TNE’s Matcha Tour of Leeds
- Rosie
- Mar 12
- 3 min read
Those that know me know that one of my first articles had to be about matcha. Over the last few years, matcha has gone from being a rogue drink I would either make at home without really knowing what I was doing, or hunting down in bigger cities. Now, to my great joy, Leeds is buzzing with great matcha and a new spot to try nearly every month.
I’ve pretty much tried all the matcha that Leeds has to offer so thought I’d roundup my 5 favourite finds that blend top notch ceremonial grade matcha with a chic setting to spend your afternoon.
Tsujiri
If you’re serious about matcha, Tsujiri is your place. In my opinion, Tsujiri is the absolute GOAT, with authentic matcha sourced from Uji in Japan and an unreal range of drinks and matcha flavoured desserts too.
The matcha flavour is deep, smooth and slightly umami, without the overly sweet taste you sometimes get in café versions.
It's located near Kirkgate market and Victoria Gate and there’s seating inside.
heytea
heytea is a really fun spot to try matchas with a twist. As a hardcore matcha lover, I went for the triple supreme matcha latte which truly gave me the caffeine hit I needed. There’s so much more to try from cloud matcha to matcha bubble tea with brown sugar bobo in.
It’s usually super busy in there so more of a grab and go spot but makes the perfect afternoon sip to wander around the shops with.
The Savvy Baker
Leeds’ favourite independent brownie baker has officially opened in the city centre and she doesn’t just bring sweet treats, but she’s launched with a mega matcha menu. In true Savvy Baker style, they’re basically desserts in a cup with flavours that change with the season. I recently tried the salted vanilla matcha with cold foam and the brand new cereal milk matcha which was something special.
What I love about this spot also is that they offer two different types of matcha, a ceremonial blend for those who are more accustomed to the taste and a sweeter, lighter alternative for those trying matcha for the first time or still getting into it. What’s better is that you can throw in a brownie too and treat yourself to a solo date of dreams.
SIPS
Of course I had the visit Leeds' tiniest matcha shop, SIPS in Hyde Park. Literally poking out of their back garden, a brother and sister duo have launched a matcha pit stop with tasty drinks and a range of matcha flavoured sweet treats. I get the signature brown sugar iced matcha which has a nice strong matcha flavour with a touch of sweetness.
Definitely a good one for on the go and a nice spot to visit in the summer for a grab n go matcha and nice walk.
Blank Street
Apologies in advance for being a basic b*tch but Blank Street is bagging the final spot. There’s no denying that the whole experience is truly top notch.
A cool girl setting where you can waste away hours (especially in the upstairs cafe) with incredible flavoured matcha.
I always go for the extra shot of matcha to offset the sweet flavours and I recently tried the earl grey one which was 100% my favourite Blank Street flavour yet.
Other matcha spots worth trying
Leeds’ matcha scene continues to grow, and a few other spots are also worth adding to your list:
Hidden inside Flannels, Hii Grind might just be the most stylish place in Leeds to grab a matcha. The new spring specials with cold foam are on my list to try!
Great place to work with a great matcha to accompany. Love their seasonal flavours!
Perfect for when you fancy an indulgent matcha, the white chocolate matcha latte is chefs kiss.
If you’re looking for an aesthetic afternoon, this is your spot. With a dreamy honeycomb matcha to go with it.
