For the matcha girlies and gents out there, it’s perfectly valid to feel skeptical after seeing multiple online rave reviews about a café’s matcha latte—especially when you’re worried it might just be overhyped.
From L-R: Steep Kohi, Alkemi, and &Matcha (Photo: WhenInManila.com)
We’ve been in your shoes. But when we visited Davao and finally had some much-needed free time to explore the city’s growing matcha scene, we made sure to drop by these spots to see whether their matcha was truly a hit or a miss. And throughout our trip, the matcha drinks we tried genuinely did not disappoint!
If you’re heading to Davao soon, here are the places we visited—along with our honest verdict on each matcha we tried.
1. Alkemi
If you’re looking for great matcha paired with a fun, hands-on experience that elevates your matcha-drinking ritual, Alkemi is the place to be.
Alkemi (Photo: WhenInManila.com)
The space may be small—which might not be ideal if you’re coming with a big group or planning a long catch-up—but it guarantees a quiet and cozy atmosphere. Guests also have the option to whisk their own matcha, a thoughtful touch that lets you live out your inner fantasy of being a barista in a slow bar.
We were able to try two of their drinks. Their Kagoshima (P290) delivers a nutty, umami-forward, and potent flavor profile. The first sip was truly memorable, with a clean and nutty finish and a satisfyingly rich mouthfeel that makes you want to drink it right away before it even has the chance to get watered down.
We also tried Off the Grid, one of their more premium offerings. Priced at P495, it features a milder umami profile but leans more toward fruity notes, reminiscent of ripe avocados.
Alkemi is located at JLMC Building, J. Luna St, Poblacion District, Davao City.
2. Steep Kohi
If you’re not pressed for time, Steep Kohi is definitely worth the visit—and honestly, the long waiting time pays off the moment you take your first sip of their matcha.
Steep Kohi (Photo: WhenInManila.com)
The space is small and unassuming, but you’ll be surprised by the long lines and the number of people patiently waiting for their drinks. The atmosphere feels relaxed and unpretentious, giving off the sense that they are confident in what they’re crafting behind the counter.
We’re glad we got to try their Genmatcha Volume 1 (P230). Made with toasted rice matcha and served with oat milk, the drink easily exceeded our expectations. It has a distinct, memorable roasted flavor—so much so that we didn’t even realize we had finished it in under ten minutes. It was just that good. They also offer Volume 2 for those who prefer something bolder and more intense.
Aside from the genmatcha series, Steep Kohi also serves classic matcha and hojicha, along with specialty fusion drinks like matcha with strawberry, Yakult, or ube. If matcha isn’t your thing, they also offer coffee and refreshing mocktails.
Steep Kohi is located at Circumferential Rd, Poblacion District, Davao City.
3. Out of Boredom
We didn’t want to leave Davao without trying a specialty drink, so we headed to Out of Boredom!
Out of Boredom (Photo: WhenInManila.com)
If you’re the type of matcha drinker who prefers straightforward flavors and isn’t into anything too experimental or overloaded with additions, their classic matcha latte is a safe and satisfying choice. You can choose your preferred whisking method: a cold whisk if you want something creamier and less astringent, or traditional if you’re after a smoother, more full-bodied cup. You can also select your preferred matcha powder by asking their barista.
However, if you’re feeling adventurous, their Black Sesame Matcha (P250) is absolutely worth the hype. This drink is perfect for those who love peanut butter–like flavors, as the black sesame cream delivers that same nutty richness. Despite the added cream, it doesn’t overpower the matcha’s umami and earthy notes. Instead, everything blends seamlessly. It’s the kind of drink that feels indulgent, yet still guarantees you’re tasting real matcha rather than just a sweet, milky beverage.
Out of Boredom is located at Door 3, 2nd Floor, JTL Plaza Bldg, Doña Vicenta, Davao City.
4. Good One Cafe and Yogurt
Are you planning a girls’ day (or night) out, or feeling in the mood for a self-care date? Either way, whip up a good outfit and head to Good One Coffee and Yogurt.
Good One Cafe and Yogurt (Photo: WhenInManila.com)
For real café enthusiasts, there’s always a slight hesitation when stepping into an aesthetically pleasing coffee shop—worrying that you’re paying more for the visuals than for the quality of the drinks. Thankfully, that’s not the case behind Good One’s pink walls and whimsical ambiance. Their Matcha Latte (P230), made with ceremonial-grade Uji matcha and oat milk, delivers a smooth, well-balanced cup with a clean umami profile and subtle natural sweetness that never turns bitter or chalky.
Apart from their matcha menu, they also serve yogurt! It’s an easy, refreshing dessert to pair with your drink as you catch up with a friend or spend an entire afternoon lost in a good book.
Good One Cafe and Yogurt is located at Sputnik St, Doña Vicenta Village, Davao City.
5. &Matcha
We were so glad we concluded our Davao trip with &Matcha!
&Matcha (Photo: WhenInManila.com)
While their Cabaguio branch is smaller, it still carries that quaint, cozy, and homey atmosphere that makes you feel comfortable and at ease the moment you step inside. They may have a limited menu, but you can tell you’re getting your money’s worth—each cup of matcha is thoughtfully sourced and expertly prepared.
While they’re best known for their Uji Matcha and Strawberry Matcha, their Shizuoka (P280) was a spectacular way to cap off our Davao adventure. It’s heavy-bodied and creamy, with a light, clean aftertaste that lingers pleasantly without feeling overpowering.
&Matcha has two branches in Dava! They have a bigger space located at Three Yards, Casiana V.A. St, Matina, Davao City, while their smaller branch is located at 2nd Floor Unit 1, Don Dionisio Complex, J.P Cabaguio Ave, Davao City
ALSO READ: This Matcha Cafe in Davao is Putting Filipino Ancient Salt In Your Drink
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