In search of the illusive coffee alternative in Oxford?

Oxford is packed with places to fuel the student need to be caffeinated twenty four seven; however, for those seeking an alternative there is more of a challenge to find that much needed energy boost. Matcha is an excellent alternative to traditional forms of caffeine, but can be hard to come by if you don’t know where to look. While some places are branching out, not every coffee shop serves matcha. While this is in no way a complete guide, it covers some of the main places in Oxford where you can buy matcha and my degree of recommendation.

What is matcha?

Matcha is a powdered form of high-grade green tea, which contains a kinder form of caffeine than coffee and a more concentrated amount than is typically present in green tea. It also contains antioxidants along with a variety of other benefits including liver and heart health and even aids weight loss. For me, the shift from coffee to matcha was a medical need, as some of the many side effects of a coffee habit were causing me challenges. The gentle caffeine hit from this alternative is far easier for my body to cope with and who knows, maybe the same will be true (or is already true) for you.

Pret

A staple of the student life (and city life in general) is the dreaded Pret subscription. Located on Cornmarket, both Pret and Veggie Pret will provide you with a rice coconut milk matcha that is typically well made and tastes good. This is a weaker drink than if you make it yourself, but despite the reputation of the establishment (my college daughter has been known to call it the McDonalds of the coffee world) it is a very good cup of matcha. No matter what city you are in, Pret can be relied up to present you with a matcha that is up to standard.

Leon

Across the road from Pret you will find a vanilla matcha, which can be a little sweet but is the largest anywhere in the city. This is the main draw of the Leon’s matcha – the size. This may seem like a minor detail; however, I have bought some matchas which have turned out to be barely more than a mouthful. If you are going to pay that much for a luxury drink, you like to know that you are getting your money’s worth! This matcha is once again quite weak and the syrup can be an acquired taste (if you are buying it iced, remember to stir it!), but it is a is a reliable source and in fact the company from whom I bought my first matcha.

Bird and Blend

If you are struggling with the flavour of matcha in its pure form, I recommend taking a trip to Bird and Blend on the high street. Here you will have the opportunity to try flavoured matcha, such as blueberry and caramel, which can help take the edge off the bitter taste of the green tea while still enabling you to make the better health choice. The staff at the shop are friendly and helpful, being full of suggestions for flavours to try. The drinks are a good size and stronger, better quality options than the two above. If you enjoy a particular blend they recommend, you can also pick up a tin to make your own.

The Organic Deli

Hidden away in the Friar’s Entry, is a sweet little café. Right next to The White Rabbit, this small establishment is often overlooked; however, next time you are in the area it is definitely worth a visit. Whether they have matcha in stock has been a little touch and go over the past few months, but typically they have it readily available to have with your meal (I wholeheartedly recommend their vegan breakfast!) If they do not have any matcha in stock, it may also be an opportunity to branch out and discover the delights of a turmeric latte!

Crosstown

Known for its donuts more than its drinks, Crosstown on Ship Street is also an excellent choice. Smooth matcha with a side of donut seems like the perfect way to start your morning, or a pick me up snack after a gruelling tutorial. The image above was taken at this establishment, which highlights their wonderful service. These matchas are similar to one that you would make at home – stronger than Pret or Leon and richer in natural flavour. Along with The Organic Deli, this is in my opinion the best place for a matcha in town.

Joe and the Juice

If your taste in matcha is well established and you find that the suggestions above are a little too weak for your liking, I suggest taking a trip to Westgate to try what Joe and the Juice has to offer. Personally, I am not a fan of their matcha and last time I bought one ended up binning it before having drunk even half. But, please don’t let my bad experience stop you! You may find that their matcha is more to your taste.

Matcha is typically more expensive than coffee and can feel like a lot to spend on something with a weaker caffeine hit. I am not saying that it is the cheap option, merely the more healthy. I began drinking matcha after my GP told me to cut out the caffeine and I have found that it still gives me the energy I need without the negative side effects that can be caused by even the best cappuccino. It is certainly not to everyone’s liking, but it is worth giving it a go if you are curious. If you find the over pricing of the take out version a little too steep, it is a simple task to learn how to prepare matcha and there are plenty of places where you can buy the powder. Perhaps this is the shift you need to start the new academic year with a fresh start, or perhaps you are already a matcha drinker and looking for places that serve the allusive drink, either way I hope that this has been a helpful insight into Oxford’s matcha scene.