With matcha prices rising due to the global matcha shortage recently, as reported by The Straits Times, hunting for a good quality matcha drink without breaking the bank can seem like a challenge – especially for students.
Fret not! These five matcha spots in Singapore offer not just high-quality matcha but also budget-friendly options for students. Whether you’re looking for a quick grab to satisfy your matcha cravings or a chill spot to mingle with your friends, these places are worth trying. From a classic matcha latte to unique flavours, these drinks are guaranteed to satisfy your cravings.
DID YOU KNOW?
To spot a good-quality matcha drink, check the colour! It should have a bright green tone. That’s how you know it’s a good matcha.
KYO KOHEE
Located near the Central Business District, Kyo Kohee started as a small cafe offering a grab-and-go service takeaway concept. Since then, it has expanded and relocated to a larger space, where customers can now savour their matcha drinks and enjoy Japanese lunch sets in a more spacious setting.
The cafe offers three distinct varieties of ceremonial grade matcha – asahi, tenmyo, and okumidori.
Among them, their signature Matcha Latte, Okumidori, $7.90, is a favourite among customers. Upon the first sip, you’ll be welcomed with a strong matcha taste that has a creamy and smooth texture. It’s worth noting that their matcha drinks tend to lean towards the sweeter side.
Address: 112 Robinson Rd, #01-01, Singapore 068902
Nearest MRT: Telok Ayer
Opening hours: Mon-Fri: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Website: https://www.kyokohee.com/
Instagram: @kyokohee.sg
Price range: $4 – $11 (Drinks) | $22 – $28 (Food)
HVALA SINGAPORE
One of the must-visit places for matcha enthusiasts is Hvala! Inspired by their love for Japanese tea and arts, Hvala has several outlets including locations in North Bridge Road, Somerset, and Takashimaya. For a cosy, Instagrammable spot, try visiting the Somerset outlet! The space has a touch of Japanese zen-like vibes making it the perfect place for after-school hangouts.
A favourite among customers is the Matcha Hojicha Latte Iced, $7.90, which has a slightly burnt, bitter taste derived from roasted leaves. For an elevated fix, try switching to oat milk – it adds a delightful kick and a touch of nuttiness!
Address: 111 Somerset Rd, #01-10, Singapore 238164 (Four other outlets near Takashimaya, Raffles Specialist Centre, etc)
Nearest MRT: Somerset
Opening hours: Mon-Sun: 12 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.
Website: https://www.hvala.com.sg/pages/about
Instagram: @hvala_sg
Price range: $5 – $15
HELLU COFFEE
Hellu Coffee, located near Amoy Street, is a popular and quaint cafe known for its matcha drinks. The interior is designed with wooden furniture and glass tables setting a cosy vibe for customers. While the price is on the higher side, the drinks make up for it! Highly recommend trying their signature Matcha Creamu, $8.90, which is inspired by the Viennese Einspanner drink – a hot espresso topped with whipped cream.
For first-time visitors, it is recommended to enjoy the sweet cream on its own and not stir it. It’s also worth noting that the matcha flavour here is more subtle compared to other cafes. For larger groups visiting this cafe, it’s best to arrive early as the cafe is relatively small.
Address: 137 Amoy St, #01-05 Far East Square, Singapore 049965
Nearest MRT: Telok Ayer
Opening hours:
Mon-Thurs: 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Fri: 8 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Sat: 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Instagram: @hellu_coffee
Price range: $4 – $10
HEY SLOW JOE
If you’re in search of a laid-back, quiet cafe, Hey Slow Joe is the place for you! Located near Farrer Park, this is ideal for solo dates where you just want to enjoy a cup of matcha. Speaking to HungryGoWhere, Shannon, the co-founder and owner, shared that she wants her customers to slowly savour and enjoy the moments without rushing.
Their menu offers options like the Matcha Latte, $8.50, and Dirty Matcha Latte, $9.50, available for you to choose from. For those who prefer their matcha to have a thicker consistency and less sweet, this would appeal to your taste buds. If you’re looking for a matcha with an extra kick, try their dirty matcha latte which has a blend of espresso and matcha.
Address: 1 Tessensohn Rd, #01-10, Singapore 217701
Nearest MRT: Farrer Park
Opening hours:
Mon-Fri: 7:30 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Sat- Sun: 7:30 a.m. – 6 p.m.
Instagram: @heyslowjoe
Price range: $4 – $20
WOOLY’S BAGELS
If you’re looking for a unique twist when it comes to matcha drinks, Wooly’s Bagels located near Arab Street would be a good choice to consider. Best known for its stuffed bagels, this Muslim-owned cafe has a hidden gem – Strawberry Matcha Foam ($7.50).
With a blend of strawberry milk and fresh fruit chunks at the bottom and a foamy texture from the matcha, it has the perfect balance of flavours. The drink is not overbearingly sweet and has a thicker consistency.
Address: 89 Rangoon Rd, #01-03, Singapore 218375
Nearest MRT: Farrer Park
Opening hours: Mon-Sun: 10:30 a.m. – 8:30 p.m.
Website: https://woolysbagel.oddle.me/en_SG/
Instagram: @woolysbagels
Price range: $5 – $20
