Setsugekka East Village

NGL, they had me in the first half, the staff is sweet and the place is cute but when I tasted the matcha I could not believe it. I drink a ridiculous amount of matcha lattes and other matcha drinks, I make them myself daily, and Ive been to Japan and had them there many times, Ive been to uji and kyoto just for the matcha: this is the worst matcha latte Ive ever had. It tastes like water, and watching them make it, thats because it is all water. I cant taste a drop of matcha in this drink, just a bit of oat milk and water. Im actually baffled that I paid $20 for water. If you dont trust my opinion, my partner who also loves matcha lattes, has been to Japan multiple times and so on and so fourth agrees, and could not even finish their drink. I see many reviews saying that the matcha is rich and flavorful, maybe today was an off day, but I can assure you that it was the opposite of flavorful.
Apr 6th, 2024

Apr 6th, 2024

The matcha was rich and was subtly sweet. Its made right in front of you, tea ceremony style. It was enjoyable to watch since I have never seen matcha prepared like this before. However, I wished the employee spoke more about the process and the matcha. Service were kind of cold, not welcoming, and made the atmosphere uncomfortable. Not sure if I would come back. Note that this is a to go places with signs all over saying that. It is very small place with limited seating. Vegetarian options: All the matcha latte drinks are prepared with oat milk.
Mar 23rd, 2024

The matcha is of good quality, but the preparation of the matcha latte was not the best and was lumpy. For the price, I expected a perfect matcha.
Mar 19th, 2024

Definately get here ~1hour before closing due to the line/wait time. The place is very small but the service has a quick turn around. There were two baristas and one person taking the orders on line which made it a smooth transition for picking up our drinks/affogatos. First time visiting I ordered a hot matcha latte that comes with oat milk only. (My lactose intolerant body thanks you!) You have the option of choosing from 3 types of matcha. Starting off from of a grassy bitter note to a more velvety sweet flavor. There are 2 menus with given to you before ordering which made choosing what you want faster. The hot matcha latte was lovely. Definately very smooth and velvety but was not overly sweet which made you appreciate the matcha flavor. The oat milk was a nice touch for that milky aspect that didnt overshadow the matcha flavor. I would love to go back to try the affogato next time it looks delicious!!
Mar 18th, 2024