Features editor Yasmin Jafar explored London to taste and review different matcha lattes and desserts.
As a big tea and coffee drinker, I thought nothing could lessen my love for these beverages. However, I recently delved into the world of matcha drinks, which more and more London cafes are starting to offer, alongside enticing matcha-based desserts. I took on the task of discovering where you can find the best matcha lattes and desserts in the City.
1. Katsute 100 – 5/5 stars
A cosy Japanese tearoom tucked away in Camden Passage in Islington, Katsute did not disappoint. Serving a variety of Japanese loose-leaf teas and desserts, there was a lot to choose from. I ordered a matcha latte and a delicious looking matcha crepe cake.
The matcha latte was one of the best I’ve ever tasted; smooth and creamy, with a distinct matcha flavour that wasn’t too overwhelming and had a perfect balance of sweetness. When I reached the bottom of the cup, I didn’t taste that bitter, unpleasant aftertaste you get when the tea isn’t mixed properly. It cost a very reasonable £3.95, and each sip was divine. The matcha cake was so light, it melted in my mouth. It had a very gentle taste that went perfectly with the latte. It cost £6.95 and was very filling.
2. Kova Patisserie – 4/5
This café is opposite the South Kensington tube station, with gorgeous patisseries on offer. I ordered the classic matcha latte and an interesting-looking matcha tart.
The matcha was very smooth and definitely stronger than the one at Katsute but was quite small for its price (£4.60). Also, once I got mid-way through the drink, you could see and taste green chunks of unmixed matcha paste. This slightly ruined the tasting experience, especially considering its price. The tart, was the star of the show. It had a sweet-tasting matcha cream and filling with perfect consistency, and cost £6.
3. Maybe Matcha 0/5
I had high hopes for this café as it has a lovely location just off Marylebone High Street. But this matcha was very disappointing and a huge waste of money. Given the tacky design of the café, with garish pink neon signs, I should’ve known.
Despite its appealing appearance, this cup cost £4.50 and didn’t taste of matcha at all. It was barely green, except the froth on top, and was so milky, it was like drinking a cup of steamed milk.
The desserts looked so sad and stale I didn’t bother getting one. Judging from the poor quality of the drink, this was a good decision.
4. JENKI 2/5
JENKI can be found in Spitalfields, not far from the market. The matcha latte had a good flavour but wasn’t smooth and was far more watery than I’d expected.
The sizing was also confusing – I paid £4 but the cup was half-full. It also lacked sweetness and towards the end of the drink, there was a more bitter, grassy taste where it hadn’t been mixed properly.
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