We love Matcha! Made with finely ground green tea leaves, this rich, umami drink boasts a wide range of health benefits – it’s packed with antioxidants and gives the same energising boost as a cup of coffee but with less caffeine. Whether you’re already a fan or want to try its green goodness for the first time, here’s where to find Matcha in York.

La Bottega Milanese, New Street

Boasting an interior that embodies the chic, sophisticated style that the Italian city is famous for, La Bottega Milanese offers a tantalising taste of true Milanese café culture. It’s known for its signature blend of coffee and fresh pastries but it also serves Matcha, which can be bought hot or iced to drink in or take away.

Images: @labottegamilanese, @driftinyork, @ippukuteahouse

Ippuku Tea House, Blake Street

This authentic Japanese tea house serves its Matcha in a traditional bowl. You can try a strong and complex straight Matcha here, although Ippuku advises that this is not for the faint hearted! Alternatively, you can opt for an invigorating hot or iced Matcha latte, or enjoy the vibrant power in desserts such as Matcha butter cups or a Matcha and mango roll.

The Savvy Baker, Swinegate

Best known for its deliciously gooey brownies, The Savvy Baker came to York last year. At its Swinegate store, you’ll find a regularly-changing selection of sweet treats, along with some seriously insta-worthy drinks. These include Matcha, which has featured in seasonal specials like a winter banana bread Matcha or summer blueberry and raspberry iced versions.

Lè Speciality, Fossgate

Also situated on Fossgate, this unique Asian-fusion café opened last June and it sells nutritious and flavourful brunch and lunch dishes, along with indulgent topped ‘croffles’. Many of Lè Speciality’s drinks can’t be found anywhere else in the city, such as its refreshingly zesty yuzu Matcha, which can be served sparkling in the summer.

Bird & Blend Tea Co., Low Petergate

If you’d like to be able to prepare your own Matcha at home, Bird & Blend Tea Co.’s range has something for everyone, from ceremonial grade or a health-boosting ‘super Matcha’ to Matcha flavoured with buttermint, lemon, salted caramel or even birthday cake. If you’re still learning how to craft the perfect cup, you can ask the shop’s mixologists for advice or attend one of their Matcha lock-ins.

Rise, Fossgate

With modern pastel decor and a diverse menu, Rise is just the place to recover after a night out or prepare for a busy day ahead with a proper breakfast. This all-day brunch restaurant serves hot and cold Matcha lattes, as well as an iced Matcha made with blueberries – the ultimate breakfast fruit. These can be enjoyed alone or as an accompaniment to dishes like Turkish eggs or sweet cinnamon French toast.

Drift-In, High Ousegate

This laid back Independent café has a food offering that will please both the health-conscious and those who’d like to indulge. You can stop for breakfast here or tuck into grilled sandwiches and salads later on. Drift-In uses Blendsmiths Matcha, which can be served hot with your choice of milk, including plant-based options. It also sells a delicious Matcha vanilla frappe.

Kiosk, Fossgate

Small yet perfectly formed, Kiosk describes itself as a ‘tiny cafe serving big tasting coffee in a silly old building’. This relaxed coffee shop is centrally located in a spot that’s perfect for people watching or taking a well-deserved break from exploring the city. Its food offering includes filling sarnies on fluffy focaccia and homemade cakes, while its drinks menu features a warming Matcha latte.