Best of 8 matcha in University City
Discover the delight of matcha in University City, a vibrant district in Philadelphia. Matcha, a finely ground powder of specially grown and processed green tea leaves, is gaining popularity for its unique flavor and health benefits. Many local cafes and tea shops in University City, such as Green Line Cafe, LULU CAFE, Starbucks, Kung Fu Tea, and Maison Sweet, offer an array of matcha-infused drinks and desserts. Discover the top 5 matcha spots in University City and indulge in this tasty trend.
1. Green Line Cafe
Indie vibe with local art and events, Caters to students

Green Line Cafe offers an exceptional matcha latte that is perfectly balanced with the right amount of sweetness. Individuals who enjoy matcha should try this drink, as it is one of the best in Philadelphia.
The matcha latte served at Green Line Cafe is highly recommended for matcha fans. Its balanced and delightful taste makes it a great choice for those looking for a delicious and authentic matcha experience.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
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2. Starbucks in University City
Provides a popular meeting spot for students and young professionals in the area

The matcha-based drinks at this location are a popular choice, particularly the matcha frappuccino. Its refreshing taste and perfect balance of matcha and sweetness make it a standout. On the other hand, the matcha latte is a frequent pick, but its quality can vary. At its best, the matcha latte is a delicious and satisfying drink, but there have been instances where it was overly sweet or not properly mixed.
In summary, both the matcha frappuccino and latte at this location are worth trying. The frappuccino consistently delivers a well-balanced and refreshing taste, while the latte can be a delightful choice when it's prepared well. However, there is some inconsistency in the latte's quality, with occasional issues of excessive sweetness or poor mixing.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Vegetarian Options
- Happy Hours
- Downtown Spots
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3. Boba King in University City
Popular boba tea spot with a wide range of flavors and toppings

Matcha powder is known for its bright green color and smooth, sweet taste. It is a type of green tea that has been consumed for centuries, and is particularly popular in Japan. Unlike other types of green tea, matcha is made from whole tea leaves that are ground into a fine powder. This means that when you drink matcha, you are consuming the entire leaf, which provides a more concentrated dose of nutrients and antioxidants.
Matcha is prized for its ability to provide a steady source of energy and mental clarity. It contains high levels of an amino acid called L-theanine, which has been shown to promote relaxation and reduce stress. At the same time, matcha contains a moderate amount of caffeine, which can help to improve focus and alertness. The combination of L-theanine and caffeine in matcha creates a state of calm alertness, making it an ideal drink for those looking to boost their productivity and focus without the jittery side effects of coffee.
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4. LULU CAFE
Supporting local artists with a community art space

Lulu Cafe offers delicious matcha drinks, including the matcha bubble tea and matcha latte. The matcha bubble tea is particularly enjoyable, with a robust matcha flavor and chewy boba. For those looking for a different option, the matcha latte with oat milk is highly recommended.
Overall, the matcha drinks at Lulu Cafe are a standout. The strong matcha flavor is a highlight, whether you prefer it in a latte or bubble tea form. If you're a fan of matcha, Lulu Cafe is definitely worth a visit. The oat milk option in the latte adds a creamy and delicious twist, enhancing the flavor of the matcha.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Mid-Range
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5. Kung Fu Tea
Popular bubble tea chain with a focus on quality and innovation

Kung Fu Tea is a establishment that offers a variety of drinks, with a popular choice being their matcha milk tea. The matcha milk tea received positive feedback, as the matcha flavor was reported to be robust and genuine. Another matcha option on the menu is the matcha red bean slush, which is said to be a favorite among students.
In summary, Kung Fu Tea is a drink vendor with a selection of beverages, including a range of matcha choices. The matcha milk tea stood out for its distinct and authentic matcha taste. Additionally, the matcha red bean slush is a highly-regarded choice, especially among the student population.
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6. Top Hat Coffee Lounge
Indie vibe with local art displays and live music

The matcha latte offered at this establishment is a must-try for anyone who enjoys this popular drink. Its earthy flavor is well-balanced and not overly sweet, making it a delightful choice for matcha lovers.
This matcha latte is an absolute treat, with a perfect balance of sweetness and the distinctive taste of matcha. Whether you're a dedicated fan of this antioxidant-rich drink or simply looking to try something new, this matcha latte is sure to satisfy.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Vegan Options
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Hidden Gems
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7. Tea-Do
Specialized tea shop with unique flavors and welcoming ambiance

Kokuto, a type of brown sugar, was used to create a unique and delightful matcha latte. The combination of ingredients resulted in a distinctive and satisfying flavor that was appreciated by those who tried it. The establishment where this drink was served was also noteworthy, as it provided a great atmosphere for patrons to relax and enjoy their delicious tea.
Matcha tea, when served over ice, can be a refreshing and enjoyable beverage. The establishment where this matcha tea on ice was served was a wonderful place for people to gather and savor the tasty drink. Whether looking for a place to catch up with friends or simply seeking a peaceful retreat, this establishment was an ideal spot to enjoy a delicious cup of matcha tea on ice.
TOPICS
- Celebrations
- Fusion Cuisine
- Gluten-Free
8. Gong cha-University City
Uses high-quality tea leaves and fresh ingredients

The matcha milk tea offered at this establishment is exceptional due to its balanced and mildly sweet flavor. It is quickly becoming a preferred choice for many, including myself. In addition, I had the opportunity to try the matcha bubble tea, which was equally delightful. The robust matcha flavor combined with the ideal texture of the boba created a satisfying tea experience.
Both the matcha milk tea and the matcha bubble tea served at this location stand out for their well-balanced and flavorful profiles. The former provides a delightful, mildly sweet taste, while the latter boasts a rich matcha flavor and perfectly prepared boba. Whether you prefer your tea with or without bubbles, this establishment's matcha offerings are sure to impress.
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