Know all about the green powder

Matcha, meaning “powdered tea,” is Japan’s beloved green elixir, celebrated not just for its smooth umami flavour but also for its incredible health benefits. Unlike steeped teas, matcha involves consuming the whole leaf in powdered form, offering a potent punch of antioxidants—137 times more than regular green tea. Though matcha is deeply rooted in Japanese culture, its story began in China’s Tang dynasty before a Zen Buddhist monk carried it to Japan over 900 years ago. There, it became an integral part of meditative rituals and the highly refined tea ceremony.

Lately Assam—better known for its robust black teas—is stepping into the world of matcha, blending ancient tradition with Indian terroir. It’s a bold new brew that invites tea lovers to sip mindfully and discover a fresh take on an age-old ritual.

Matcha- Photogenic yet flavourful.

Matcha coffee, or the ever trendy matcha latte, is quickly becoming a staple in India’s evolving café culture. With its vibrant emerald hue — a gift from the chlorophyll-rich tea leaves — this drink is as photogenic as it is flavourful. Dipesh Darjee, Head Chef, Yuki, Bengaluru adds “Matcha has long been a staple in Japanese cuisine, and its international popularity is no surprise. In India, though, it needed a slower introduction—first through lattes that helped ease people into its unique flavour, then as a dusting for desserts, and eventually earning its own space in menus. Social media accelerated this journey and the aspirational lifestyle cues from Gen Z created a ripple effect that made it more desirable than ever”.

When it comes to experimentation with this green tea, Bengaluru is leading the race with Matcha French toast at Nasi and Mee or the Matcha bingsu at Homiga or the Strawberry Matcha Latte at Sakura Matcha Bar and the iconic Matcha Cupcake at Magnolia Bakery.

Touted as a natural energy booster, matcha coffee resonates deeply with India’s on-the-go millennials and Gen Z. It’s also winning favour among the health-conscious crowd, especially vegans and fitness enthusiasts, thanks to its dairy-free, plant-powered profile. Adding to the fact, how long will it last Jeethu Kandathil, COO at Dolci, Bengaluru says “We see matcha as a lasting trend rather than a fleeting fad. Its appeal goes beyond aesthetics—it’s the health benefits, the unique taste, and its culinary adaptability that ensure it stays relevant. Matcha has been around for centuries, and while awareness is only recently catching on widely, it’s clear that it’s here to stay”.

From Matcha Latte calm to Matcha Martini charm

Mixologists are experimenting with matcha to create unique cocktails, often using its earthy, slightly bitter flavour profile to complement various spirits and flavours. Mohit Badh, Bar Manager, Call Me Ten, Delhi who had added this Japanese superfood to his cocktails, says, “We wanted to introduce drinks that feel like a natural extension of our izakaya-style experience. The idea was to bring a unique twist while still feeling very ‘us.’ So, we came up with two drinks that really stand out: a refreshing Mango Matcha Latte and a smooth, indulgent Espresso Martini. Both blend Japanese influences with a fun, modern flair. Must say the Espresso Martini has quickly become one of our top-selling cocktails , it’s a real crowd-pleaser”.

Even now, though Matcha might still be an acquired taste, but the right mix in the right way makes it love at first sip. From nutritionists to lifestyle influencers, feeds are flooded with matcha recipes, glowing health claims, and aesthetic green lattes — all fueling its rise as a modern wellness essential. As India starts catching on to matcha’s feel-good vibes, we’re here to cheer it on—right next to your favourite cup of coffee.