There are two types of people in the world: those that like tea, and those that prefer coffee. I have to say that although coffee is the only thing that keeps my eyes open after a late night, tea will always be my first love. One type of tea holds a special place in my heart: green tea. In memory of weekends and having enough sleep, here are five go-to places to indulge your green tea craving.
1. Peet’s Coffee & Tea
While some people might argue that Starbucks is better than Peet’s Coffee, I beg to differ. Their Matcha Javiva is richer in the green tea department and has a perfect blend of cream and tea. It’s the perfect pick-me-up when you’re feeling restless after a long day of classes.
#SpoonTip: Ask for a shot of peppermint in your drink for an extra kick.
2. Beard Papa’s
I’ve been craving these since I left home (Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia) for college, and it was a while before I could get myself a Green Tea Ice Cream Puff and Matcha Cream Puffs. They aren’t as conveniently located around my campus, but it was completely worth the wait. I would recommend calling ahead to make sure Bard Papa’s has their matcha treats in stock. I recommend the Matcha Mochi and the Green Tea Latte.
#SpoonTip: If you plan on sharing the latte, let them know and they’ll split it for you.
3. PoppaBox
With the Boba craze that has taken the nation by storm the past few years, I couldn’t resist adding a matcha boba stop for all you boba lovers. This boba is the real tea deal with a creamy, almost vanilla-like hint that comes along with the green tea. I’m personally not a big fan of Boba, so I got it without and I still love it.
#SpoonTip: This one’s for GW students—use your GWorld here.
4. Kaz Sushi Bistro
I couldn’t imagine a better way to end a perfectly authentic fusion cuisine than this Green Tea Tiramisu. It was so perfectly fluffy and light that I could eat it forever. The small pineapple cubes and blueberries did more than decorate, as they added a little zest to the dessert.
#SpoonTip: You can use your GWorld here, too.
5. Sakuramen
If food presentation was a factor, Sakuramen would take the lead. These mochi balls had a soft and moist skin, and a good amount of ice cream inside of them. Combined with the wafer and the strawberries, it helped to rid off the spiciness that came with the Spicy Miso Ramen I had prior.
#SpoonTip: I would recommend allocating as least 1.5 hours for a trip here because there’s usually a long wait for a table.