Health and wellness trends move almost as quickly as fashion trends these days, and it can be hard to keep track of each new lifestyle fad that is being introduced day in and day out. Much to all of our surprise,  parallel to the “athleisure” trend of the moment are people who are actually working on their health and fitness and not just dressing like it. If 2015 was the year of green juices, then 2016 is certainly the year of matcha tea, the other green beverage that people are toting around like Paris Hilton’s chihuahua. Luckily, unlike Starbucks’ #pinkdrink that was over-consumed and over-instagrammed this summer, matcha tea, the ingredient in the green tea latte you’ve seen everyone drinking, actually has health benefits.

Although matcha is made from the same plant as regular green tea, the tea leaves themselves are ground into powder as opposed to simplybeing steeped in hot water, making the nutritional value far greater. One cup of matcha is meant to equal ten cups of brewed green tea in terms of nutritional value, and three times as many antioxidants. It’s kind of like skipping the margarita mix and going straight for the tequila shots to escalate your hangover night! However, that’s real matcha we’re talking about. Corporate Starbucks had to take what’s trendy and ruin it just to please the masses, so don’t be fooled- their matcha powder is mostly sugar, which, of course, is counterproductive if you’re trying to sip on the green to get lean. Thank god I took it upon myself to travel the city of Boston and discover the best places for you to get your Matcha fix!

1)Dig Inn, 557 Boylston Street

This aesthetically pleasing, cafeteria style farm-to-table chain is brand new to Boston as of this summer, and while it probably deserves a post of its own, all you need to know that it’s the best place to sit and enjoy a matcha tea. Everything served is thoughtfully sourced, and the bright, natural lighting, marble tables, and white neon signs make it the most chic place to be seen sipping. They also have an iced mint matcha if you want to make it a little more interesting!

2) Ogawa Coffee, 10 Milk Street

This minimalistic Japanese coffee chain opened its first international branch right here in Boston. Leading the operation is 2010 World Latte Art Champion Haruna Murayama, so if you’re lucky enough to have her as your barista, chances are high that you might receive one of the prettiest matcha lattes in the world. Also offering up unique Asain bites, you can even order a matcha cake roll and matcha jelly if you’re really into the craze.

3) Sip Cafe, 0 Post Office Square

Located smack dab in the middle of Post Office Square in a building that resembles more of a conservatory than a cafe, Sip is a charming place to enjoy a matcha latte. Outdoor seating is available, but the bright glass walls of the building give you the park side atmosphere wherever you go. Pushed to the back of my mind for winter, the Red Chili Cocoa also caught my eye on the menu and I will absolutely be back.

4) DAVIDs Tea, 298 Washington Street

Best if you’re on the go, DAVIDs Tea does only that: tea. The man behind the counter was generous enough to talk me through the many different types of matcha they offered, even explaining which ones are best accompanied with milk or left as is. He showed me how they prepare it, and gave me a long speech about why I should avoid Starbucks at all costs. The employees there are knowledgeable and make a delicious matcha latte!

5) Pavement Coffeehouse, 286 Newbury Street

Pavement is kind of the OG of cool coffee spots for the hipster and artsy crowd, so I saved it for last. You’ve probably been to one of their many locations, or at least heard of them. I was pleased to discover they have matcha tea, and it’s a great spot to get one. If you’re strolling down Newbury Street, skip the over sweetened, overrated Starbucks and come here instead.

Enjoy sipping on the good stuff 🙂

Are we missing any Matcha? Let us know in the comments below!