Pasadena's Best Matcha [Updated 2025]

As I dove into the vibrant world of matcha in Pasadena, I couldn’t help but be swept away by the rich flavors and unique blends each spot had to offer. I’ve sipped my way through 12 top locations, each with its own personality and flair, and let me tell you, my taste buds have been on quite the adventure!

With years of experience in uncovering the city’s best-kept secrets, I’ve developed a discerning palate that knows what to look for in a perfect cup of matcha. Whether you’re a matcha aficionado or just curious about the hype, get ready to discover your new favorite spot to indulge in this vibrant green delight!

Urth Caffe Pasadena

Highlights
Beautiful outdoor seating
Huge portion sizes
Nice vibe and ambiance
Fast and friendly service
Delicious food options

Urth Caffe Pasadena is not just a feast for your taste buds, but a delightful escape for your senses! When you walk in, the atmospheric charm captures you instantly. The beautiful outdoor seating creates a captivating vibe, perfect for those sunny California days. But let's get to the main attraction: their matcha!

I ordered the matcha latte, and let me tell you, it was a perfect balance of smoothness and depth. The rich, green tea flavor was just right—not too earthy, which often puts some people off. To add to the experience, the huge portion sizes left me blissfully satisfied without feeling overwhelmed by sweetness.

What truly makes this place stand out, aside from the fantastic matcha, is the fast and friendly service. The staff was incredibly welcoming, making my visit feel special. To complement my drink, I couldn't resist trying one of their delicious food options, which perfectly paired with the matcha.

In a nutshell, if you find yourself wandering around Pasadena, Urth Caffe is a must-visit for matcha lovers. With great ambiance and excellent offerings, you’ll be walking away with more than just a caffeine fix!

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Criterion coffee

Highlights
Cute seating areas
Delicious pastries available
Comfortable, chill ambience
Considerate and nice servers
Reasonably priced coffee

At Criterion Coffee, the moment you step inside, you're greeted by a vibe that's both charming and inviting. The cute seating areas beckoned me to settle in, allowing the bustling world outside to fade away. As I sipped their matcha, I was taken aback by the exceptional quality; it was smooth and velvety, with just the right amount of sweetness to make it irresistibly satisfying.

Pairing it with one of their delicious pastries added an extra layer of delight to my experience. I opted for a matcha croissant, perfectly flaky and well-matched to my drink. The comfortable, chill ambience of the café made it easy to stay a little longer than planned—I could really envision making this my new go-to spot for a relaxing afternoon.

Beyond the matcha and pastries, the staff at Criterion are genuinely considerate and nice. They seem to thrive on creating a welcoming atmosphere, which is refreshing in the busy bustle of Pasadena. Oh, and did I mention the reasonably priced coffee? It’s just another cherry on top of a delightful experience! All in all, Criterion has certainly earned a spot in my heart—and on my list of the best matcha in Pasadena!

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mandarin coffee stand

Highlights
Exceptional Vienna coffee
Cozy and intimate atmosphere
Inspired by Chinese heritage
Delicious pastries available
Quick moving lines

Review of Mandarin Coffee Stand

Nestled snugly in Pasadena, Mandarin Coffee Stand is a delightful haven for matcha aficionados like myself. The moment I stepped in, I was greeted by a cozy and intimate atmosphere that feels almost like visiting a friend's kitchen. The decor, subtly inspired by Chinese heritage, effortlessly adds a unique twist to the experience.

Now let's talk about the star of the show: their matcha latte. It's a beautiful blend of rich, earthy matcha expertly mixed to just the right consistency. Each sip is a delightful dance of flavors, with a perfect balance of bitterness and sweetness, making it an invigorating start to my day. What truly stood out was how quick the lines moved, allowing me to grab my matcha fix without any fuss—ideal for the busy Pasadena lifestyle!

Alongside the drinks, I couldn’t resist trying some delicious pastries that added a lovely complement to my matcha. If you’re on the hunt for the best matcha in town, make sure to stop by Mandarin Coffee Stand—it’s a charming experience that’ll leave you coming back for more!

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Highlight Coffee - Pasadena

Highlights
Fresh matcha from Jeju island
Hand-picked chocolate selection
Unique espresso tonic flavors
Attention to detail
Good bean selection

Highlight Coffee - Pasadena was a delightful discovery on my quest for the best matcha in the city! As I stepped inside, I was greeted by a charming ambiance that instantly puts you in a relaxed state of mind. The matcha selection here is simply stellar, featuring fresh matcha sourced from Jeju Island that’s vibrant and lusciously green. I could taste the care and quality in every sip!

Pairing my matcha with their hand-picked chocolate selection was an adventure, as the rich flavors perfectly complemented the earthiness of the matcha. It felt like a matcha lover's dream come true! Moreover, I appreciated their attention to detail in preparation; the baristas showcased a meticulous approach that elevated the overall drinking experience.

Though my primary focus was the matcha, I couldn't help but be intrigued by their unique espresso tonic flavors. Highlight Coffee certainly knows how to blend creativity with tradition, making each visit an opportunity to explore.

In a city rich with coffee culture, Highlight Coffee - Pasadena stands out as a destination for matcha enthusiasts. If you’re hunting for an exceptional matcha experience, this charming spot is definitely worth your time!

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Jameson Brown Coffee Roasters

Highlights
Spacious, brewery-like decor
Friendly and efficient service
Unique specialty coffee options
Refreshing Orange Blossom Latte
Charming atmosphere with twinkly lights

Nestled in the heart of Pasadena, Jameson Brown Coffee Roasters offers a delightful respite that transcends your typical coffee shop experience. Upon entering, I was immediately struck by the spacious, brewery-like decor adorned with charming twinkly lights that create an inviting ambiance.

Now, let’s get to the good stuff: the matcha! Often overshadowed by specialty coffees here, their matcha was surprisingly refreshing, with a well-balanced flavor that danced elegantly across my palate. The barista, radiating a charming smile, described it as a harmonious blend, and I couldn’t agree more.

But don’t overlook their other specialty offerings – the Orange Blossom Latte stole the show, providing a tantalizing twist that complements their traditional fare. It was a treat to see such creativity and thought put into each pairing.

While sipping my matcha, I appreciated the friendly and efficient service, which enhanced the entire experience. Each visit feels like a warm hug, surrounded by fellow matcha aficionados. All in all, Jameson Brown Coffee Roasters stands out as a hidden gem for matcha lovers in Pasadena, combining a playful atmosphere with exceptional quality that keeps you coming back for more.

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Lost Parrot Cafe

Highlights
Fun, natural lighting
Nice coffee selections
Spacious but noisy
Average prices
Good spot to hang out

Upon stepping into Lost Parrot Cafe, I was immediately captivated by the playful ambiance. The fun, natural lighting casts a warm glow over the space, making it an inviting destination for both matcha lovers and those seeking a cozy spot to relax. With an extensive menu boasting various coffee selections, there’s something for everyone.

Now, let's talk about their matcha! This delightful concoction is vibrant and artfully prepared, showcasing a balance of earthiness and sweetness that makes it simply delightful. Trust me, the baristas here know how to elevate this traditional drink into a delightful experience.

Despite the slight noise level, which can be a bit distracting during peak hours, the spacious seating allows for plenty of room to unwind or catch up with friends. Prices are fairly average, making this an accessible treat for matcha enthusiasts without breaking the bank.

In a sea of tea shops, Lost Parrot Cafe stands out for its vibrant atmosphere and delicious matcha creations. Whether you're seeking a quiet moment or a buzzing place to mingle, this cafe hits the sweet spot! Enjoy your adventure in Pasadena’s matcha scene—it’s one worth savoring!

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Fika Fika Coffee

At Fika Fika Coffee, I was greeted by an inviting atmosphere and a vibrant crowd, perfect for savoring their matcha latte. The flavor was a delightful mix of creamy milk and earthy matcha, blended to perfection, showcasing quality that truly stands out. The baristas were friendly and knowledgeable, eager to share the origin of their matcha and the meticulous preparation process. I enjoyed my cup while soaking in the cozy vibes, making it a great spot for both relaxation and productivity. If you're searching for your next matcha obsession, look no further than Fika Fika—it’s a taste of heaven!

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Republik Coffee Pasadena

At Republik Coffee Pasadena, the matcha experience is nothing short of delightful! The vibrant green hue and frothy texture immediately caught my eye. Sipped slowly, each cup reveals a delicate balance of earthy richness and subtle sweetness that dances on the palate. The baristas are not only skilled but also radiate a contagious passion for their craft, making each visit feel like a personal treat. I also appreciated their suggestion to try it iced—an invigorating twist on a classic! If you're looking for a cozy spot to indulge in expertly crafted matcha, be sure to drop by this charming café.

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Ideology Coffee

Tucked away in Pasadena, Ideology Coffee is a delightful haven for matcha lovers. As I took my first sip, the vibrant green hue caught my eye, immediately promising a fresh experience. The matcha latte was creamy and well-balanced, with just the right amount of sweetness that made it feel indulgent yet healthy. Each sip danced on my palate, revealing rich umami notes that lingered long after. The cozy ambiance, paired with their knowledgeable staff, made my visit all the more enjoyable. If you're in the area, don't miss out on this gem—it’s a matcha must-try!

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DASH COFFEE BAR

Nestled in the heart of Pasadena, DASH COFFEE BAR offers a matcha experience that’s as vibrant as its decor. Upon sipping their signature matcha latte, I was greeted with a smooth, creamy texture that danced delightfully on my palate. The earthy undertones of the matcha were perfectly balanced with just the right amount of sweetness, making each sip a joyous treat. Additionally, the baristas were both knowledgeable and enthusiastic, eager to share their matcha crafting secrets. If you're in search of a delightful matcha escapade, look no further; DASH is a definite must-try!

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Old Town Caffe

Stepping into Old Town Caffe was like discovering a hidden gem in the heart of Pasadena! Their matcha latte is a delightful blend of rich, earthy flavors and just the right amount of sweetness. The vibrant green hue promises quality, and it doesn't disappoint. Topped with a delicate layer of froth, each sip transports you to matcha heaven. The ambiance is cozy, perfect for a relaxing afternoon or a productive work session. Bonus points for their friendly baristas who are genuinely passionate about their craft. If you're on the hunt for exceptional matcha, this spot should be on your radar!

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Majano's Coffee, LLC.

Upon stepping into Majano's Coffee, LLC., I was welcomed by a cozy atmosphere that felt instantly inviting. Their matcha, a vibrant shade of green, was prepared with an artistry that made my taste buds dance. The smoothness was remarkable, delivering a perfect harmony of earthy notes and subtle sweetness that left me wanting more. The barista's passion for quality was evident in every sip! Whether you're a matcha aficionado or a curious newbie, this gem in Pasadena is a must-visit for your next matcha fix. Don't miss out on this delightful experience—your taste buds will thank you!

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