Forget Matcha, what about Hojicha??
You probably already know about the Matcha Epidemic happening all over the world. If you didn't, TLDR, demand's high and supply is low, so prices of matcha powder have been skyrocketing. That said, I think a lot of cafés and businesses have been pivoting towards Matcha's lesser known older cousin, Hojicha.
For regular folks like myself, Hojicha is basically a roasted version of Matcha, but made with mature tea leaves, stems, and stalks. Think smoky flavours with notes of toast and a hint of nuttiness.
Similar to its cousin, Hojicha is versatile. It can be paired with milk (oatmilk is best imo), espresso (like a dirty hojicha), and so much more. I went down the rabbit hole searching for combinations, and I found this cafe that got really creative with their hojicha pairings!
🥥 Hojicha Coconut ($7.00) –
Earthy hojicha with coconut water. It tastes light, toasty, and kinda nutty. It's refreshing yet packs a flavourful punch.
🍂 Hojicha Harmony ($7.00) –
A Hojicha latte infused with red dates, and longan. The only way i can describe this is that it tastes very 'zen', the each ingredient complements each other very well.
🍫 Hojicha Milo ($7.50) –
Hojicha blended with creamy, rich Milo. It's like a play on a Milo Dinosaur but with a Hojicha twist. Comforting, chocolatey, and nostalgic.
Although this post is mainly about Hojicha, I just have to talk about their Savoury Shrimp Croissant.
🍤 Savoury Shrimp Croissant ($7.00) –
A flaky croissant filled with their house-made “hae bee hiam” (shrimp paste) and mayo, offering a savoury, spicy, and satisfying bite. If you love savoury pastries, this one's a must try!
🛒Promotion
In celebration of Singapore’s 60th birthday this year, all customers can enjoy one Hojicha Milo and one Savoury Shrimp Croissant for $14.50, and get the second set for 60% off.
Available at 𝗯𝗿𝘄𝗱 / 𝗞𝗜𝗡𝗡 Hongkong St and Keong Saik Rd outlets from 1 to 30 September 2025
Located within KINN Habitat
5 Hongkong St
Singapore 059648
🚇 6-minute walk from Clarke Quay MRT
🚇 10-minute walk from Raffles Place MRT
Located within KINN Studios
69 Keong Saik Rd
Singapore 089165
🚇 6-minute walk from Maxwell MRT
🚇 7-minute walk from Outram Park MRT
🚇 8-minute walk from Chinatown MRT
If you’re exploring Hojicha for the first time or looking to deepen your appreciation, it helps to know how versatile this roasted tea truly is. Beyond the classic Hojicha latte, which is smooth and comforting, you can experiment by adding oat milk to highlight its natural nuttiness without overpowering its toasted flavor. One of my favorite discoveries has been the "Dirty Hojicha Latte," where a shot of espresso adds a rich depth and slight bitterness that beautifully complements the tea’s smoky tones. Another fantastic pairing is with coconut water — this light and refreshing twist keeps it bright yet flavorful, perfect for warm days or when you want something less creamy. I also recommend seeking out cafes that get creative with their Hojicha pairings. For instance, I tried a "Hojicha Milo," blending creamy Milo chocolate drink with Hojicha for a nostalgic, cozy treat that tricks the palate in the best way. Similarly, a Hojicha latte infused with red dates and longan offers a naturally sweet and ‘zen’ experience, highlighting subtle layers in the tea. Aside from drinks, the food pairing possibilities are exciting. The Savoury Shrimp Croissant I had alongside my Hojicha drink was a revelation — flaky pastry with house-made shrimp paste and mayo, balancing savory and spicy notes that made each sip of Hojicha even more satisfying. For those hunting for a relaxing spot, cafes offering these Hojicha specialties in Singapore are easy to find near popular MRT stops like Clarke Quay, Raffles Place, and Maxell. Many spots celebrate occasions with promotions, making it a perfect time to try special combos like the Hojicha Milo and shrimp croissant deal. If you love experimenting with tea and want a refreshing change from Matcha, give Hojicha a try. Its smoky aroma, versatility in drinks, and delicious food pairings have made it my go-to lately. Whether it’s a warm latte or a chilled coconut blend, Hojicha carries a comforting, nostalgic vibe that’s perfect for tea lovers seeking something a little different.
