The opinions expressed in this article are the author’s own and do not reflect the views of Spoon University.
In a world full of coffee drinkers, matcha lovers often get overlooked. But don’t worry, my fellow Gainesville matcha drinkers, I’ve got you. Not all matcha are created equal, and I’m here to tell you which places are worth a visit when you’re craving your next matcha fix.
Whether you’re a fan of its earthy and slightly sweet flavor or its vibrant color (the perfect accessory to any outfit in my opinion!), a good matcha is worth seeking out.
In this roundup, I’ll take you on a tour through Gainesville’s matcha spots, giving you the inside scoop on what’s worth sipping and where you might want to skip. From cozy cafes to minimalist coffee bars, here’s everything you need to know about the matcha scene in Gainesville.
Curia on the Drag
Curia on the Drag is as aesthetic as it gets in Gainesville with its artsy and colorful vibe. If you’re looking for a cute spot to take some photos or catch up with friends, Curia checks all the boxes. The Auk Market, a mixed-vendor marketplace full of unique finds, and the adjoining food truck with a tempting food menu make it easy to spend an afternoon here.
But when it comes to matcha, Curia falls a bit short in my opinion. I ordered a matcha latte with oat milk hoping for a creamy, balanced drink; however, that was not the case. The oat milk overpowered the matcha. The subtle, earthy notes of the matcha were hard to detect, making it taste more like a slightly green oat milk latte than the matcha experience I was really looking for.
So while Curia is worth a visit, if you’re planning to explore the whole space, it’s probably not your go-to if you’re purely after a great matcha.
Karma Cream
If you’re serious about your matcha, Karma Cream is hands-down the best spot in Gainesville. Their matcha latte is a perfect balance of bold, high-quality matcha flavor that’s smooth but not too intense. It’s exactly what you’d want from a ceremonial-grade blend. Just look at the color yourself, the vibrant green color alone is a dead giveaway of the quality.
Each sip hits the perfect balance. The matcha itself is rich, with no bitterness. The addition of oat milk and a touch of vanilla syrup complements rather than overshadows the tea.
Karma Cream’s classic coffee shop vibe only adds to the experience. It’s the kind of place you can go to, whether you’re studying, meeting up with friends, or just unwinding with a great cup of matcha.
Wyatts Coffee
Wyatt’s may not have the strongest matcha itself, but it’s a fun spot if you’re in the mood to try seasonal matcha flavors with a twist. Their matcha offerings lean toward the sweet side, making it a good stop if you’re craving a treat more than a purist’s cup of matcha. When I visited, I tried the Berry Crumble matcha, a fall-inspired drink that perfectly captured cozy, autumn vibes. With a triple berry blend, brown sugar, and maple syrup, it was like sipping on dessert being both comforting and sweet, though admittedly overpowering the matcha itself.
Wyatt’s is located in the heart of downtown Gainesville, which makes it easy to grab a drink and go for a walk while exploring the area. The shop itself is small, so it’s not the ideal spot for studying or a long hangout, but it’s perfect for a quick grab-and-go. If you’re up for a seasonal twist on your matcha or just your average matcha latte, Wyatt’s is worth a visit.
Pascals Coffeehouse
As probably one of the most popular and well-known coffee shops in Gainesville I was excited to stop by Pascal’s Coffeehouse and see how their matcha stood against the rest.
Pascal’s rivals even Karma Cream in terms of quality. The matcha is fresh, with a bold and smooth taste that isn’t overshadowed by any added ingredients. The color once again a vibrant green, hints at its great quality. Each sip is well-balanced, with just the right amount of creaminess to complement the matcha’s earthy notes.
Located conveniently close to campus, Pascal’s Coffeehouse is a top choice for matcha lovers who need a solid study spot. With its cozy cabin vibes, warm lighting, and comfortable seating, Pascal’s has a welcoming atmosphere that makes it easy to settle in for a productive session. However, be prepared to compete for a table, as it’s a popular spot that fills up quickly.
While it may not quite top Karma Cream, Pascal’s matcha latte comes close, making it a great option for those on campus who want both a quality drink and a study-friendly setting.
You’re Now a Gainesville Matcha Guru
Whether you’re a matcha purist or love trying creative twists, Gainesville has something for every green tea lover. From the cozy vibes at Pascal’s to the indulgent seasonal creations at Wyatt’s, there’s no shortage of options to satisfy your cravings. So grab a friend, pick a spot, and sip your way through the city’s matcha scene.