Matcha in KL: what’s with the obsession, and best places to drink

It’s more than just a trend at this point.

It’s more than just a trend at this point. Matcha, a type of finely ground tea powder made from shade-grown tea leaves (Camellia sinensis), has captivated health-conscious AND the attention of health-conscious AND Gen-Z consumers around the world. Unlike steeped green tea,  matcha is full leaf in powdered form. It gives you elevated levels of caffeine, antioxidants (especially EGCG), and the calming amino acid L‑theanine.

In today’s world, matcha is everywhere. You’ll see it on café menus, skincare, across social media, and even as fun souvenirs. There is something deeper and more meaningful. Matcha has been part of Japanese tea culture for centuries. With its roots going back to Zen monks and traditional tea ceremonies. It wasn’t created to be trendy; it was created to be intentional.

The Japanese tea ceremony, also known as chanoyu, is a quiet, almost sacred ritual that emphasizes simplicity, respect, and mindfulness. Every movement is done with full presence. This ceremonial ritual is a practice in presence, an invitation to slow down and reconnect with yourself in a quiet, grounded moment. It also gives meaning to this trend. So, what else are the benefits to this ritualistic drink?

photo credit: The Whistling Kettle

1. A Powerful Antioxidant Boost

Matcha is rich in catechins like EGCG. These antioxidants help stabilize free radicals and support cellular health close to three times more than regular green tea (ocha).

2. Enhanced Focus & Calm

The combination of moderate caffeine and L‑theanine improves attention, memory, and reaction time while serving the drinker smooth, sustained energy without the typical caffeine crash.

3. Heart, Liver & Metabolism Benefits

Emerging studies state regular green tea (and likely matcha) brings about better heart health, liver protection, and improved fat metabolism (though more human research is needed for definitive claims.)

High‑grade matcha has a vivid emerald green color, smooth mouthfeel, and a rich umami/low bitterness. These qualities are markers of purity.

5. Mindfulness in it’s Preparation

Ritual preparation also encourages a mindful moment in daily life.

Why Premium Matcha Matters

• Source & freshness: Authentic matcha typically comes from Japan’s Uji, Shimane or Kagoshima prefectures, where soil, shade methods, and precise processing are heritage practices.

• Organic integrity: Organic certification ensures no synthetic agrochemicals, though it can sometimes mean a milder umami compared to conventional ceremonial matcha.

• Handling & packaging: Proper storage (cool, airtight, refrigerate if possible) preserves freshness and aroma—well‑managed vendors emphasize this practice.

5 High‑Quality Matcha Locations

Here are top places in KL to source premium matcha.
Including reliable organic ceremonial grades:

1. NISHI CHA Organic Matcha Café (KL)

Located in Kuala Lumpur, this brand sources 100% organic matcha directly from Japan, with JAS and other international certifications. They emphasize sustainable cultivation, zero pesticides, and strict quality from field to cup. Ideal for mindful drinkers looking for certified organic ceremonial matcha and café experiences.

2. MJU (Kagoshima‑sourced Organic Matcha)

Based in Malaysia, MJU imports JAS‑certified organic matcha from Kagoshima, Japan. They package with ziplock seals, test each crop for heavy metals via Eurofins, and ensure freshness for café or home brewing

3. Ukiyo Matcha (Malaysia)

This Malaysian retailer offers 100% Japanese matcha from Shimane, including top ceremonial grade. Their matcha is sourced and shipped directly from Japan—preserving freshness and umami depth.

4. Matchawalla (Malaysia)

Matchawalla sells ceremonial‑grade matcha with transparency: origin, milling, and quality control are highlighted. They discourage vendors without clear Japanese origin info, appealing to purists seeking authenticity.

5. Matcha.my – Genki & Misaki Organic Matcha

This Kuala Lumpur‑based online shop offers Genki Organic Ceremony Grade Matcha from Nishio and Misaki Organic Uji Matcha from Kyoto—both JAS organic certified and ideal for pure tea or lattes.

6. Softe – Menara Binjai, Kuala Lumpur

A refined minimalist café tucked into Menara Binjai near KLCC, Softe offers a clean, focused matcha experience using Isuzu and Aorashi matcha — both imported directly from Japan.

• Isuzu: Balanced, grassy, well-suited for daily lattes or iced matcha.

• Aorashi: Smoother, umami-forward, with a creamy texture and gentle finish.

Both are prepared with care using precise water temperatures and whisking techniques. Softe’s focus on high-quality ingredients and proper technique makes it a standout for matcha lovers in the city.
Location: Menara Binjai, KL
Try: Iced Mango Matcha at Softe

8. Chabashira Tea Roastery (Taman Paramount, PJ)

Ceremonial matcha from Kyoto, served with reverence and options for custom whisking levels.
Try: Kotobuki matcha or salmon ochazuke steeped in green tea broth.

9. Hvala (Plaza Arkadia, Desa ParkCity)

Singapore-imported café inspired by Japanese tea ceremonies.
Try: Matcha tiramisu, hojicha goma latte, or graded-intensity matcha gelato.

10. 108 Matcha Saro (The Exchange TRX, KL)

Back after a 2-year break, now at TRX with matcha from Uji.
Try: Matcha parfait soft serve, warabimochi, and matcha obanyaki with red bean.

11. BuTian Café (Taman Indrahana, KL)

Desserts made for the “not too sweet” crowd. Elegant, subtle matcha bakes.
Try: Triple Genmaicha Cake and the Matcha Yuzu Spritzer.

5. Ōno Specialty Coffee & Matcha (SS2, PJ)

Minimalist shop merging coffee and matcha with creative brilliance.
Try: When Two Worlds Collide – matcha cream over fizzy Ethiopian cold brew.

Choosing the Right Matcha: A Quick Guide

Apply these checks when selecting matcha:

Elvina C

Writer that loves martial arts, sports, food, travel, and all things creative.