The best spots to get your matcha fix in Singapore

No matcha listicle would be complete without Hvala. It’s no contest the popular chain offers some of the best matcha in Singapore, with a wide selection of matcha powders ranging from premium grade to even ceremonial grade matcha. While pricey, the hana matcha is a must-try. You can have it straight ($10.90) to taste its full flavour profile, or have it as a latte ($12.90). The robust flavour pairs perfectly with fresh milk, and while we usually like our matcha lattes slightly sweetened, we thoroughly enjoy the hana matcha latte without sugar.

Trust us when we say that we go to Daylight Coffee to get one of its iced matcha lattes every week without fail. After all, being located at Amoy Street Food Centre, it’s just a stone’s throw away from our office, and offers quality brews at affordable prices. Daylight Coffee’s matcha latte is rich, creamy, and sweet without being overly cloying. The best part? It’s super affordable. A hot matcha latte costs $4, while an iced matcha latte will set you back $4.50. Matcha mega fans (like us) can even upsize their drink for an extra dollar, meaning you’d be spending just $5.50 for a large iced matcha latte.

True to its roots, Tsujiri imports its star ingredient from Kyoto prefecture’s Uji region – one of the most famous locales for green tea – for its popular matcha drinks and desserts. Sip on the usual matcha latte (from $6.50), or opt for the thirst-quenching matcha ice blended (from $6.50). If you have a sweet tooth, have your drink with a scoop of matcha soft serve ($7.80). Those who simply can’t get enough of matcha should also try the matcha chiffon cake and matcha parfaits ($8.80).

On days where we aren’t at Daylight Coffee, you can find us at Mad Roaster. Mad Roaster’s matcha latte is pretty decent ($4.40), but what we always go for is its dirty matcha ($5.40) – where the usual matcha latte is mixed with a shot of espresso. The bitter espresso blends well with the matcha’s bright taste, resulting in the perfect pick-me-up on sluggish days. If you’re craving a sweet treat, we recommend getting one of Mad Roaster’s nutella-stuffed cookies ($3) and dipping it in the dirty matcha – it’s one of our favourite post-lunch dessert options.

This Japanese-inspired café located in the heart of the CBD offers some of the best matcha in Singapore. Kyo Kohee serves three types of ceremonial grade matcha – asahi, tenmyo, and okumidori. We particularly love the tenmyo matcha (from $7.90) for its mellowness and slightly sweet flavour profile. If you’re really into tea, we recommend the mahou latte ($7.90), which consists of matcha, houjicha, and milk. The result: a bold and flavourful taste that is so addicting that you’ll finish your drink in seconds.

Matchaya’s matcha lattes (from $6) are thick and intense, which make them the perfect drinks for those who prefer stronger flavours. Of course, if you prefer a sweeter matcha latte, opt for the matcha chokoreto ($6.70), or the matcha azuki (from $6.20); both mellow out the bold flavour of the matcha. Otherwise, go for the affogato ($10), where ceremonial matcha is poured over a soft serve flavour of your choice, resulting in a rich and indulgent dessert.

On days where we feel like we deserve a treat, we head down to Hellu Coffee to get one of its signature creamu lattes. You do pay a pretty penny for one of these lattes, with a matcha creamu starting at $7.50, but that dollop of housemade sweet cream adds a depth to the typical matcha latte which you cannot get anywhere else. The sweet cream balances out the bitterness of the matcha perfectly, and creates a thicker consistency that results in a decadent dessert-drink.

Less is more at Bugis’ newest specialty coffee and matcha bar, Calligraph Coffee. Located in Duo Galleria, this minimalist spot puts Japan-imported matcha front and centre. Aficionados will want to try the café’s ceremonial-grade Zen usucha ($8.20), best enjoyed on its own for you to fully appreciate its delicate earthy bitterness. If you’re more of a latte person, get the best seller Wa blend ($6.20) where bitterness and tannins are balanced with milk and sugar. Alternatively, the Sen hojicha blend makes for a good pick-me-up with its smoky, full-bodied, and nutty profile that’s ideal on its own ($5.20) or in a latte ($6.20).