Niko Neko Matcha in Bangsar is currently my go-to place when it comes to matcha based drinks. It pays homage to the traditional Japanese tea, crafting specialty drinks based on one’s palate and preference. Think wine/coffee appreciation based on tasting notes, in the form of matcha.
The space at Niko Neko is small – I reckon only a handful (10 people max) will get to sit and enjoy their cup of matcha. If you’re out of luck, you’ll have to stand or have it to go. I got lucky so I was able to find an empty table to tuck into my hojicha croissant and two of Niko Neko’s specialty drinks.
Kiku Matcha and Tsubaki Hojicha (iced)
At Niko Neko, you first start by choosing your tea base. I opted for KIKU (RM9) as it has a stronger matcha profile, prepared as a latte (RM3 top up). I don’t fancy sugar in my coffee/matcha drinks in general, so I opted to go without. Though I reckon a wee bit of sugar would help accentuate the umami notes of this tea.
Jien got himself a TSUBAKI (RM7), a hojicha base in iced latte (RM3 top-up) form. He asked for a bit of sugar in his iced Tsubaki and I feel it has a good balance of tea, milk and sweetness.
Hojicha Croissant
The Hojicha Croissant (RM10) puts a lot of bakeries to shame in Klang Valley – buttery, flaky and light with rich roasted tea filling at the centre. A collaboration between Niko Neko and Dew, this is definitely one of the better croissants I’ve eaten in a while, in Klang Valley and abroad.
Service is relatively quick and the staff are helpful when it comes to recommendation. If you’re a first timer at Niko Neko, they will bring you through the order process and guide you where needed.
It’s not a place for you to set up camp and work from your laptop but I’d say Niko Neko is a good place to go to if you’re a matcha drinker looking for craft and quality.
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Ambiance: 6/10
Price: 6/10
Food: 7.5/10 (pork-free)
Verdict: Good matcha-based drinks. Try the croissants as well.
Niko Neko Matcha
82A, Lorong Maarof,
Bangsar, 59000 Kuala Lumpur.
Tel: 011-2355 5405
Business hours: 12noon till 7pm
(closed Monday)