For All of BU's Performative, Matcha-loving Men: A Guide to Boston's Best Matchas

By Clara Kye

Graphic by Katie King

Among the thousands of students walking across Boston University’s campus, you are likely to spot a few people with a striking and eye-catching appearance. They’re probably guys wearing baggy jeans that are ten sizes too big and held up by a belt and listening to niche, underground music through their tangled wired earbuds. Perhaps you’ll see them on the T, leaning against the interior wall reading a book with a drink in their hand.

These people are what the internet has categorized as “performative men,” and their most recognizable feature is the bright green iced drink they always seem to be carrying: matcha.

This article serves as a perfectly curated guide to the best matcha in Boston for all of the performative men to try out. Of course, the guide is open for all students to follow.

Blank Street

If you’ve never heard of a place called Blank Street, are you really living in Boston? Blank Street is probably one of the most popular places in Boston, known for its diverse matcha flavors. Their matcha flavors are limited and change every few weeks, with options such as Strawberry Shortcake Matcha, Blueberry Matcha and even Carrot Cake Matcha!

I recently had the Banana Bread Matcha which had a nutty, cinnamony flavor that captured the essence of a warm and toasty autumn. If you’re going to the location in Newbury, beware, because there’s undoubtedly going to be a long line of people waiting to get a taste of these intriguing matcha drinks.

Maruichi Select

If you’re looking for a cafe you can sit in to study, head over to Maruichi Select located in Brookline. Although less unique than that of Blank Street, Maruichi has its fair share of charming drinks which include Mango Matcha, Strawberry Matcha and Cherry Matcha.

One of Maruichi’s perks is that it also has a variety of Japanese food options, perfect to pair with your drink of choice.

Kyo Matcha

Finally, a fan favorite for matcha is Kyo Matcha. Also located in Brookline, Kyo Matcha is always packed with students wanting to order a little sweet treat at night. Sure, their matchas are great, but explore the menu, and you’ll find yourself captivated by their one-of-a-kind matcha desserts.

From Matcha Parfaits, to Matcha Crepe Cakes and even to Matcha Roll Cakes, you’ll be sure to find a dessert that’ll satisfy your matcha cravings.

These are only a few of the many matcha spots in Boston, but I’d highly recommend giving them a try. Whether you’re an absolute matcha endorser or looking to get into the popular drink, I’m sure one of these spots is bound to be of your liking.

And when you do get a chance to visit, be on the lookout for one of those performative men in line, because they always seem to follow the matcha.