You don’t have to be a self-diagnosed ‘performative male’ to have noticed that matcha has officially taken over Edinburgh’s café scene. From minimalist Japanese teahouses to Caffè Neros, matcha and all its variants have been all over café menus and honestly, I’m not mad about it. So whether you are a ceremonial-grade matcha purist or are simply looking for your next matcha latte with oat milk, here are some of Edinburgh’s best matcha spots.
Blasted to fame by Blackpink’s Lisa, HeyTea is the newest addition to Edinburgh’s matcha scene. Located along South Bridge, this Chinese tea brand has made waves across Asia and is finally in Edinburgh. In store, you will find their crowd favourites like the Triple Supreme Matcha Latte and Matcha Cloud Coconut Blue with its decadent and delicious matcha clouds. Plus, seasonal drinks such as the latest Wicked themed matcha with a pink dragonfruit cloud. Starting from £4.50, these matchas are a splurge, but a must try.
Need a mid-study caffeine fix? Fluffee, right along Newington road is the place to be. Their matcha lattes are smooth and balanced, but if you are not ready to betray your espresso habit, they have got cool coffee combinations too. If you’re lucky, you may be greeted at the door by their actual fluffball of a corgi! Good drinks, good vibes, and a very good boy, all included at Fluffee.
Over on Leith Walk, Ante is one of Edinburgh’s coolest café spots. Known for their inventive food and drink combinations, their ever-changing seasonal drink menu is what sets them apart. Think inventive matcha blends infused with flavours that shift with the seasons, from floral lavender notes in spring, to cosy autumn spice blends, each drink feels like a reflection of nature’s mood board. Paired with one of their beautifully plated brunch dishes, it is the perfect weekend treat for any matcha loving friends.
This next spot is definitely a hidden gem; though on Princes Street, Katsute 100 is nestled within the Uniqlo store. This Japanese teahouse presents a selection of ceremonial-grade matcha, loose leaf teas, tea lattes, and a divine selection of matcha cakes and treats for those with a sweet tooth. An ideal pit stop after shopping and a great matcha spot all in one.
So good I almost gatekept it, Puddings might just be Edinburgh’s best matcha spot. The charming pink-fronted café near Pollock Halls is decked out with Studio Ghibli puzzles and paintings, a cosy corner and seriously amazing matcha that will get you feeling all warm and snuggly on the inside. For cheesecake lovers like me, prepare yourselves, as their daily selection of cakes is unmatched. From crowd favourites like Strawberry Shortcake to Black Sesame or Hojicha Basque Cheesecakes, every slice is perfection.
So whether you want to give your matcha bowl and whisk a day off or are looking to hop on the trend, Edinburgh’s cafes have got you covered.
Illustration by Erika Bunjevac
