It's never too late to share your love for matcha, whether you're a long-time matcha enthusiast or you're just beginning to explore its earthy, umami flavor. And if you're planning to host friends or family for a creamy bowl of matcha green tea, this blog is just the thing. We've curated a collection of our favorite matcha bowls and accessories, along with a few simple ideas to help you create a matcha setup that feels welcoming and personal. Let's begin!
Everything You Need for a Beautiful Pause
Hosting takes care and thought. It's more than setting the table; it's about expressing your personal style, making guests feel truly at home, and creating a space that feels calm, welcoming, and unrushed. This collection is carefully curated to help you transform a simple gathering into a special tea party filled with lasting moments.
Start Strong, Start With Good Matcha
When the entire gathering revolves around matcha, the matcha powder you choose matters; it's the first step, the beginning of everything that follows. For moments rooted in tradition, such as tea ceremonies, ceremonial grade matcha is the ideal choice. It's made from the youngest, most tender leaves of shade-grown tea plants, stone-ground into an incredibly fine powder. The result is a bright green tea with a smooth texture, featuring a natural sweetness and umami-rich flavor that doesn't require any additional ingredients.
Ceremonial matcha is best enjoyed in the traditional preparation of matcha, such as usucha (thin tea) or koicha (thick tea), where the purity of the matcha can truly shine through. When choosing your powder, look for USDA and JAS certifications; these marks signal that the quality matcha comes from Japan's top 1% of tea fields, where growing practices and quality are held to the highest standards. Later in this blog, we'll share simple recipes for both usucha and koicha to help you get started.
Matcha Chawan That Brings It All Together
When hosting, every detail helps shape the atmosphere, and the presentation makes a strong impression. A well-chosen matcha bowl does more than hold tea; it adds elegance and supports how the matcha tea is prepared and served. It's important to pick a tea bowl that's wide and open enough to give the whisk plenty of space so that you can create a smooth layer of froth with ease.
There's no single right style; matcha bowls come in a wide range of shapes, finishes, and colors to suit different tastes. Some have an earthy, textured look, while others feel more minimal. Ceramic bowls are often used in traditional tea ceremonies because they retain heat well and offer a comfortable weight in the hands. Choosing a handmade Japanese bowl adds a layer of thought, bringing in a piece that reflects both tradition and personal style. It's a small choice that helps bring the whole matcha experience together.
Matcha Starts With the Whisk
The right matcha tools make all the difference when preparing a tea that feels delicious, especially during a matcha-centered gathering. One of the most essential tools on your tea table is the bamboo whisk. This is the tool that gives matcha its smooth, creamy texture and helps create that light layer of froth that makes a bowl of matcha feel complete.
When choosing a bamboo matcha whisk, look for ones made from golden bamboo. These are known for their quality and durability; they're odor-free, flexible, and won't interfere with the delicate taste of the tea. A good matcha whisk should have between 100 to 120 tines. This tine count gives you the control and surface area you need to blend the powder thoroughly, break up clumps with ease, and whisk in enough air to get that fine, clump-free froth. It's a simple tool, but it shapes everything about the matcha you serve.
Essentials for Smooth Matcha Preparation
There are several other tools that play an important role in preparing a smooth, balanced cup of matcha. A sifter helps break up matcha clumps in the powder before whisking, making it easier to achieve a silky, even consistency in the final tea. A bamboo scoop, or chashaku, allows you to measure out matcha with accuracy, helping you adjust the strength to your taste preferences while keeping the preparation consistent. Then there's the whisk holder, designed to keep the bamboo tea whisk upright as it dries. This helps maintain its shape and extends its lifespan while also keeping your setup tidy between uses. Each of these tools supports the matcha-making process and brings a sense of order to the preparation.
Matcha Bowls With Spouts: Simple and Smart
You can always use a beautiful matcha bowl with a spout when hosting your loved ones for matcha; it's a practical addition that makes preparing tea for a group much easier. Instead of whisking individual servings, you can make a larger batch in one go and pour it neatly into cups without losing the froth or making a mess. The spout helps with smooth, controlled pouring, especially when serving multiple guests at once. A glass matcha bowl set with a spout is a great option, too; its neutral look blends in with any theme or tea table setup, whether you're going for something traditional, modern, or minimal. It lets the vibrant green of the matcha pop and pairs well with just about any tray, cloth, or setting.
Décor That Supports the Gathering
Decorations for a matcha tea gathering work best when they feel thoughtful but not overly styled. A small arrangement of seasonal flowers, like branches with fresh leaves or simple blooms, can bring color to the table. Avoid anything too large or elaborate; the goal is to add something fresh that doesn't distract from the delicious matcha. Trays are helpful both for serving and for keeping the matcha ritual organized; wood or ceramic work well, depending on the look you're going for. They also make it easier to carry items and create small stations for whisking, pouring, or serving sweets. Cloth napkins in natural fabrics like linen or cotton add texture and can be folded neatly beside each setting or placed under bowls for an added layer. Neutral colors like beige, soft greens, muted blues, or light grey keep the table calm and cohesive without feeling too matched. These simple details can make the space feel welcoming and warm without requiring too much time or effort.
Snacks That Bring Out the Best in Matcha
Snacks are an important part of any tea gathering, and when matcha is the focus, it's worth choosing ones that complement its unique character. Matcha has a deep, slightly grassy flavor with a hint of natural sweetness and umami, so it pairs best with snacks that are not overly rich or sugary. Below are a few snack ideas we think work especially well alongside matcha, whether you're serving thin tea (usucha) or thick tea (koicha).
Japanese-Inspired Classics
- Wagashi (traditional Japanese sweets) – Especially nerikiri, daifuku, or mochi, often filled with red bean paste. Their subtle sweetness pairs beautifully with the flavor notes of matcha.
- Dorayaki – Small pancake-like sandwiches with a light, chewy texture, and sweet red bean filling.
- Matcha Warabi Mochi – Soft, jelly-like mochi dusted with kinako (roasted soybean flour) or matcha powder.
Light & Sweet Bakes
- Matcha Shortbread or Cookies – Not too sweet, with a delicate crumble that lets the tea shine.
- Mini Castella Cakes – Soft, sponge-like cakes with a honey note; easy to slice and serve.
Other Additions
- Seasonal Fruit – Strawberries, yuzu slices, or fresh pear, served simply or skewered for easy sharing.
- Senbei (Rice Crackers) – Choose lightly salted or glazed varieties for a satisfying contrast.
- Cucumber and Cream Cheese Sandwiches – Soft bread with fresh cucumber and smooth cream cheese offers a cool, mild flavor that pairs well with matcha.
Preparing Matcha the Traditional Way
The way matcha is prepared in Japanese tea ceremonies is simple but deeply rooted in tradition. For an experience that stays true to those origins, ceremonial-grade matcha is recommended. This is the highest quality matcha, made from the first harvest of young, tender green tea leaves. There are two main styles of preparation: Usucha (thin tea) and Koicha (thick tea). Usucha is lighter and more delicate in flavor, typically whisked into a frothy consistency. Koicha, on the other hand, uses more matcha and less water, resulting in a thicker, smoother tea with a bold, concentrated taste.
Making Usucha (Thin Tea)
Ingredients:
- 1-1.5 tsp high-quality matcha
- 2-3 oz (60-90 ml) hot water (175°F / 80°C)
Equipment:
- Matcha bowl
- Bamboo Matcha whisk (Chasen)
- Fine mesh sifter
Instructions:
- Preheat your matcha bowl: Pour hot water into the bowl, swirl it around to warm the sides, then discard the water.
- Sift the matcha powder: Place 1-1.5 teaspoons of matcha green tea powder into a fine mesh sifter over the warmed bowl. Gently tap or push the powder through the sifter to break up clumps.
- Carefully pour 2-3 ounces of warm water (175°F or 80°C) over the sifted matcha powder.
- Using your bamboo whisk, whisk the matcha and water together in a zig-zag motion until a frothy layer forms on the surface.
Tip: The key to a perfect Usucha is in the whisking! Whisk briskly and continuously until you achieve a smooth, frothy consistency with minimal lumps.
Remember: Making usucha is an art that takes practice. Adjust your matcha powder and water quantities to find your perfect balance and preferred taste. Enjoy your cup of matcha by taking small sips!
Making Koicha (Thick Tea)
Ingredients:
- 2-4 tsp high-quality ceremonial-grade matcha
- 1-2 oz (30-60 ml) hot water (175°F / 80°C)
Equipment:
- Matcha bowl
- Bamboo Matcha whisk (Chasen)
- Fine mesh sifter
Instructions:
- Preheat your matcha bowl: Pour hot water into the bowl, swirl it around to warm the sides, then discard the water.
- Sift the matcha powder: Place 2-4 teaspoons of matcha powder into a fine mesh sifter over the warmed bowl. Gently sift to remove any clumps and ensure a smooth texture.
- Slowly pour 1-2 ounces of warm water (175°F or 80°C) over the sifted matcha powder.
- Mix the matcha and water slowly in a gentle, circular motion using the bamboo tea whisk. Unlike Usucha, Koicha does not require vigorous whisking. The goal is to create a thick, smooth, and glossy consistency without froth.
Once fully blended, your Koicha is ready to enjoy. Drink it slowly to appreciate its rich, concentrated flavor.
Note: Koicha matcha tea has a bold, velvety texture and a more intense umami flavor than Usucha. It's traditionally used in Japanese tea ceremonies and pairs beautifully with traditional Japanese sweets.
For a More Contemporary Matcha Table
If you're planning on a more contemporary matcha gathering, you can always explore our recipe section for some of our favorite matcha creations. A classic contemporary take on matcha is a creamy, umami-rich matcha latte. It's smooth, satisfying, and works well for casual get-togethers. Below is a recipe for a simple matcha latte that's quick to prepare and always a hit.
Matcha Latte
Ingredients:
- 1 teaspoon Matcha Green Tea Powder
- ¼ cup hot water (160–180°F)
- ¼ cup warmed choice of milk (soy, cashew, coconut, or any milk of choice)
- Optional: sweetener of your choice (to taste)
- Optional: vanilla bean or cinnamon (for added flavor)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Matcha
- Sift the matcha powder into a large mug or ceramic matcha bowl to remove any lumps.
- Add hot water to the matcha. Using a matcha whisk (or a small kitchen whisk), whisk briskly in an up-and-down motion for about 30 seconds until the mixture becomes frothy.
2. Add Milk
- Pour warm milk over the frothed matcha tea. Taste and adjust flavors by adding vanilla, cinnamon, sweetener, or additional water or milk as desired.
3. Blender Method (Alternative)
- If you don't have a whisk, combine milk, matcha powder, sweetener (e.g., honey or agave nectar), and vanilla in a blender. Cover and blend on high until the mixture is creamy and frothy.
Cold Latte Option
Add the ingredients and a handful of ice to a jar for an iced matcha latte. Cover and shake vigorously until well combined.
Tip for the Perfect Latte
Water Temperature: Keep the water between 160–180°F to avoid a bitter, burnt taste. A good tip is to let your kettle boil and cool for a few minutes before adding it to the matcha powder.
Enjoy your creamy, flavorful Matcha Latte!
Making Matcha Moments With Friends
It's always a good idea to have loved ones over for a cup of matcha, whether it's something simple and spontaneous or a gathering you've taken time to plan. We hope this guide helped make things feel a bit more approachable, from choosing the matcha and tools to setting up a space that feels welcoming. There's no one way to do it, and the smallest details can end up making the moment feel special. In the end, it's about taking time, sharing something you enjoy, and creating space for connection.
