There is nothing worse than paying $8 for a matcha only to be met with a pale, grassy concoction that dishonors the matcha name. And the worst part is there’s no knowing what to expect until it’s too late. Lucky for you, I’ve spent half my salary surveying D.C.’s many matcha options so you don’t have to. These are my top spots.
✨ What’s In a Good Matcha?
For those of you new to the game. Good matcha should have a mild sweet and earthy flavor with a bright green color. If it’s tasting bitter or looking milky and yellow, it means the cafe added too little matcha or it was low quality matcha powder.
Spot of Tea (Dupont/Union Market/Georgetown)
A crowd favorite, Spot of Tea has possibly the best quality matcha in D.C. and doesn’t mess around when it comes to flavors. Taro matcha, red bean matcha, mango matcha, you name it, they have it.
Little Hat Coffee (14th Street Corridor)
The baristas never miss at this standing-only cafe inside Streets Market. The matcha is dark green and whisked to microfoam-perfection every time. Try the yuzu matcha lemonade for the perfect summer refresh.
The Royal (Shaw)
I was not a real matcha convert until I tried the strawberry matcha at The Royal. Perfectly balanced and not too sweet, sadly not even the $8 price tag can keep me from coming here far too often.
Matcha from Lost Sock Coffee. (Kaela Cote-Stemmermann/City Cast DC)
Lost Sock Coffee Roasters (Takoma Park)
They say it’s impossible to do everything well, but nobody told Lost Sock. Their matcha latte is just as good as their espresso drinks (dare I say, better?) You can combine it with their housemade syrups (try the bergamot) or just take it unsweetened.
Blank Street Coffee (West End/Georgetown)
Look, is this just a yuppified Starbucks? Yes. Am I saying you should go here over a local cafe, absolutely not. But if you’re looking for a large selection of vibrant (exceedingly sweet) matchas, or are just dipping your toe in the matcha world, this is the spot. They have flavors like PB&J, strawberry shortbread, and blueberry.
Grounded (Anacostia)
A newcomer to the scene, this plant shop/wellness studio/cafe is fully plant-based and has a great selection of alternative lattes. They don’t skimp on the matcha-to-milk ratio. The grounded matcha with vanilla, pistachio, and pea flower is an easy 10/10.
Ellé (Mt. Pleasant)
This one is an honorable mention. Elle makes a great matcha latte, but the experience is really made complete by pairing it with one of their breakfast sandwiches and sitting outside on the patio.
