Setsugekka East Village

Visited this place to try the traditional matcha that is prepared by hand. It’s a very small place, the dining area is mostly tatami with tea wares, and there is just a big enough for a few customers to stand. You may sit on the tatami, but if you will place your feet on it, I would recommend you to remove your shoes. The shop itself is in a place where if you blink you’ll miss it. Their operating hours are limited, and I was unsure as to whether I’d be able to see the server prepare the matcha by hand before going, as nobody answered the phone when I called to ask. However, I was pleased when I arrived and ordered the traditional hot matcha. When I visited, I was offered a choice of two different types of ceremonial matcha: Jobetsugi (refreshing flavor and light-bodied), or Unjonotomo (thick with deep umami flavor). I went with Unjonotomo for an umami flavor. Surely enough, the server prepared the tea by hand. The taste of the matcha was absolutely satisfying. This place definitely offers a traditional matcha experience. I believe they offer special ceremonies and events, but you will have to check their website for the schedule and to make a reservation.

Very calm, quiet and intimate environment. Really good quality matcha. The woman working there was very nice and knowledgeable about each item. Will be visiting every time I’m in NY. Highly recommend if you’re heavily into matcha

Hidden gem in NYC When you walk in, you are transported to a tea house on the other side of the world. The calm, quiet atmosphere accented by traditional Japanese flute music provides a beautiful respite from chaotic Manhattan. There is a variety of seating, including an intimate table where the owner expertly explains the different matcha grades and takes you through a traditional preparation (ceremony). I can’t praise the owner, Souheki, enough — kind, knowledgeable, and so humble. She told me of her farms visits in Japan, pointing to photographs she took that hung in the shop. She was warm, welcoming, and happy to answer all my questions. For the people here complaining about the price — you missed the point. This isn’t the fad matcha drink from Starbucks. You are getting such a richer, deeper experience. You’re getting hundreds of years of knowledge and culture. You’re getting the highest grade organic matcha hand served to you by the only certified tea shop in New York City. Have some respect. Setsugekka also offers contemporary matcha delicacies including an iced strawberry matcha and a matcha affogato. This place is a must-go.

Calm spot for specialized matcha. There are only 5 seats to watch the matcha preparation, but then you have to go with the drink as a takeout item. The quality of the matcha here is quite good. The staff is extremely friendly and kind, and also very knowledgeable about the origin of the matcha they are serving. Strong recommend if you are a big matcha enthusiast.

A very methodical matcha preparation inside a quiet space taken up mostly by a tatami mat floor and some interesting art such as a mill machine. The front desk for seating and paying is much further in. It seems this store prioritizes takeout over sit in. You can watch the staff member take pride in preparing your drink methodically and delicately. Overall a soothing relaxing place place to be in to wait for your order.