Got Matcha?
By Salma El-Hajj
- 2025 Summer Issue
Looking for the best matcha in Ottawa? You’re in the right place. This is insight from a true matcha fanatic who has an entire photo album to prove it! Over the past few years, Ottawa has steadily embraced the love for this vibrant green drink. But let’s be honest, not everyone gets it right or does so consistently. Whether you’re planning an afternoon study session, a cozy coffee date, or a sunny city stroll with a cold drink in hand, here are the top 3 matcha spots in Ottawa that you absolutely should not miss.
Happy Goat Coffee Co. (Sandy Hill), on 317 Rue Wilbrod St.
Rating (10/10)
While you may be familiar with this location and its proximity to the University, you might never have guessed that it serves the best matcha in town by far. With the kindest staff, the love is felt in every drink they pour. My go-to order has always been an iced matcha with oat milk. If you’ve been hesitant about matcha, had a bad experience, or have never found a coffee shop that delivers a consistent drink, don’t worry.
I’ve literally watched the baristas count their whisks and even step back from the drink to make sure the ratio of milk to matcha is just right. They take it seriously!
Indeed, after nearly a year of sipping their exceptional matcha, I found out they use Kato Matcha Summer Harvest, a ceremonial-grade matcha, in which you can taste the quality in every sip.
This order has officially converted every matcha-hesitant friend, hater, and even classmates of mine into full- blown fans.
As for the other matcha drinks recently offered at this location, like the honey lavender matcha, they’ve been hit or miss. So if you’re looking for a foolproof drink that’s consistent in both colour and texture, make sure to order the iced matcha with oat milk at this location specifically, and ask for one of the male baristas to make it. They really know what they’re doing!
Little Victories Coffee Roasters, 44 Elgin St
(Rating: 8.5/10)
Understandably loved by many and located in the heart of downtown Ottawa near Parliament, Little Victories has a charm and atmosphere of its own.
While some come for casual chats, to work on their laptops, or to read a book, many bring their families and loved ones on weekends. Not to mention, the SlowPokes running club meets at this location every Saturday at 10:00 a.m.
The café also serves great matcha, with both hot and cold options available. As always, I prefer mine iced with oat milk and no sweeteners.
It may not be quite as exceptional as the matcha from Happy Goat in Sandy Hill, as it has a slightly milkier texture, but it’s still one of the best and easily in my top three.
It’s definitely a space worth visiting for a change of scenery, and it’s made even better by the friendly and welcoming staff.
Oh, and don’t forget to grab a treat on your way out. It makes Saturdays that much better!
Arlington Five, 5 Arlington Ave
(Rating: 8/10)
And last but not least, Arlington Five!
While this coffee shop is a little farther from the University by walking distance, it’s a great spot for both regular and flavoured matcha.
They’re especially known for their blueberry matcha, which tastes almost like a blueberry crumble, as well as their colourful straws. The shop has cute seating both inside and out back.
Personally, I found the iced blueberry matcha much better than the regular iced matcha. I had to ask for a bit more oat milk to balance the taste. But if you’re someone who enjoys sweetened matcha, this place will deliver every time.
And let’s not forget the pin box at the cash register, which I’m always digging through, contemplating which pin I’d drop $10 on if I didn’t have to worry about being a student!
Article written by Salma El-Hajj, also known as “Matcha Girl” by her classmates (2L French Common Law Student)