A “Matcha” Made in Heaven

By Kathleen Mest

Photos by Monique Kuhlman

Matcha is a green tea, but instead of being steeped like most teas, the leaves are dried and ground into a fine powder. With lower caffeine levels than coffee, matcha is a great substitution when you want to stay alert without the caffeine jitters. And bonus, matcha is high in antioxidants and may provide a myriad of other health benefits.

However, not all matcha is created equal. For beverages, look for ceremonial grade/premium matcha powder. It’s vibrant green and will provide rich, nutty and earthy flavors.

B.A. Matcha

Coffee Parlor

2944 Clark Ave, 90815

@copalb

COPA’s (Coffee Parlor’s nickname) seasonal matcha offerings include their B.A. Matcha: organic ceremonial grade matcha and housemade blueberry syrup with hints of almond and lemon. With layers of flavor, partner this drink with a bite from their scratch kitchen menu.

Matcha Rose Latte

Ground Hideout

356 E. 4th St, 90802

@groundhideoutlb

This Matcha Rose Latte easily wins for the prettiest drink. Made with ceremonial grade matcha, housemade rose syrup, and topped with edible dried rose petals, it is a floral delight. Enjoy this matcha with a fresh baked treat in the airy, sunlit shop founded by the Bonilla family.

Pistachio Vanilla Matcha

Wood Coffee Co

2728 E. 10th St, 90804

@woodcoffeeco

The Pistachio Vanilla Matcha is made with Spirit Tea Matcha, vanilla syrup and pistachio milk. It’s a smooth blend of nutty and earthy flavors. Sip and relax in this plant-based coffee shop with calm vibes of woods, flora, and warm tones created by owner, Nolan Wood.

Matcha & Honey Latté

Wide Eyes Open Palms

416 Cherry Ave, 90802 | @wideeyesopenpalms

WEOP’s Matcha & Honey Latté is a light and refreshing creation with organic premium grade matcha, sweetened with local honey, and I recommend adding the housemade almond-cashew milk made by owner/barista Angie. Then grab a seat on the parklet and enjoy it with an irresistible biscuit sandwich with locally sourced eggs or an airy frittata made by owner/chef Kat.

Matcha Tonic

Wolf’s Brew

4145 Norse Way, 90808

@wolfsbrew_lb

Sparkling and perfect on a warm day, the Matcha Tonic is ceremonial grade matcha poured over Fever-Tree tonic, a touch of brown sugar, and garnished with a dehydrated lime wheel. Chill inside where brothers Bryer (owner) and Jay (manager and roaster) provide a cool vibe in the backroom showcasing art and merchandise from local artists and vendors.