The Matcha Tokyo opens in SM Mall of Asia. Handout

Matcha is having its moment all across the world, successfully transitioning from a superfood and cultural delicacy to a mainstream cafe offering.

In the Philippines, the matcha train appears to be steadily keeping its pace, with a growing audience of Filipino matcha drinkers that are more discriminating about the quality, provenance and flavor of the matcha they consume, and the rise of online purveyors of ceremonial matcha and teaware, as well as dedicated places that cater to the matcha-obsessed.

Easily the most ubiquitous player in this niche is The Matcha Tokyo, a cafe under the helm of the Tasteless Food Group, which recently marked its 12th branch with the opening of its flagship store at SM Mall of Asia, Pasay City.

Amidst the current shortage of high quality matcha driven by global demand, The Matcha Tokyo is able to maintain a consistent supply of premium organic matcha across their stores because of a long-term relationship with Japanese tea farmers.

Global matcha 'obsession' drinks Japan tea farms dry

“The brand was actually founded on a mission to support the farmers by ensuring they receive a fair price for their crops,” reveals Anna Paw, chief financial officer of the Tasteless Food Group. “From this noble cause came a remarkable outcome: the ability to grow a consistent, high quality supply of organic matcha that offers a rich flavor with the highest levels of nutrients and antioxidants. This is what we enjoy today in each cup of The Matcha Tokyo.”

The store has a zen rock garden. Blooey Singson

More than just riding a trend, The Matcha Tokyo enhances the appreciation of matcha and the cultural experience with its specially designed space at their new flagship, which places the minimalist Japanese aesthetic against the background of Manila Bay.

The 60-seater store is anchored by a zen rock garden or “karesansui” as its centerpiece, with free-flowing lines adorning the walls and counters to represent the motion of the waves. The main counter curves in front, showcasing the traditional tea ceremony, while a central green zone lined with trees and lounge seating is illuminated by a skylight, evoking a serene space that invites guests to pause and relax over a cup of tea.

The Matcha Tokyo MOA debuts a Matcha Experience (Hojicha Experience is also available), wherein guests are guided on whisking their own tea to make a latte, with an accompanying dessert sampler featuring a shortbread-style butter cookie, soft warabi mochi in syrup, a matcha madeleine, and rich cookie butter Basque cheesecake. 

Matcha Experience. Blooey Singson

The experience is a nod to Japanese tradition, wherein matcha is served with a selection of desserts to complement the deep flavor of the tea. Sweetener is served separately, while plant milk options are available at an additional cost. 

Notable menu exclusives for the MOA branch are the Ensaymatcha, a matcha twist on the Filipino merienda favorite; the Mont Blanc toast, a thick toast topped with a ‘mountain’ composed of matcha chestnut paste and matcha ice cream; and Steamed Bread with Butter, which are soft, fluffy shokupan served with a delightful medley of luxurious flavored butters: shoyu, matcha, and sweet potato.

Mont Blanc Toast. Blooey Singson

Steamed Bread with Butter. Blooey Singson

Also on the exclusive menu are savory paninis in chicken teriyaki, vegetarian, tuna, turkey ham avocado, smoked salmon and pastrami, as well as yogurt bowls in blueberry mango and strawberry banana flavors.

The Matcha Tokyo is located at the 3rd Floor, Main Mall, SM Mall of Asia, Pasay City.