We first discovered Kyo Matcha, a small shop serving tea and desserts made of high-quality matcha, while reviewing the ramen restaurant next door. With its convenient location only a few steps away and complementary Asian style, we decided it was the perfect place for dessert. The focus on convenience continued when we stepped inside, with standing screens to order on and a quick service time. For a shop focusing on only one flavor, there was an astounding amount of variety on the menu, and we spent several minutes browsing through the options. After finally settling on a Matcha Brulee Cream Slush and a Strawberry Matcha Latte, we weren’t disappointed.
Matcha Brulee Cream Slush: 4/5 stars
I’ve always been a fan of matcha, so I was delighted to discover a store where that is the primary flavor. Seeking something lighter than a matcha latte, I settled on the brulee cream slush. The flavor was perfect—just the right level of strength where I could palpably taste the matcha in every sip without it being overpowering—and I found that the cream wasn’t too heavy, exactly as I had desired. My only issue was that the matcha faded near the end, leaving me with sips of flavorless slush. I recommend that those trying this blend stir it well to avoid this minor mistake and ensure the entire drink tastes as heavenly as the first sip.
Strawberry Matcha Latte: 4/5 stars
What instantly drew me into this drink was the vibrant colors that characterized this drink; ballet pink at the bottom fading into bright green suggested a drink that was both fruity and fun, and I was not disappointed. The matcha flavor came through strongly and did not mirror the watery or grass-like taste of other matcha sellers in the area. Beyond a strong matcha flavor, however, there was a faint hint of strawberry offset slightly by the milk required to create the drink. I would’ve appreciated slightly more strength in the strawberry flavoring, but when I did get a sip of strawberry mixed in with my matcha the result was a delicious combination of fruity, milky, and bitter flavors. I opted to get my drink with almond milk for allergy reasons, but the shop offers a variety of alternative milk for customers to choose from, as well as many add-ins such as boba or lychee jelly. On the whole, this drink was delicious and unique, and I will certainly return to satisfy my future matcha cravings.