Kyo Matcha opens in Chinatown, attracting long lines of customers.

Kyo Matcha, a new addition to Philadelphia’s vibrant Chinatown, has quickly garnered attention since its August opening. The establishment is characterized by an inviting atmosphere, eye-catching branding, and a unique menu that features colorful drinks and matcha-infused soft serve, enticing a broad range of customers.

Kyo Matcha operates in a niche that has been expanding in recent years, joining the ranks of other matcha-centric spots such as Matcha Panda Cafe and Matcha Cafe Maiko. These establishments have emerged alongside a rising demand for high-quality Japanese tea, especially as some suppliers struggle to keep pace with this booming market.

What sets Kyo Matcha apart is not only its ambiance but also its operational structure. The franchise is the collaborative effort of Tom Kang and Danya Li, along with Alex An and Jing Xiong, whose diverse backgrounds include hospitality, trading, and user experience design. This partnership reflects a blend of expertise that aims to offer a superior matcha experience in the city.

Notably, the beverages and desserts at Kyo Matcha are crafted by a team of seasoned chefs who have relevant experience in food preparation, ensuring that every item is carefully constructed. The menu is a harmonious balance of drinks and desserts, showcasing the versatility of matcha through various preparations, including crepes and layered cakes.

Located on 11th Street between Race and Vine Streets, Kyo Matcha occupies a space formerly home to Vietnam Palace. The owners chose this slightly off-the-beaten-path location with the intention of creating a new destination for both locals and visitors in Chinatown. Kang expressed that establishing a visually appealing and distinctive concept could draw more foot traffic to the area.

While Kyo Matcha’s menu items must be approved by the corporate office, the franchise model offers the owners the opportunity to innovate and cater to the local palate. Customers can enjoy a customizable level of sweetness in their drinks, with a standout offering being the simple iced matcha, which allows patrons to experience the pure flavor of this beloved green tea without additives.

Despite ongoing global shortages of matcha due to the lengthy growth cycle of tea leaves, the popularity of matcha products continues to rise. Kyo Matcha launched concurrently with the opening of a branch of Heytea, a well-known Chinese tea brand, further contributing to the influx of beverage shops in the neighborhood.

Kang noted that matcha has become especially popular among younger demographics, attracting a mix of students, young professionals, families, and even tourists. This trend signifies an enduring appetite for accessible matcha offerings as the market continues to evolve.

Kyo Matcha is located at 222 N. 11th St., and is open from noon to 10 p.m. Monday through Thursday, and from 11:30 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday.