Japanese

Alfred’s Café Matcha Reimagines Coffee Culture in LA

Alfred’s Café Matcha Reimagines Coffee Culture in LA

The verdict is in: Los Angeles is getting a caffeine fix with a twist. Alfred, the city’s beloved coffee chain, has unveiled Café Matcha, its first espresso-free concept in Studio City. This isn’t just another café—it’s a bold redefinition of what a neighborhood drink spot can be. With its vintage diner aesthetic and matcha-centric menu, the new flagship is both a throwback and a forward-thinking experiment. Alfred founder Josh Zad describes Café Matcha as a “reimagined neighborhood hangout,” blending the familiarity of a classic coffee shop with a modern matcha focus. The design leans into retro diner vibes—think Formica tables,…
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Two Hidden Coffee Gems That Define L.A.’s Cool Scene

Two Hidden Coffee Gems That Define L.A.’s Cool Scene

L.A.’s coffee scene isn’t just about the usual suspects. Beyond the chain cafes and trendy spots, two under-the-radar destinations are redefining what coffee can be—and where it can be found. These aren’t just places to grab a cup; they’re immersive experiences that blend culture, creativity, and a dash of rebellion. Kissaten Corazon, tucked into a warehouse just outside the Arts District, feels like a time capsule. The space is a love letter to both Japanese coffee traditions and L.A.’s underground vibe. Imagine velvet curtains, a piano, and dim lighting—plus a menu that pairs matcha with cantaloupe and wine from a…
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The Manual Roaster That’s Worth the Hassle

The Manual Roaster That’s Worth the Hassle

There’s a quiet revolution happening in the world of coffee roasting. While electric machines promise precision and ease, a tiny, handcrafted roaster from Japan is quietly stealing hearts—and coffee beans—among enthusiasts. It’s not about speed or convenience; it’s about the ritual, the craft, and the way a manual roaster forces you to slow down. For me, it’s the one I reach for despite its quirks, even if it means sacrificing a few beans to the chaos of chaff and labor. The manual roaster is a paradox: it’s both a labor of love and a test of patience. Unlike its electric…
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The Best Coffee in the Bay Area: A Curated Guide to the Region’s Most Dynamic Brews

The Best Coffee in the Bay Area: A Curated Guide to the Region’s Most Dynamic Brews

Here’s what you need to know: The Bay Area’s coffee scene is a kaleidoscope of innovation, from Korean-inspired roasters to Japanese avant-garde cafes. This year’s standout shops are less about trends and more about redefining what coffee can be—think co-fermented brews, experimental roasting, and hyper-local sourcing. Whether you’re chasing the boldness of a matcha-laced latte or the subtlety of a single-origin pour over, the region’s cafes are pushing boundaries with every sip. At Olivia Coffee and Flower in Oakland, the focus is on beans roasted in Korea, with a standout example being a fruit-forward blend that tastes like a pina…
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Unraveling the Rich Umami Profile of Chinese Matcha: A Deep Dive into Wushiling (Isuzu) Pro Matcha

Unraveling the Rich Umami Profile of Chinese Matcha: A Deep Dive into Wushiling (Isuzu) Pro Matcha

You've probably heard that Japanese matcha takes center stage in the world of green tea, but have you ever given Chinese matcha a try? In this review, we delve into an intriguing find - Wushiling (Isuzu) Pro Matcha, a promising Chinese brand that offers a unique green tea experience. While on a recent trip to China, I stumbled upon this 50g tin of matcha on Taobao. With limited reliable recommendations for Chinese matcha, I was drawn to its packaging - a small quantity, pricier than usual, and presented in a traditional tin. The brand name, 五十铃 (Wushiling), translates to Isuzu,…
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