04/13/2026
Is matcha worth the hype? 🍵
YES! I’ve always loved matcha for its roots in traditional Japanese tea ceremonies the intention, the ritual and the slowing down.
Matcha originated in China during the Song Dynasty (10th–13th century) as powdered tea and it was adopted into Japanese Zen tradition by monk Eisai in 1191, who brought seeds to Kyoto. It became a spiritual aid for meditation and later the centerpiece of the Japanese tea ceremony emphasizing tranquility.
Beyond it’s beautiful tradition, I love especially the steady energy, calm focus, blood sugar support, and mood boosting caffeine + L-theanine combo.
But with so many options out there and quality varying, how do you pick the best matcha for you?
1. Look at the ingredient list
• Should say: 100% matcha
• Nothing else: no sugar, no fillers
High-quality matcha is literally just ground tea leaves
2. Check the color
• Bright, vibrant green = higher quality
• Dull, yellow-green = lower quality / more bitter
That bright color comes from proper shading and higher amino acid content (aka more L-theanine = better mood + focus)
3. Pay attention to origin
• Best matcha typically comes from Japan (Uji, Nishio, Kagoshima)
• Single-origin is usually a good sign of quality
4. “Ceremonial grade” isn’t everything
• Not all ceremonial = high quality
• But most high quality = first harvest, well-sourced
5. Taste test = the real answer
The best matcha for you should taste:
• slightly sweet
• smooth
• a little umami (not harsh or super bitter)
If you want the most benefits, a few easy shifts:
• Choose higher quality matcha when you can (we have some great local options!)
• Keep it simple (water or a lower sugar milk)
• Add protein milk if you want a lower sugar protein boost
• Pay attention to how it actually makes you feel
For me, it’s not about being perfect, it’s about intention. Sometimes it’s a simple, traditional cup. Sometimes it’s my protein matcha. And sometimes it’s an intentional sweet treat!
Photos from my trip to Japan as a travel writer in 2014 where I first tell in love with matcha 🍵😍
