Nairobi has always been a city that thrives on new trends, and in recent years, a green beverage has quietly made its mark across the café scene—Matcha.
Once a niche drink popular in Japan, matcha has now become a favourite of Nairobians, quickly gaining ground as a healthier, more sustainable alternative to the usual coffee or chai.
But what makes this powdered green tea so special? It’s not just about the flavuor; it’s about the experience—an experience that is becoming a lifestyle for more and more Nairobians seeking balance in their hectic daily routines.
A Healthier Choice for the Busy Nairobi Lifestyle
With Nairobi’s fast pace and high-stress work culture, it’s no surprise that more people are looking for ways to boost their energy and reduce stress. Enter matcha, a vibrant green powder made from finely ground green tea leaves, which is packed with antioxidants and offers a steady energy boost without the jitters that come with coffee.
“I started drinking matcha a few months ago, and I’ve never looked back,” says Jenna, a freelance graphic designer based in Nairobi. “It doesn’t give me the crash that coffee does. It’s more like a calm energy that helps me focus throughout the day.”
What sets matcha apart from regular green tea is the way it’s grown. Unlike traditional tea, which is grown in the sun, matcha is cultivated in the shade, allowing the leaves to retain a higher level of chlorophyll, the natural green pigment.
This process makes matcha a powerful antioxidant-rich superfood, with benefits that go beyond energy.
Rich in Antioxidants: The high level of antioxidants, particularly EGCG (epigallocatechin gallate), helps protect the body from free radicals, improve skin health, and boost metabolism.
Calm, Focused Energy: Matcha contains L-theanine, an amino acid that promotes relaxation and improves concentration without the overstimulation of caffeine.
Detoxifying: With its high chlorophyll content, matcha aids in detoxifying the body by helping to cleanse the liver and eliminate toxins.
Matcha as a Mindful Experience
Beyond its health benefits, matcha has become synonymous with a mindful way of living. As more Nairobians turn to wellness practices like yoga, meditation, and sustainable eating, matcha is the perfect fit for those seeking a balanced, calming energy to support their day.
For David, a yoga instructor who teaches at one of Nairobi’s most popular wellness studios, matcha has become part of his daily ritual. “I love that matcha doesn’t just fuel me, but it also helps me stay grounded. It’s a gentle energy that keeps me focused during my yoga classes and throughout the rest of the day.”
Many Nairobians are now incorporating matcha into their morning routines as a mindful start to their day. Whether it’s sipping on a matcha latte while reflecting on the day ahead or enjoying a matcha smoothie after a workout, it’s about taking the time to connect with the moment.
Not Everyone’s Cup of Tea
While matcha has gained a loyal following, it’s not for everyone. Some Nairobians have tried it and simply didn’t enjoy the taste. Its unique, slightly bitter flavor can be an acquired taste, which has led some to stick with more traditional drinks like coffee or chai.
“I tried matcha once and didn’t understand the hype,” says Tom, a self-proclaimed coffee enthusiast. “It was too earthy for my liking, and I couldn’t get over the aftertaste. I’ll stick with my cappuccino, thanks.”
It’s not uncommon for first-timers to feel a bit thrown off by the strong, grassy flavour of matcha. For some, the texture can also be a challenge, especially when compared to the smoother consistency of traditional lattes or teas. However, many have found that after giving it a few tries or mixing it with other flavours (like vanilla, honey, or oat milk), they’ve warmed up to the drink.
Matcha’s Growing Popularity in Nairobi’s Cafés
Despite the mixed reviews, Nairobi’s café scene has fully embraced the matcha movement. Several cafés across the city now offer a range of matcha drinks and treats, catering to both avid fans and curious newcomers.
If you’re looking to dive into the matcha experience, here are a few spots in Nairobi that are leading the charge:
Himiko Matcha Café (Lavington): Specializing in all things matcha, Himiko has become a go-to spot for matcha enthusiasts in Nairobi. Their matcha lattes and matcha cakes are a hit, and they offer a calm, inviting space to sit back and enjoy your green tea.
Sacred Mill (Various Locations): Sacred Mill’s blend of matcha and other plant-based ingredients makes it a great place for those who love fresh, healthy flavors. From matcha smoothies to matcha-infused granola bowls, Sacred Mill is creating a new wave of healthy breakfast and lunch options.
The Greenhouse Café (Karen): This cozy café serves up some of the best matcha lattes in the city, with a focus on organic and locally sourced ingredients. They even offer matcha ice cream for those looking for a sweet treat with their caffeine fix.
Artcaffe (Multiple Locations): A favorite of Nairobi’s café-goers, Artcaffe has jumped on the matcha bandwagon with a range of matcha-inspired dishes, from lattes to matcha croissants, perfect for a quick bite or a slow afternoon.
Bringing Matcha Home
It’s not just about cafés—matcha has quickly become a staple in many Nairobi homes as well. With local stores and online shops now stocking high-quality matcha powder, Nairobians are experimenting with recipes that go beyond the traditional latte.
From matcha pancakes to matcha energy balls, matcha can easily be incorporated into everyday meals, making it a versatile ingredient that’s as delicious as it is nutritious. Many have even started making their own matcha lattes at home, using non-dairy milks like almond or oat milk for a creamy, vegan-friendly alternative.
What began as a niche interest is now firmly rooted in Nairobi’s lifestyle scene. The green drink’s growing popularity is a reflection of the city’s increasing embrace of health, wellness, and mindful living. For many, matcha is more than just a drink—it’s a way to hit the reset button in a city that never seems to slow down.
Whether you’re a long-time fan or a newcomer, it’s clear that matcha is not just a passing trend. It’s a new way of looking at energy, health, and well-being—and in Nairobi, it’s here to stay.
