Our Story

Your trusted source of authentic Japanese matcha

At Matcha Friends, we’re more than just matcha—we’re a movement. Founded by a USC graduate passionate about authentic matcha and giving back, our mission is to change how you enjoy green tea while making a difference.

Based in Los Angeles, we craft high-quality matcha with care. What sets us apart is our commitment to the community. With every order, 15% of our profits go directly to feeding the homeless in LA, helping us create meaningful change with every cup.

Join the Matcha Friends family and enjoy the perfect blend of flavor, quality, and purpose. Together, we’re brewing a better future.

Our Commitment to Quality

Directly Sourced from Japan's Finest Tea Estates

Matcha Friends is built on lifelong friendships and a shared appreciation for Japanese culture. Our frequent visits to Japan have fostered strong relationships with family-owned tea estates in Uji, Kyoto, and Kagoshima, where matcha production is an art passed down through generations. By working closely with Japanese farmers, processors, and blending experts, we ensure that our matcha is of the highest quality, steeped in tradition, and sustainably sourced.

Shop Now

Inspired by Matcha, Driven by Purpose

In 2015, as matcha gained global recognition as a superfood, we noticed that quality was often misrepresented, with many brands labeling products as “ceremonial” or “culinary” grade without consistent standards. Our journey began with the goal of setting the record straight, introducing a grade of matcha that was versatile, genuine, and celebrated for its traditional roots. From our beginnings as passionate university students to the present day, our vision has grown to focus on empowering customers to enjoy both traditional and modern matcha preparations, all while fostering a community that values quality and authenticity.

Transparency in Pricing

We believe in fair and transparent pricing. Unlike many brands that market premium matcha at inflated prices, we use a cost-plus pricing model, ensuring that you only pay for the actual quality and craftsmanship behind each tin of matcha. We’re committed to making top-grade matcha affordable and accessible. If a product is priced at a premium, it’s because it genuinely reflects the cost of producing that quality, not a marketing markup.

Empowering Community and Students

Order Online >

From our earliest days, we’ve been dedicated to more than just selling tea. We actively partner with local organizations to coordinate volunteer projects that align with student interests. By engaging students in community projects and organizing events that address societal challenges, we’re creating a space for young people to build leadership skills, form meaningful relationships, and make a positive impact. At Matcha Friends, we believe that each cup of matcha can inspire change, one sip at a time.

Beyond the Cup – Education and Innovation

Our mission goes beyond delivering high-quality matcha; we aim to educate and empower. With every purchase, we share insights on matcha quality, preparation, and culture so that our customers can make informed choices. Whether you’re enjoying a ceremonial matcha ritual or a modern matcha latte, we want you to feel connected to the rich heritage of Japanese tea culture and confident in your selection.

Buy Now