Matcha fever has the nation gripped at the minute – it feels like half the country has turned its back on flat whites in favour of the popular green tea drink.
This pretty Japanese beverage might have been around for centuries, but it’s having a bit of a new moment here in Manchester and finding a whole new wave of fans.
With the global success of brands like Blank Street, you can barely walk down the street without passing someone sipping something green.
So we’ve decided to pull together 15 local spots in Manchester who are doing the very best matcha in town, from the very traditional to the very playful. Know of somewhere we’ve missed?
An honourable mention must of course go to Cha-Ology, a truly authentic Japanese tea house in Ancoats, where you can sit, shoes-off, on low cushions and learn all about the true art of matcha.
But we haven’t been able to properly include them in the list because they’re reservations-only and fully booked until summer. So, onwards!
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15 of the best matcha places in and around central Manchester
1. Ohayo Tea – Chinatown
Matcha bubble tea and soft serve at Ohayo Tea in Manchester (Credit: The Manc Group)
This adorable bubble tea cafe in Chinatown has a Shiba Inu dog as its mascot, and you’ll find his face carved into the walls, waffles in the shape of his head, and a giant dog statue bursting out of the wall.
Ohayo Tea serve a complex take on a matcha drink that plays into their bubble tea expertise – expect your matcha to come layered with tapioca pearls, cheese foam, pistachio foam, and plenty more options too.
These drinks come with instructions – tilt your branded cup (the Shiba is back) to at least 45 degrees to get every layer at once, or, if you insist, use a thick straw to mix it all together. You can also get matcha soft serve here with shards of honeycomb stuck to it. Delightful.
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2. Just Between Friends – Ancoats and Northern Quarter
Matcha drinks at Just Between Friends, Ancoats. (Credit: The Manc)
If you’re someone who actually likes their matcha to taste of matcha, rather than of all sorts of syrups and other add-ons, turn to one of the city’s best coffee shops.
At Just Between Friends – which has locations tucked into an old mill in Ancoats as well as right on Tib Street in the Northern Quarter – matcha is whisked properly with a traditional bamboo whisk, before being added to steamed or chilled milk.
The result is either a warm, smooth drink served in an earthenware cup or a refreshing iced matcha. You can wedge yourself into a window seat or even sit on the cobbled archway outside and imagine you’ve transported yourself to a Tokyo backstreet.
3. Matcha Kyoto – Lincoln Square
The Matcha Kyoto, ManchesterThe Matcha Kyoto, Manchester
This viral matcha spot went crazy in Manchester, with pop ups all over our city – and now they’ve opened the doors to their very own home.
Matcha Kyoto are bringing a little slice of Japan to Lincoln Square, with traditional Kyoto details and their famous matcha drinks topped with the satisfying cream swirls and even banana pudding.
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You can also pick up a range of sandwiches, and delicious baked treats like a Basque cheesecake.
4. Sipp – Chorlton
Sipp in ChorltonSipp in ChorltonSipp matcha in Ancoats. (Credit: The Manc Eats)
If you’re new to matcha or just know that you like yours with an extra little bit of sweetness and fun, you must get a sip of Sipp’s.
These guys have their own coffee shop in Chorlton, where they serve a whole list of ‘Matcha Cloud’ drinks.
Their best-seller is the raspberry and coconut, which tastes exactly like a lamington, or there are always specials cropping up (currently, it’s a mango and passionfruit). This is gateway matcha – and there’s absolutely nothing wrong with that.
5. Tsujiri – Chinatown
A selection of matcha items at Tsujuri in Manchester (Credit: The Manc)
Not satisfied with simply serving matcha you can drink, Tsujiri is a Japanese tea house using this powerful ingredient in cakes, ice creams, cheesecakes and more.
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Tsujiri was founded all the way back in 1860, before bringing the finest matcha lattes and infused desserts to British shores.
In Manchester, you’ll find them in the heart of Chinatown, tucked up an anonymous flight of stairs, where there are cabinets full of green sweet treats like a matcha basque cheesecake, matcha sundaes, and classic iced lattes.
They’re arguably the GOATs of the green scene.
6. Federal – Deansgate, NQ, Oxford Road, and Altrincham Market
Matcha at Federal in ManchesterViral canned matcha at Federal in Manchester
Next up, it might not be the first place that comes to mind when you think of matcha, but if you have yours early in the morning or consider it a staple of your early-mid afternoon, then we simply can’t overlook Federal.
The kings and queens of the Manc breakfast and brunch queue, these guys specialise in ‘Anzac’ scran and Antipodean-rooted beverages, but they’ve naturally hopped on the matcha bandwagon of late too.
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Not only can you get the stuff iced to take away in their branded transparent cans, but the ever lovely staff behind the counter are always sure to take their time with a hot one.
7. Vibean – Lincoln Square
Lucky number seven is the fantastic Viet cafe over on Brazennose St, just between Lincoln and Albert Square, who are quickly becoming one of the go-to spots for the good stuff.
With the upstairs decorated with various plushies sitting comfortably in the window, and the lines often filing out of the door, there’s definitely a buzz about this place at the moment.
To be honest, it’s become a bit of an obsession of ours, in itself, especially because of their genuinely addictive salted caramel matchas, which we’re wagering might just be the next big thing.
8. Bruncho – Deansgate
Eighth on our list of the best matcha spots in Manchester is the brilliant Bruncho, who have quickly made a name for itself as one of the go-to options most weekends here in the city centre, with people queuing regularly around the Deansgate brunch triangle.
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With a fantastic lineup of sweet and savoury treats to be enjoyed throughout the day, not to mention a lovely chilled out backroom that lots of people still don’t know about, but they also have a great hot matcha range, including ‘pure grade’, pistachio oat, ube, as well as plenty of other fruit and iced options.
It’s also an exciting time for the up-and-coming brand, too, as they’re set to open more locations here in the city centre and who knows where else in the future…
9. Cabana – Didsbury
Cabana in DidsburyCabana in Didsbury
Heading over to Didsbury Village now, and this little stall/hatch/hole in the wall/whatever you want to call it has become a cult favourite among nearby residents, and the matcha is a big part of that.
Run by an ex-Federal alumni, there’s something super fresh and colourful about this one; from head to toe, it’s all bright reds, yellows, and of course, greens.
Case in point: the lovely, lip-smacking açaí, that’ll make you feel like the healthiest person on earth, and it goes perfectly with an iced matcha that tastes way higher quality than you expect from most little grab-and-go gaffs like this.
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10. Biskits – Withington
Credit: The Manc
Continuing out of the city limits and towards the outskirts, we head over to Withington now and to the wonderful Biskits, which opened back in 2022 and has gone on to great things.
One of those great things is their matcha, especially because they do mix-and-match split cups of pretty much whatever you fancy. Yes, you can quite literally have an iced cinnamon matcha in one half and a simple glass of OJ in the other.
Plus, these ones come with an extra little biscuity snack stuck on top; what more could you ask for?
11. Nùr Cafe – Deansgate
As we enter the final third, we’re bringing a little bit of Arabian warmth into the mix with the stunning Nùr Cafe located at the bottom end of Deansgate, just before you get towards Blackfriars and towards Salford way – but you’d better stop and pop your head into this stylish little venue.
Finished in pristine whites, golds and creams (plus all the cream that goes into some of their decadent desserts and drinks), lots of people come here for the kunafa. However, it’s also one of the best places for matcha in Manchester.
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They have a whole extensive matcha section on their menu, including the likes of lychee and their popular ‘pink berry’ flavour, to guava and even coconut mixes, so do give it a go – and, once again, do also put it on the list if you’ve got a penchant for ‘pistach’.
Winging out back to Withy once again, not only does this gaff have a great name, but they’ve got great matcha game, too.
A staple of the surrounding community since 2023, serving proper good coffee in a place so chill, you feel right at home the moment you walk in, they’ve got great pastries, cookies and cakes, as well as toasties on locally sourced bread.
But even if you’re just in the mood for a hot or cold brew, you won’t go far wrong with their matcha.
As we hit the baker’s dozen mark, we’re throwing another known for more than just their matcha, but it’s well worth visiting for standalone items.
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Hikari Koffee is a speciality coffee shop-come-cafe that serves up Japanese-inspired baked goods, sandos, and they’re known for customer service that goes above and beyond.
With latte art that puts most coffee shops to shame, this is one spot you need to get on your radar.
Credit: The Manc
14. Tabitha’s Coffee – Deansgate
Tucked up on the Mews part of Deansgate, Tabitha’s has become a bit of a mini viral sensation in its own right already, but there’s even more than meets the eye.
Bring cool collabs and seasonal specials to their menu on a regular basis; they even do merch now, and they’ve just branched out with their first store over in Liverpool, too.
The matcha lattes are great, but we’re all about the iced cups when it comes to this place – and if you do happen to be peckish, we tell you how refreshing that chilli tuna crunch hits.
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15. Gulf – Deansgate
Last but not least, we’re going to finish with another taste of the Middle East and a place that has now got a second branch, serving everything from saffron-spiced matchas to brunch plates.
The newer Gulf site over in Deansgate now feels like the more food-focused of the two venues, but either/or are also a great place for a matcha – the question is whether you want it classic or rose-scented, sweetened with strawberry, blueberry, or coconut and mango.
All that being said, we still have a very soft spot for that tiny room in the back of Chapter One, and we always will…
Robinson’s Brewery among latest to join the crucial ‘VAT’s the Problem campaign’
Danny Jones
In case you missed the news, local Greater Manchester business Robinson’s Brewery are among several big names to join the growing ‘VAT’s the Problem’ hospitality campaign.
The Stockport beer makers are just one of the latest recognisable brands to rally behind the initiative set up by well-known British chef Tom Kerridge.
As well as appearing on the likes of Great British Menu, MasterChef, and Saturday Kitchen, the restaurateur also sadly had to close his Manc restaurant at the Stock Exchange Hotel back in 2022 amid the ever-lingering cost of living crisis, as well as rising energy bills and business rates.
Spearheading this mass petition since the start of June, Kerridge is now being backed up by the likes of Robinson’s and many more who believe the change could prove vital for countless operators within the industry to survive.
Sharing a lengthy statement in the caption of a post on their social media profile, ‘Robbie’s’ wrote: “Hospitality is one of the UK’s greatest success stories. It employs millions of people, gives young people their first jobs, creates lifelong careers, keeps high streets alive and brings communities together.
“But the sector is under enormous pressure. Rising energy costs. Food inflation. Huge employment costs. Unjust business rates. The highest tax burden in the UK economy. And on top of all of that – a 20% VAT rate that is among the highest in Europe.
“Countries including Spain, Italy, France, Ireland and Germany know how important hospitality is to society, and they know it pays too much tax. That’s why they already support hospitality with lower VAT rates. The UK deserves the same.”
Proposing – along with their fellow campaigners across the country – for the VAT to be cut in half, they believe that 10% would not only help keep struggling bars, restaurants and more alive, but help further invest in job creation, aid customers when it comes to overall costs, and therefore “strengthen high streets and local communities.”
It isn’t just a case of reducing obstacles for those working within the sector, but an effort to help bring prices down across the board across Great Britain. Those who passionately serve the population are falling short, while those who want to patronise their favourite places can’t make ends meet.
“Because when hospitality businesses close, communities lose far more than places to eat and drink; they lose connection, opportunity and local identity. Help us, help our industry.”
Besides soon-to-be Prime Minister and outgoing Mayor Andy Burnham having been vocal in championing the campaign, others getting behind the movement range from native names like the Third Floor Rising cafe in Afflecks to fellow famous chefs like Scotland’s Tom Kitchin.
Issuing a statement to The Manc, the brewery’s MD for their pubs, William Robinson, went on to add: William Robinson, Managing Director of Pubs, went on to say: “The compounding impact of taxes on pubs and hospitality is really beginning to bite the sector; the changes to National Insurance and National Minimum Wage increases affect hospitality businesses especially hard.
“To be able to invest in our teams and future growth, hospitality needs to be given the same support it receives in other European countries. This will also allow us to employ and invest in younger team members and through that help them to develop skills which they can use throughout their careers.”
You can support the VAT’s the Problem campaign by signing the petition right HERE.
A guide to an SK in the sunshine – 15 of the best beer gardens and bars with outdoor seating in Stockport
Lydia Mastrolonardo
Whether you’re a Stockport resident, local to spend some time back home, or even just want to escape the bustle of Manchester when the sun is shining, the town located just seven minutes away by train is perfect for a day out in the pubs – and it’s got some great beer gardens to boot.
So, if you’re hoping to soak up some rays with a pint but are new to the area, or you simply can’t keep up with all of those new spots popping up in the Underbank recently – look no further.
It doesn’t matter whether you’re after a simple boozer or one of those more stylish suburban bars that continue to pop up in the borough (it’s the ‘New Berlin’, we’ve heard), we’ve got you covered.
Here’s hoping the sun sticks around so we can try and test more sun traps for you; it’s very important and gruelling research, promise, but somebody’s got to do it!
The best beer gardens and top outdoor drinking spots in Stockport
1. The Good Rebel – Underbank
Since popping up in Little Underbank in 2019, The Good Rebel, just down on Mealhouse Brow, has become a solid option for some class beers in the warm weather.
With their courtyard tucked away at the side of the building (shhh), this one is easily missed if you’re not in the know, but lucky for you, we can’t gatekeep our favourites forever
Fear not: they also have plenty of parasols/umbrellas to hide from the sun if you burn easily.
— @thegoodrebelstockport (@thegoodrebelsk1) March 24, 2024
2. The Underbank – guess?…
This new beer hall and margarita bar is hard to miss, with the tables at the front of the building positioned in the prime spot at the end/start of Underbank, depending on who you ask, capturing all of the sunshine.
While they specialise in Margaritas, they have a wide selection of drinks including some classic beers, not to mention they serve slices of Gatto sourdough pizzaat £4 a slice, which is arguably some of the best pizza in Greater Manchester.
@the.manc Ran (and cooked) by the lovely Dan, @Gatto is all about proper fermentation and quality toppings, we’re talking vodka cream and sausage, crispy pepperoni, and a simple but stunning marg, finished with a fresh dusting of grade A parm. 🧀 If you’re into sourdough pizzas with a bit of personality, this one’s well worth checking out. 📍 27 Great Underbank, Stockport SK1 1LN #themanc#stockportpizza#stockportfoodie#wheretoeatinstockport#underbank♬ original sound – The Manc
3. The Runaway Brewery and Tap Room – Astley Street
This independent micro-brewery in the heart of Stockport prides itself on quality modern beer and local charm; plus, being only a few minutes away from the bus and train stations, it’s easily accessible from all over the region, so nobody has to miss out.
It is a fantastic indoor and outdoor space, with Honest Crust supplying some seriously good seasonal sourdough pizza – what’s not to like? We’ve been going here since way back when and we don’t intend on stopping any time soon.
4. The Angel Inn – Stockport Marketplace
This historic listed pub, one of Stockport’s oldest buildings built in the 16th century, has forever been a cornerstone of the community and continues to maintain this title among the locals.
Following its reopening in 2018, The Angel Inn has been restored as a modern town pub focused on cask beer, with a quaint little patio out back which often hosts live music and is very popular in summer.
With such a longstanding reputation as a top boozer and even a Grade II-listing now, you’d be crazy not to come and check it out for yourself.
Just a short walk away from Stockport’s Underbank, you can find this secret sun trap. Hidden away at the back of the pub is a stylish courtyard, perfect for summer.
The Red Bull also hosts monthly live music events of varying genres, darts, and if you’re feeling lucky, there’s a quiz every Wednesday from 7:30pm. Why not come on down early and soak up some rays in the courtyard for extra luck; after all, everyone feels more confident with a fresh tan.
Being so close to native ale experts Robinson’s Brewery, they’ve got a steady supply of local favourites coming regularly from nearby.
At the centre of Stockport’s ‘Old Town’ and Market district is Bakers Vaults – a great pub with plenty of character and a decent-sized outdoor seating area perfect for people watching, looking out onto the historic marketplace where there’s always plenty going on.
With an award-winning drinks range, including more Robbie’s brews, amazing food all day and live music in the evenings, this isn’t one to miss.
Not to mention there are plenty of other pubs and bars nearby, which makes for a class pub crawl.
Right next door, you can find the Produce Hall, with an unreal spot on Market Place to soak up the sun and some sensational food options to go with your drinks.
This building has always hosted a variety of stalls supplying delicious foods and drinks for the last 160+ years. Today is no different, with a whole host of different kitchens wrapping around the interior of the building, whether you want soul food, pizza or asian fried chicken – there’s something for everyone.
With so much to choose from, the real dilemma is picking what to eat with your pints; here’s just one suggestion for you:
Another one with a cracking history, this multi-award-winning, self-proclaimed ‘ale shrine’ simply has to make it onto your list for this summer.
The building itself has held importance since the early 19th century, and the pub continues to be a local favourite boasting live entertainment and a sought-after quiz, with many also commenting on its tasteful decor and delicious home-cooked meals. We can see why it’s so popular.
As one of CAMRA’s regularly listed pubs and having been awarded both regional and national pub of the year, serving some top-quality cask beers, it’s a no-brainer.
Only a stone’s throw from Stockport train and bus stations is the historic Magnet Freehouse – a family-run pub that boasts a selection of 14 continually changing ales from micro-breweries, as well as a permanent selection of quality beers and cider.
They also have locally sourced pork pies on offer, along with other classic pub snacks and stonebaked pizzas from their onsite pizzeria available from Thursday to Saturday.
Magnet Freehouse also boasts a fully equipped games room with a pool table, darts boards, jukebox, board games and colouring books for both adults and children, as well as an extensive beer garden and two terraces serving as perfect elevated sun traps in the summer.
A traditional pub with home-cooked food, a pool table and a large grassy beer garden to the rear that often hosts events in the summer. What more can you ask for?
Strawberry Gardens is known for its hearty Sunday lunch, entertainment and live sports, which all attract a range of ages from the local community.
We’re not going to argue whether it’s classed as ‘Offy’ or Little Moor these days; all we’ll say is that we’ve made plenty of good memories in here.
Another stylish Stockport pub with a fabulous beer garden, serving Manchester-made beers, cocktails and seasonal pub food, is located in Heaton Moor.
‘The Liz’ offers a blend of small plates and pub classics, including a raved-about Sunday roast with bottomless gravy and Yorkshire puddings.
They also have some fantastic deals such as: a free drink to be had when you buy a pie every Monday, or on Wednesday buy two large glasses of wine and get the rest of the bottle free.
The Puss in Boots is an unreal family-friendly spot for a carvery, with locally sourced and high-quality produce near Heavily and Great Moor, equipped with a magnificent selection of drinks and a beer garden fit for the summer weather.
They also have some exciting events, including live music on the last Saturday of each month and a free pub quiz every Thursday at 8pm.
Just imagine yourself sitting back and relaxing with one (or more – who’s counting?) of the five different spritzes on offer or a jug of Pimm’s in the sunshine, while the kids explore the play area attached to the beer garden. Need we say more?
From bull to big cat, another tastefully decorated Robinson’s pub waiting for you to try is The Red Lion in High Lane, just a short drive from Stockport town centre.
This pub is dog-friendly with a great outdoor seating area and only a short distance from Lyme Park, making it the perfect stop for a post-walk crisp pint this summer.
They also have a cracking menu with an amazing Sunday roast and wine deal, which seals the deal, putting it up there as one of our favourite pubs for a Sunday afternoon pub trip.
One of our all-time favourites is the Jolly Sailor, a short walk from Davenport train station, and right near Woodsmoor and Bramhall a bit further down the road.
The Jolly is especially popular with the locals due to its extensive drinks menu, live music and large beer garden to the rear, perfect for soaking up some sunshine by day and heaters for staying cosy during summer evenings.
While known for their carvery, they also have vegan, vegetarian and gluten-free/NGI menus, making the kind of traditional family-friendly pub accessible to all.
They’ve got a bit of everything. (Credit: Jolly Sailor via Facebook)
15. The Midway – Portwood
One of the most highly regarded pubs in Stockport, having won multiple awards including ‘Pub of the Year’ and ‘Stockport’s Best Sunday Lunch’, is The Midway with a fantastic beer garden.
The Midway isn’t that far from Vernon Park, Red Rock or The Plaza Theatre and cinema, making it the perfect place to factor in a lovely meal and some drinks before and/or after some entertainment or a stroll in some local greenery.
We hope reading this list got you as excited for summer as it did for us; the question is, did we miss anywhere that you consider among the best beer gardens in Stockport?
Let us know down in the comments.
Regardless, we’ve done the bulk of the hard work for you – now go forth, eat, drink, be merry and enjoy!
Daisy Jackson -
28th March 2025 
