There’s something special about holding a warm mug of matcha in the hands. Maybe it’s the calming green color, maybe the earthy aroma or maybe it’s the gentle buzz that makes one mindfully focused. For me, sitting in a cozy café, sipping on a creamy matcha latte – like I did this morning – is one of those tiny habits that brings me joy, presence and a touch of luxury. Drinking matcha latte can be either a daily ritual or just a mindful moment with a vibrant green cup of goodness. Somehow I do not like to have it on a daily basis, but love to drink it up to 2 times a week. And exactly then, when I do reach for that drink, it feels like a wonder.

I know matcha since years now, even before it got so hyped here in Switzerland. And I am still in awe about it’s taste and positive effects on me and my body: it gives me sustained, calm energy, plus it helps me with focus and clarity. And I was actually asking myself, if others also feel the same about it. But first, let me explain what I know about matcha: what it is and why do so many of us fall in love with it.

Matcha is a finely grounded powder made from specially grown green tea leaves. Unlike regular green tea, where you steep and discard the leaves, with matcha you actually consume the whole leaf – so you’re getting all the nutrients, antioxidants and that subtle caffeine kick in one green sip. It’s been a part of Japanese culture for centuries, traditionally prepared during the cha-no-yu tea ceremonies (literally “hot water for tea”) as a way to connect, slow down and be fully present. And that energy seems to be still alive in the modern cup we sip today around the world. In addition it is used in some dishes, e.g. soba noodles, cookies, ice cream or other desserts.

Why is matcha so special?

Unlike coffee, matcha contains L-theanine, an amino acid that promotes calmness and focus. Thanks to it, the caffeine in matcha is released slowly into the bloodstream. The combination of L-theanine with the moderate amount of caffeine creates what many call a “calm alertness.” You feel awake, but not wired. Energized, but grounded. Perfect for easing into your day or giving you a mindful midday boost. Moreover, matcha is also rich in antioxidants that fights free radicals in your body, especially EGCG (epigallocatechin gallate). This one supports cellular health, boosts metabolism and strengthens the immune system. On top of that, research suggests that matcha may help protect the liver – the body’s detox center – by supporting its function and reducing damage from toxins. It’s also been linked to improved cholesterol levels and lower blood pressure, which helps support your heart health long-term.

A ritual or just a drink?

What I personally like most about matcha is the way of preparing it, which feels like ritual itself. Enjoying it is another thing for me. Taking time to sit in a café, hands wrapped around a warm mug of matcha latte – especially one made with creamy coconut or soy milk – is something I genuinely look forward to. It’s my little green pause. A moment of quiet. A soft restart.

Sometimes I prepare this drink at home, too. But no matter if I treat myself at my own place or while beeing out – it somehow always feels like an act of self-care and a reminder to slow down and enjoy something healthy. For me, matcha isn’t just a trend. It’s a whole experience. One that blends mindfulness, nourishment and pleasure into one vibrant cup. It might be your new favorite companion, too, if you’re looking for a gentle way to fuel your body, mind and soul.

Currently, there is several products with matcha that are available on the market:

• Hot Matcha Latte (best with oat, soy or coconut milk for a creamy treat)
• Iced Matcha with ice cubes for warmer days
• Ceremonial Grade Matcha Powder – high-quality matcha for traditional tea preparation
• Matcha Latte Mix – Pre-blended with coconut milk, oat milk or a touch of sweetness for easy lattes
• Ready-to-Drink Matcha Iced Teas – bottled matcha teas, often blended with lemon, ginger or mint.
• Matcha Energy Shots – small concentrated drinks with matcha + adaptogens or vitamins.
• Matcha Smoothies for an antioxidant-packed snack
• Matcha Energy Balls if you’re into healthy treats
• Matcha Chocolate – dark, white, or milk chocolate infused with matcha.
• Matcha KitKats – cult favorite from Japan!
• Matcha Cookies/Biscuits – from crispy matcha shortbread to chewy matcha chocolate chip cookies
• Matcha Protein Bars – often blended with dates, nuts or plant-based protein for a healthy snack
• Matcha Ice Cream – creamy, slightly bitter-sweet and earthy – a must-try!
• Matcha Cheesecake & other cakes – popular in cafés and bakeries.
• Matcha Mochi – soft, chewy rice cakes with a matcha twist
• and some more..

Matcha has become super popular in recent years – you’ll find it in plenty of products, not just as a drink, but in all kinds of delicious and sometimes unexpected food creations.

However, if you’ve never tried it, I recommend trying it as a drink from a good café first – see how they blend it, what milk they use and how the flavor feels for you. Then you can start playing with it at home and see how you like it most. Try it. Sip it. Enjoy it. Whether as your morning ritual, a creative boost at work or a pause in the day..

And if you already know this drink, then now it’s your turn: what’s your favorite matcha spot in the city? Do you have a go-to café that makes it just right or do you prefer making your own dreamy matcha latte at home? Or maybe you use it in the kitchen for some little treats?

Share your fave places or recipes below – I am always on the lookout for new spots and stuff to try!