Matcha vs Coffee: Why Indian Cafés Should Bet on Green

Coffee has been India’s café darling for decades. From cappuccinos at CCD to third-wave roasters in Bangalore, coffee has dominated menus. But here’s the truth: Matcha is quietly winning the race where coffee falls short.

Why Coffee Isn’t Enough Anymore

Coffee is everywhere. Customers can get it at local cafés, home brewers, even office vending machines. The overexposure has made coffee less “special.” For cafés, this means razor-thin margins and constant pressure to reinvent.

What Matcha Brings to the Table

• Novelty & Exclusivity → Matcha still feels aspirational in India. Customers come to your café specifically for it.

• Premium Pricing → A Matcha latte easily sells at ₹250–₹350, much higher than coffee.

• Health Halo → Unlike coffee, which often gets blamed for acidity or restlessness, Matcha is associated with calm focus and detox.

The Indian Opportunity

Indian millennials are actively seeking “functional foods” — beverages that do something more than just taste good. Coffee provides a buzz. Matcha provides energy, calmness, antioxidants, and beauty benefits. For cafés, it’s not just a menu item — it’s a story that sells.

Final Sip
Coffee built the café culture. Matcha will redefine it.