The peak of the New York matcha craze, 12Matcha is special for a reason.

Craftsmanship Passed Down for Five Generations, Focusing on the Essence of Tea

The uniqueness of 12Matcha begins with its roots. The Hotta family, who has been cultivating tea in Uji, Kyoto for five generations, collaborates with Japan’s top tea taster, Haruhide Morita, to guarantee the highest quality. They adhere to traditional methods, hand-picking only the first harvest of young tea leaves and delicately roasting them, focusing on preserving the original flavor and aroma of the tea. The meticulous management of water taste through a customized purification system using activated carbon reveals the commitment of a ‘true’ matcha specialty shop.

The Aesthetics of Space Crafted by Paris Design Studio ‘Ciguë’

The space, renovated from a 19th-century cast-iron building, was designed by the Paris design studio Ciguë. They personally visited Uji, Japan, to experience tea fields and tea ceremony culture, incorporating that experience into the spatial design. The deep green lava stone bar counter and neatly arranged tea tools transform the process of serving tea into a ritual, while the minimalist space, devoid of unnecessary decorations, allows for a complete focus on the taste and aroma of the tea. The underground area features seating filled with wooden furniture and a softly lit tasting room, providing a moment of tranquil meditation amidst the bustling city.

How to Enjoy 12Matcha?

• Signature Menu: You must try the carefully brewed ‘Matcha Latte’ and ‘Matcha Americano,’ as well as the rich-flavored ‘Matcha Basque Cheesecake’ and ‘Matcha Ice Cream.’
• Space Experience: Watching the process of tea being served at the first-floor bar is a great pleasure. The underground tasting room offers an even deeper tasting experience.
• Waiting Tips: As one of the hottest spots in New York, long waits are a must. It’s best to visit during relatively quiet weekday mornings or prepare yourself for the wait.

12Matcha reminds us of the value of ‘essence’ that can easily be forgotten in the fast-paced trends. This place is not just selling trendy drinks; it is a cultural space that conveys the value of craftsmanship that has been slowly and steadily maintained. If you’re curious about the true taste of matcha, seek the answer at New York’s 12Matcha.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q. What does the name ’12Matcha’ mean?

A. The number ’12’ is inspired by spiritual symbols like constellations and the 12Hz brainwave frequency that calms the mind. This symbolizes the meditative experience that matcha provides.

Q. What is the location and operating hours?

A. It is located at 54 Bond Street in the NoHo area of Manhattan, New York. Operating hours may vary by day, so it’s best to check the official channels before visiting.

Q. What are the menu items and price range?

A. The signature Matcha Latte is around $7, and the Matcha Americano is about $6. You can also enjoy dessert items like Matcha Ice Cream ($5) and Matcha Basque Cheesecake ($8).