a variety of matcha drinks. The menu is interesting and not overwhelming, with enough options to satisfy any matcha lover.
The cafe also offers metal straws with their drinks in mason jars, which is a great environmentally friendly practice.
The atmosphere is relaxing and perfect for studying or chatting with friends. The staff is friendly and the service is quick.
If you're looking for a place to enjoy a delicious matcha latte, Sipping Turtle Cafe is definitely worth a visit.
7. Brew Brew Coffee and Tea
Brew Brew Coffee and Tea is a cozy and independent coffee shop that offers a variety of delicious drinks and food.
The friendly baristas serve up well-balanced coffee and lattes, while the pastries and breakfast sandwiches are satisfying.
The decor is warm and inviting, with comfortable seating options and ample sunlight. The cafe also has free Wi-Fi and clean bathrooms.
It can get crowded, but it's a great spot to work or catch up with friends while sipping on a spot-on cold brew or matcha latte.
8. Sweetwaters Coffee & Tea
If you're looking for a cozy spot to enjoy a cup of matcha, Sweetwaters Coffee & Tea is the place to be.
With a wide variety of teas available, you're sure to find something that suits your taste. The staff is knowledgeable and always ready to offer recommendations.
The cafe also offers a great selection of baked goods and light bites to pair with your drink.
The atmosphere is stylish and relaxed, making it the perfect spot to catch up with friends or get some work done. Don't miss out on this local chain's delicious matcha and other drinks.
9. Metric
Metric is a must-visit coffee shop for matcha lovers. They offer high-quality matcha that is both delicious and refreshing.
The staff is friendly and knowledgeable, and the industrial-chic atmosphere adds to the overall experience.
While seating is limited, the grab-and-go option is perfect for those on the go.
If you're looking for a great place for matcha, Metric is definitely worth checking out.
10. HERO Coffee Bar
HERO Coffee Bar offers a unique coffee experience with a funky atmosphere and farm-to-table sandwiches.
They have a range of options to customize your latte, including matcha with cherry syrup.
The staff is friendly and attentive, and they offer meat and dairy alternatives. Prices are reasonable for the downtown area.
If you're looking for a laid-back coffee spot with great breakfast options, HERO Coffee Bar is worth checking out.
11. Momentum Coffee
Looking for a great place for matcha in the city that also serves delicious coffee and pastries to pair with your drink of choice?
Look no further than Momentum Coffee! This popular spot offers a cozy and inviting atmosphere perfect for catching up with friends or getting some work done.
The baristas are friendly, the service is prompt, and the matcha latte is a must-try.
They also have a variety of unique teas and seasonal drinks to choose from. The pastries are fresh and tasty, making them the perfect accompaniment to your drink.
With fast Wi-Fi and a shared workspace, Momentum Coffee is a great spot to relax and get some work done while enjoying a delicious drink.
12. Chiqueolatte
Chiqueolatte is a coffee shop that offers a variety of food and drink options.
The matcha latte is a favorite among customers. The staff is friendly and accommodating.
The cafe has a unique aesthetic and is well-decorated. The food is tasty and the coffee is delicious.
The atmosphere is pleasant and inviting. Chiqueolatte is a great place to stop for a quick bite or a relaxing cup of coffee.
13. Good Ambler
Good Ambler is a fantastic spot for matcha lovers. Along with an impressive selection of pastries, chocolates, and coffees, they offer delicious iced matcha and chai lattes.
The space inside is large and comfortable, making it perfect for working or studying.
The customer service is excellent, and the staff is friendly and accommodating.
Additionally, the atmosphere is well-appointed and modern, making it an ideal place to relax and enjoy a cup of matcha.
14. Peet's Coffee
Peet's Coffee offers a variety of matcha drinks alongside their signature coffee and tea.
The cozy atmosphere and friendly service make it a great spot to grab a quick drink or stay awhile and get some work done.
With convenient hours and a central location, Peet's Coffee is a great choice for matcha lovers on the go.
15. Colectivo Coffee – Wicker Park
Colectivo Coffee – Wicker Park is a versatile place for matcha lovers. They offer a great selection of non-coffee drinks, including creative matcha drinks that are sure to satisfy.
The staff is knowledgeable and friendly, and the atmosphere is cozy and inviting.
The outdoor seating area is a great spot to enjoy a matcha latte on a sunny day. If you're looking for a place to work, there are plenty of tables and free Wifi available.
Colectivo Coffee – Wicker Park is definitely worth checking out for matcha enthusiasts.
16. Fairgrounds Coffee & Tea
Fairgrounds Coffee & Tea is a hip and trendy cafe that caters to coffee and tea lovers alike. They offer a wide variety of matcha drinks that are sure to satisfy your cravings.
The cafe is located in a beautiful building and has a calm and relaxing atmosphere that's perfect for taking a break from the hustle and bustle of the city.
The staff is friendly and knowledgeable, making it easy to find the perfect drink to suit your taste.
If you're looking for a unique and eclectic coffee shop experience, Fairgrounds Coffee & Tea is definitely worth a visit.
17. Dollop Coffee Co
Dollop Coffee Co is a must-visit for matcha lovers. They offer a variety of coffee and tea flavors, but their matcha latte is the star of the menu.
The creamy, rich, and perfectly sweetened matcha latte is a treat for taste buds. The cozy and welcoming atmosphere of the coffee shop makes it a great spot to relax and enjoy a cup of matcha.
The friendly staff and fast wifi make it a perfect place for a quick meeting or to get work done.
Don't forget to try their freshly baked pastries and sandwiches. Dollop Coffee Co is a gem for matcha enthusiasts and coffee lovers alike.
