Nana’s Green Tea, Japan’s renowned café brand, has opened its doors in Hong Kong, marking its first branch in the city. If you’re passionate about matcha and all things green tea, this is the place to be. Let’s explore the world of contemporary Japanese lifestyle and exceptional food culture as we step into this delightful haven.
A Taste of Japan in Hong Kong
Brought to you by Cafe Deco Group, Nana’s Green Tea is no stranger to the global scene, with 73 locations in Japan and outlets around the world. Now, it’s Hong Kong’s turn to savor the magic of matcha. This café chain embodies the Japanese spirit of omotenashi, which means mindful and caring hospitality. Prepare to be pampered.
A Journey of Matcha and More
The story of Nana’s Green Tea began in 2001 in Tokyo, where it emerged as a modern Japanese tea house. It quickly gained fame for its exquisite matcha-flavored drinks, desserts, and savory dishes. Originally named Green Tea Café, it adopted the current name in 2006, honoring the founder’s daughter, Nana, and embracing the auspicious connotation of the number seven in Japanese culture.
The Art of Matcha
At the heart of Nana’s Green Tea is matcha, sourced mainly from Yamamasa Koyamaen, a prestigious tea manufacturer in Uji, Kyoto, with a history spanning over 200 years. Traditional stone mill grinding maximizes the matcha’s flavor, resulting in a melt-in-the-mouth experience with refreshing bitterness and green aromas.
Sip and Savor
Whether you’re a matcha enthusiast or simply curious, there’s something for everyone. Highlights include Matcha Latte, Hojicha Latte, Azuki Latte (Sweetened Red Bean), Black Sesame Latte, and Matcha Latte Frappe. The signature Matcha Azuki Shiratama Latte is a must-try, adorned with shiratama mochi (sweet rice-flour balls), azuki (red bean paste), and whipped cream.
For those who love the roasted flavors of hojicha, the Hojicha Kuromitsu Latte, topped with whipped cream and kuromitsu (Japanese black sugar syrup), is a treat for the senses.
Parfait Perfection
Nana’s Green Tea takes parfaits to the next level with eight luscious flavors. The Matcha or Hojicha Nama Chocolate Parfait is a decadent choice, featuring handmade matcha or hojicha pudding, vanilla soft serve, azuki or hojicha white bean paste, and silky nama chocolate.
For fans of warabimochi’s unique texture, don’t miss the Matcha or Hojicha Warabimochi Parfait, dusted with nutty kinako (roasted soybean flour) and drizzled with kuromitsu, while vanilla soft serve adds to the indulgence.
Savory Delights
If you’re looking for a hearty meal, Nana’s Green Tea offers salads, rice dishes, donburi (Japanese rice bowls), and udon sets. These dishes emphasize health and nutrition, showcasing the quality of locally sourced ingredients. The Chicken Soboro Onsen Egg Don, Marinated Tuna Avocado Don, and Soy Milk Cheese Risotto are just a few tempting options.
A Unique Café Experience
Each Nana’s Green Tea outlet is carefully designed to be unique while maintaining a sense of unity. The AIRSIDE location spans more than 1,600 sq. ft, offering 60 seats in a contemporary pergola setting. The dappled ceiling treatment adds a touch of seasonality and nature’s grandeur.
Intriguingly, the interiors reflect the brand’s commitment to joyous, thoughtful hospitality, breaking free from typical café chain conventions.
Location and Hours
You can find Nana’s Green Tea at Shop B128, AIRSIDE, 2 Concorde Road, Kai Tak, Kowloon, Hong Kong. It’s conveniently located a short walk from Kai Tak MTR Station (Exit C) and opens daily from 12:00 noon to 9:30 p.m. Exciting news for future visits: a second café is set to open at The Southside in Wong Chuk Hang next year.
