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When it comes to Japanese teas, matcha has been the poster child for years—but there’s another green tea making waves in Vancouver: hojicha. While matcha boasts a vibrant green hue and a bold, grassy flavour, hojicha plays it cool with its roasted leaves, a caramel colour, and a toasty, nutty taste. But the real game-changer? Hojicha has significantly less caffeine, making it the perfect pick-you-up that won’t leave you jittery (or questioning your life choices at 3am). Trust us, it’s a brew worth buzzing about—even if that buzz is ever so gentle.

Cowdog

The hojicha latte is a standout at Cowdog, crafted from Kyoto-sourced hojicha that is roasted to perfection for a deep, cocoa-hued cup. Want to bring the cafe experience home? The coffee shop’s tins of premium hojicha powder make it easy to create your own lattes, while the white chocolate hojicha cookie adds an extra dose of indulgence. 3720 Oak Street.

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Paragon Tea Room

At Paragon Tea Room, the Obsidian Hojicha Latte showcases the artistry of stone-milled autumn bancha hojicha from Kagoshima. With a velvety texture and subtle sweetness, this latte is perfect for those who appreciate a handcrafted tea experience. 3361 Cambie Street.

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Fife Bakery

Known for its artisan bread and rustic charm, Fife Bakery offers a hojicha milk tea that’s a comforting delight. Featuring roasted green tea with a nutty, earthy depth, it’s the ideal companion to one of the cafe’s signature pastries—think buttery croissants or spiced seasonal muffins. Served hot or iced, this drink is a must-try. 64 East 3rd Avenue.

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Lumine Coffee

While Lumine Coffee is a go-to for expertly crafted coffee, the hojicha latte is a quiet contender for top sip. Made with roasted green tea, it has a smooth, nutty flavour and is available both hot and iced. 103-1965 West 4th Avenue.

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O-Five Rare Tea Bar

At O-Five Rare Tea Bar, the Hojicha for Kombucha blend offers warm notes of caramel and apples, making it a versatile choice for crafting your own kombucha or enjoying on its own. With kits available for first-time brewers, O-Five helps you bring tea culture home. 2208 West 4th Avenue.

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