If you’ve ever wondered why Nana’s Green Tea Cafe attracts such devoted fans, the secret lies in how deeply they respect tea-making tradition while modernizing it for café culture. Every element—from how the leaves are grown to how each drink is whisked—plays a part in delivering that distinct umami depth and creamy finish. For more details about the brand, menu, and background, visit our in-depth guide on Nana’s Green Tea.

Uji, Kyoto: Japan’s Matcha Capital

The soul of Nana’s matcha begins in Uji, Kyoto, often called Japan’s birthplace of premium green tea. The area’s mineral-rich soil, misty climate, and shaded cultivation methods help produce leaves that are intensely green and full of amino acids. These natural conditions give Uji matcha its signature umami and mellow sweetness. By sourcing directly from Uji, Nana’s ensures that every drink carries this terroir-driven flavor—a hallmark of authenticity.

Generations of Expertise with Yamamasa Koyamaen

Nana’s Green Tea collaborates with Yamamasa Koyamaen, one of Uji’s most respected tea houses, with over 400 years of tea production experience. This partnership means that the brand’s matcha isn’t just trendy café fare—it’s grounded in centuries of craftsmanship. Koyamaen’s careful control over shading duration, steaming, and aging ensures consistency in flavor, aroma, and smoothness. This expertise sets Nana’s apart from cafés that rely on mass-produced or culinary-grade matcha powders.

The Importance of Stone Milling

A defining step in Nana’s production process is stone milling. While faster metal grinders can generate heat that dulls flavor and color, traditional granite mills grind leaves slowly and evenly. The resulting powder has a velvet-smooth texture and vibrant jade hue. When whisked, it dissolves effortlessly, creating a silky foam and a balanced, lingering sweetness on the palate.

The “Matcha Espresso” Bar Technique

What makes the in-store experience special is the “matcha espresso” method used by baristas. Rather than pre-mixing powders or relying on syrups, Nana’s whiskers prepare a concentrated shot of matcha—similar to how espresso is made for coffee. This base can then be adjusted for drinks like Matcha Americano, Matcha Latte, or even Matcha Soda. This system keeps the flavor pure and customizable while maintaining the integrity of the leaf.

A Flavor Profile That Stands Out

The first thing you notice about a well-prepared Nana’s matcha is its deep emerald color and layered taste. It opens with grassy freshness, followed by nutty richness and a slightly sweet, creamy aftertaste. The balance of umami and sweetness comes from meticulous shading and slow grinding, which raise amino acid levels and reduce bitterness. Each sip feels luxurious yet refreshing—proof that matcha can be both soothing and energizing.

Menu Highlights Worth Trying

Nana’s menu showcases how versatile matcha can be:

• Classic Hot Matcha – For purists who want to experience the full flavor of Uji leaves.

• Matcha Latte – A perfect balance of creaminess and depth, enhanced by milk’s natural sweetness.

• Matcha Americano – A lighter, water-based version that highlights matcha’s fragrance.

• Matcha Soda – An inventive sparkling drink that merges sweetness, fizz, and tea aroma.

• Matcha Soft Serve – Silky ice cream infused with concentrated matcha, creating a smooth, bittersweet finish.

Each beverage allows the matcha’s character to shine through, proving that good tea doesn’t need excessive sugar or additives.

Brewing Tips for Home Matcha Lovers

If you want to recreate Nana’s-style matcha at home, use 175°F (80°C) water—hot enough to extract flavor but cool enough to avoid bitterness. Sift the powder first to eliminate clumps, then whisk briskly in an M or W motion until a fine foam forms. Use about 2 grams of matcha with 60 ml of water for a concentrated base. Add water or milk to taste. Remember: the secret lies in gentle handling and patience—just as Nana’s baristas do behind the counter.

Tradition Meets Modern Hospitality

Founded in Tokyo in 2001, Nana’s Green Tea reimagines Japanese tea culture for today’s café scene. Each store blends minimal, serene design with efficient service, inviting newcomers to explore authentic matcha in a welcoming space. Whether you’re a long-time tea drinker or just beginning, Nana’s bridges the gap between heritage and modern lifestyle without losing authenticity.

The Verdict

Nana’s Green Tea’s matcha stands out because it unites elite Uji sourcing, centuries-old craftsmanship, and precise modern preparation. The result is a drink that’s not only visually striking but also layered, aromatic, and deeply satisfying. From the first sip to the last, you taste the harmony between nature, tradition, and innovation.

If you’re exploring high-quality matcha or planning your next café visit, check out our detailed guide on Nana’s Green Tea for more insights into their drinks, history, and brewing philosophy.