Did you know that you can familiarize yourself with Japanese tea and tea culture without stepping foot outside of Berlin? Meet Macha-Macha, a café and shop for all things Japanese tea that has been occupying a small, pleasant space across from Volkspark Hasenheide since 2014. Inside, you’ll be met with over 25 exquisite teas and a fantastic house-made matcha cheesecake that tops our list as the best in Berlin. Owner Erik and Japanese tea instructor Yumi work directly with tea farms in Japan to ensure the products they buy and serve are of the utmost quality, plus they often host tea tastings, ceremonies (experience a Samurai Style Tea Ceremony this Sunday, 24.9.17), and other events to introduce Japanese tea culture to curious minds. Sit in the front room and watch the tea making process or request a seat in the back where one shoeless step across the threshold will transport you to a Japanese chashitsu (tea ceremony room) where you can relax in the zen atmosphere and enjoy your tea, and cake, in peace. (Text & Photos: Devan Grimsrud)
Macha-Macha, Hasenheide 16, 10967 Berlin-Kreuzberg; map
Wed-Sat 13-19h, Sun 13-18h
Samurai Style Tea Ceremony 24.9.17; 13h, 14.30h, 16h
