What started as a personal passion for matcha has grown into a fast-rising brand redefining how Filipinos enjoy the drink. Maison Midori, founded by content creator and entrepreneur Caitlin Lee, aims to bring authentic, high-quality Japanese matcha powder line to the local market without the high price tag.

Caitlin Lee, content creator and Maison Midori founder. PHOTOS FORM MAISON MIDORI

Maison Midori’s story traces back to July 2024, when Lee decided to turn her long-standing passion for matcha into a business. The inspiration came years earlier, when she first tasted matcha at age 15 during a family trip to Japan. Her later experience as an exchange student in Lille, France, solidified the dream.

According to Lee, the name Maison Midori reflects the dual influences that shaped the brand.

“Maison means ‘house’ in French, and Midori means ‘green’ in Japanese. It’s a mix of both worlds — the French café culture that inspired me and the Japanese heritage of matcha itself,” Lee said in an interview.

Lee’s dedication to authenticity extends to her sourcing process. Maison Midori’s matcha comes from two renowned Japanese provinces — Uji, known as the birthplace of matcha, and Wazuka, an emerging region producing top-grade teas.

Maison Midori’s Maroyaka Okumidori and Tenshi Samidori variants.

“I think every matcha is different because there are so many cultivars. But what makes a matcha good is how it’s grown and covered. The ones you see in open fields are just green tea — only the covered leaves become matcha. That’s how you know it’s high quality,” she explained.

Maison Midori’s first blend, Tenshi Samidori, is made from a Samidori cultivar.

Lee, aims to bring authentic, high-quality Japanese matcha powder line to the local market without the high price tag.

“I wanted something you could drink every day. It’s smooth, comforting and not too bitter. I’ve been trying to find a nutty variant too, but it’s really hard to source — that’s my next goal,” Lee said.

She travels to Japan twice a year to work with growers and explore new cultivars.

“We limit it to twice a year since matcha leaves only grow in the middle of the year. During winter, there’s no harvest — that’s why some people think there’s a matcha shortage. But smaller farms still have plenty. I want to help promote those local Japanese producers,” she proudly noted.

Maison Midori officially launched in November 2024, and it quickly gained traction. During one of its first major events, the Soirée Bazaar, the brand sold over 500 drinks — a clear sign that Filipinos were ready for quality matcha.

As the matcha craze continues to grow in the Philippines, Lee remains optimistic and focused.

“I’m happy that more cafés are offering matcha now. Before, it was rare to find. Now, people appreciate it more, and that helps small matcha farms too,” she said.

When asked if she plans to incorporate local flavors, Lee shared her excitement for the idea.

“Definitely. I’d love to experiment with Filipino flavors once I have more time,” she said.

Maison Midori products are available through MaisonMidori.com and at select pop-ups, including Soirée Bazaar in Rockwell this October and December. Prices start at P990 for 40 grams of premium matcha. Variants include Tenshi Samidori (40g), Maroyaka Okumidori (30g), and the limited-edition Fukami Matcha (30g).