Introduction

Once reserved for traditional tea ceremonies in Japan, ceremonial grade matcha has become one of the most sought-after drinks in the wellness and café world. Known for its vibrant green color, calming energy, and bold earthy flavor, this powdered tea has made its way from temples in Kyoto to modern cafés across the globe.

At Taty’s Specialty Coffee & Tea, we proudly use ceremonial grade matcha in drinks that honor tradition while adding a creative twist. Whether you are new to matcha or a daily drinker, this guide will help you understand what makes ceremonial grade matcha so special and why it is becoming a must-have on menus in Orange County and beyond.

What is Ceremonial Grade Matcha

Ceremonial grade matcha is the highest quality of matcha green tea. It is made from the youngest leaves of the first harvest. These leaves are shade-grown for several weeks before being handpicked, steamed, dried, and stone-ground into a fine, bright green powder.

Key Characteristics of Ceremonial Grade Matcha:

• Vivid green color
• Smooth and slightly sweet flavor
• Minimal bitterness
• Ultra-fine texture
• Traditionally whisked with water only

Because of its delicate flavor and purity, ceremonial grade matcha is best enjoyed without added sugars or syrups. It is meant to be sipped slowly and appreciated fully.

A Short History of Matcha

Matcha has been part of Japanese tea culture for over 800 years. Originally brought to Japan by Zen Buddhist monks from China, matcha was used to help with meditation and mental clarity.

In Japan, it became a symbol of balance and mindfulness. Today, matcha is still used in traditional tea ceremonies, but its reach has expanded into cafés and households all over the world. From ceremonial bowls to matcha lattes, this super-tea has earned its place in everyday life.

Health Benefits of Ceremonial Grade Matcha

Ceremonial grade matcha is not just a trend. It offers real health benefits, especially when prepared simply with water or milk.

Here are a few of its most celebrated benefits:

• High in antioxidants including EGCG which supports immune health
• Contains L-theanine, an amino acid that promotes focus and calm
• Provides steady, long-lasting energy without caffeine crashes
• May help support metabolism and reduce inflammation

Unlike regular green tea, matcha is consumed as a powder. This means you are drinking the entire leaf, making it more concentrated and more nutritious.

How We Use Matcha at Taty’s Specialty Coffee & Tea

At Taty’s, our ceremonial grade matcha is sourced for color, taste, and quality. We serve it traditionally and creatively. Each drink is carefully prepared to highlight the smooth, rich flavor of the matcha.

Customer Favorites:

• Classic Matcha Latte – A smooth matcha blend served hot or iced with milk
• Strawberry Matcha Latte – Layered with house-made strawberry purée
• Banana Matcha Latte – Creamy and nutty with real banana and crunchy toffee
• Matcha Espresso Fusion – Bold matcha meets a shot of espresso for the best of both worlds

We also offer oat, almond, and other dairy-free alternatives for our matcha drinks.

Matcha vs Coffee

If you are deciding between a morning coffee or a matcha latte, here is a simple breakdown to help you choose.

Caffeine

• Matcha: Lower dose with long-lasting effect
• Coffee: Higher dose with a quicker spike

Energy Experience

• Matcha: Calm alertness due to L-theanine
• Coffee: Quick energy but sometimes jittery

Acidity

• Matcha: Low acidity and easier on the stomach
• Coffee: Often more acidic

Antioxidants

• Matcha: Exceptionally high
• Coffee: Moderate

Preparation

• Matcha: Whisked or blended
• Coffee: Brewed or poured

Where to Find Premium Matcha in Orange County

Looking for ceremonial matcha that tastes as good as it looks? Taty’s is your destination.

📍 Visit us in Westminster or Garden Grove to try one of our specialty matcha drinks
🛒 Or order online via Toast for fast, commission-free pickup

Whether you’re sipping it in our café or enjoying it on the go, we promise matcha made with care, integrity, and exceptional quality.

FAQs About Matcha

Is ceremonial matcha better than culinary matcha
Yes. Ceremonial grade is smoother, more vibrant in color, and meant to be enjoyed on its own. Culinary matcha is stronger and more bitter, which makes it better for baking or mixed recipes.

Does matcha have caffeine
Yes, but less than coffee. Matcha gives you steady energy without the crash thanks to L-theanine.

Is matcha healthy
Very. Matcha is loaded with antioxidants, supports focus, and offers more nutrients than brewed green tea.

Join the Matcha Movement at Taty’s

More than just a trendy drink, ceremonial matcha is about mindfulness, tradition, and enjoying something pure. At Taty’s Specialty Coffee & Tea, we bring you high-quality matcha in a setting that welcomes creativity and comfort.

Come try one of our matcha drinks today. Experience a new kind of energy. Taste the green that everyone is talking about.