Here's why Joburg girlies are obsessed with matcha
While some people think it tastes like grass, Johannesburg's obsession with matcha is not dying down anytime soon.
Matcha culture is taking over Johannesburg, and there is more to this green powder than meets the eye.
Despite its questionable taste, Joburg girlies swear by the drink, insisting it tastes as good as it looks.
Matcha's roots can be traced back to ancient China and Japan, but it is now popular in many parts of the world, including South Africa.
Just about every coffee shop has at least one matcha drink on its menu, and matcha cafes are popping up all over Johannesburg.
However, not everyone is a fan. Just like sushi, apparently, the more you have of it, the more you like it, and it looks good in pictures.
Here's why Joburg girlies are obsessed with matcha culture.
Wellness culture is taking over Joburg
Matcha culture is more than just a trend. It is part of a move towards cleaner and healthier lifestyles. Joburg's wellness scene is exploding, and it goes beyond regular trips to the gym and 10, 000 steps a day. People are paying attention to their sleeping patterns, watching their gut health, and focusing on their mental health.
Self-care is also being moved to the top of many people's to-do lists. Matcha fits perfectly with Joburg's clean-living efforts.
Best places to get matcha in Joburg: Papa Don't Preach
Slower living made easy
While Joburg's wellness culture is on the rise, not everyone can afford to spend hundreds or thousands of Rands on weekly pilates classes. Matcha is the doorway into Joburg's 'Slow Living Club'. It's affordable and easily available at many coffee shops. You feel part of the lifestyle without the hefty price tag.
Best places to get matcha in Joburg: here.
A break from coffee culture
Compared to the energy boost from coffee, matcha is associated with calmness, and according to Verywell Mind, it gives you "longer-lasting energy without the crash". While coffee is unlikely to lose popularity any time soon, many want to take a break from the mood swings and anxiety that come with a delicious 'Cup of Joe'.
Best places to get matcha in Joburg: Kōhī
Aesthetic social spaces
Coffee shops and matcha cafes are the new social spaces. Places like Platō Coffee are changing the game with clean, minimalist interior designs that are not only warm and inviting but are the perfect spots to take Instagram-worthy snaps. Clubs are out in 2026, and aesthetic spaces like modern coffee shops are the place to be.
Best places to get matcha in Joburg: Popo Tea House
@curious_kaylee1 Matcha in Johannesburg. Where is the best Matcha in Joburg?? 📍Popo Tea house - Rosebank Mall #macha #tiktoksouthafrica #cafe ♬ MMS - Asake & Wizkid
Social media influence
Matcha is TikTok and Instagram-famous and hard to ignore. The more you see it, the more you want to try it. It is only a matter of time before you order a matcha latte.
Best places to get matcha in Joburg: Matcha Stan
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