2 days ago
From 'slow matcha' to 'matcha bar': Finding the right matcha in the heart of Saigon
Chakura Matcha Bar – The essence of Japanese matcha
Tucked away in a quiet villa enclave in District 7, Chakura resembles a miniature Kyoto. The space resists noise, drawing guests into an atmosphere of stillness and appreciation. Though modest in size, its intimacy is part of its charm, encouraging visitors to leave the world outside and simply breathe.
A highlight here is the Maniac Matcha. True to its name, the matcha is intense, so vivid it stirs the senses. It caters to those who seek the purest expression of tea: undiluted, unsweetened, deeply green. For a gentler experience, genmaicha with its comforting notes of roasted rice offers a warm, familiar murmur. Atelier Matcha – The convergence of matcha essence
Atelier Matcha is the first outpost in Vietnam of Kyoto's renowned Yamamasa Koyamaen. Arriving at Atelier feels much like entering a contemporary tea salon in the heart of Ginza. Its interiors are bright and elegant, a space that is both refined and welcoming, inviting guests to pause and take their time.
See also: Tea: is it a science or an art?
Here, matcha is not merely served but celebrated. The tea is ceremonial-grade, sourced directly from Yamamasa Koyamaen, one of Japan's most esteemed producers. Each meticulously whisked cup tells a story through its fragrance and taste, accompanied by delicate wagashi sweets. Atelier's workshops offer a chance to slow down, to reconnect, and to find stillness in every breath of tea.
Above Matcha Tiramisu has a mild aftertaste and moderate bitterness, with matcha sauce that adds depth without being overpowering, just enough to elevate the light, smooth mascarpone cream with its subtle richness (photo: ateliermatchavn)
Above Matcha Coffee Jelly Shake brings an unexpected blend of bold espresso, silky vanilla ice cream, and delicately chewy coffee jelly. Together, they create a layered and indulgent flavour (photo: ateliermatchavn)
Umatcha Se – Unique green taste
Umatcha Se presents itself as a 'slow matcha' destination, inviting guests to take their time not just with tea, but with the full sensory experience. More than just a tea shop, Umatcha offers a curated matcha journey, including an 'omakase'-style tasting.
Here, each cup is whisked by hand with care and quiet precision. In this way, Umatcha reaffirms that the art of tea remains relevant, even amid the rush of city life. It is perhaps one of the rare places in Saigon that channels the Japanese spirit of matcha in a refined, modern way without veering into excessive formality. Take a seat at the bar, watch the tea maker immersed in their craft, and you may find a quiet stillness within yourself. Tea Space – Peaceful tea ceremony
If tea were to be seen as a medium for creativity, Tea Space would be its studio. Thoughtfully curated like an artistic workshop, this is where tea, milk, watercolour, and the artist's hand come together to compose vivid impressions.
The shop regularly hosts sessions on matcha drawing, latte art and other crafts, perfect for those who wish to sip while they create. What makes Tea Space distinctive is its openness: guests are encouraged to take part in shaping the beauty they enjoy. Not everyone comes seeking premium matcha, but many leave with something just as lasting: moments of calm and deeply personal memories.
Above If tea were to be seen as a medium for creativity, Tea Space would be its studio (photo: tea__space)
Above If one morning you find yourself longing for stillness, let matcha show you the way (photo: tea__space)
There is no shortage of matcha in Saigon, but the difference lies in how each destination tells its own tale. Some remain faithful to tradition, letting every sip echo the essence of old Japan. Others reinterpret the experience, blending contemporary flair with a dash of the unexpected. So, if one morning you find yourself longing for stillness for something green, something quietly moving: let matcha show you the way.
