Honolulu’s matcha scene is thriving, thanks to a wave of creative milk tea brands redefining how we sip this vibrant green tea. From floral twists to fruity fusions, here’s where to find the island’s most refreshing and Instagrammable matcha drinks—crafted by standout local brands.
1. Café Daisy
Downtown’s Café Daisy keeps it chic with floral-forward matcha creations. The lavender matcha with oat milk is a fan favorite for its light, springlike flavor, while their iced strawberry matcha provides a bright, fruity alternative that’s just as photogenic.
2. Cha to Gelato Zen
Kapahulu’s minimalist gem, Cha to Gelato Zen, delivers authentic matcha whisked to order. Their classic cup satisfies purists, while the strawberry matcha latte—crafted with homemade strawberry puree—balances earthy, creamy, and subtly sweet flavors.
3. Cooke Street Market
Signature alert! The strawberry matcha latte at Cooke Street Market in Kaka‘ako stands out with real fruit bits and Kyoto-imported matcha. Its perfect balance and generous size make it a go-to drink for matcha lovers across town.
4. The Curb Kaimukī
Matcha meets Southeast Asian flair at The Curb. Their pandan matcha latte offers a creamy, coconut-vanilla twist that adds a gentle sweetness to the grassy matcha base—perfect hot or iced.
5. Daily Whisk Matcha
Located in Kaimukī, Daily Whisk specializes in playful matcha combos like the Matcha Liliko‘i Soda. Fizzy, tart, and energizing, it’s a bubbly summer cooler that celebrates Hawaii’s tropical fruit heritage.
6. Junbi Waikīkī
For a bold fusion, Junbi’s Coffee Chaffe blends matcha with espresso, oat milk, and brown sugar syrup in a swirling, layered cup. This Royal Hawaiian Shopping Center favorite is both energizing and smooth—ideal for indecisive drinkers.
7. Matcha Café Maiko
The OG spot for matcha frappés, Matcha Café Maiko in Waikīkī is a weekend staple. Their icy green tea treats are refreshing and balanced, with just the right level of sweetness for locals and tourists alike.
8. Mele Mele Bakery
Tucked in Waialua, Mele Mele Bakery imports Uji matcha straight from Kyoto. While they offer rose and yuzu variations, their simple, earthy matcha latte speaks volumes with pure quality.
9. Pō‘ai by Pono Potions
Pō‘ai’s coconut-based Alohamora matches premium matcha with house-made coconut syrup and liliko‘i foam. It’s a tropical dream in a cup—ideal for coconut and matcha fans seeking something exotic yet comforting.
10. Sage Creamery
Not just for ice cream, Sage Creamery crafts dessert-worthy matcha drinks. Whether it’s the strawberry compote latte or pīkake-scented syrup version, these creamy, layered lattes are almost too pretty to drink—almost.
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