Ummm… Chicago just leveled up! Seriously. Thanks to Sugoi Sweets on Ashland, you now have matcha options that beat every other place in town.
The downside: You cannot get a matcha drink (no lattes, straight tea, americanos, etc.. for now at least).
The UPSIDE: They use really great matcha. No, like they actually use great matcha. They’re not using good stuff, they’re using great stuff. We’re not talking “Rare” Tea Cellars 🤢. There’s no Rishi. Not even Spirit Tea or Kilogram or Mizuba in play here. Instead, they’re actually using great quality matcha directly from Marukyu Koyamaen in Uji, Kyoto, Japan.
So, despite not having matcha drinks, Sugoi Sweets still gets top marks for their use of great matcha, which they also sell to the public, AND use to make an incredible (vegan) soft serve matcha ice cream, among lots of other (mostly non-vegan) delish treats. This makes them our top pick for Where to Buy Matcha Powder in Chicago!
Our Full Review
If you’re a matcha lover in Chicago, then Sugoi Sweets is a hidden gem that you simply cannot miss. Located at 937 N Ashland Ave, this primarily chocolate shop may not seem like the obvious place for matcha enthusiasts, but trust me, they know their matcha game!
Firstly, let’s talk about their amazing little bonbons. Sugoi Sweets specializes in creating gorgeous and delicious confections that are packed with perfect flavors. While their primary focus may be chocolate, their matcha creations are truly exceptional. The matcha they use is of incredible quality and it shines through in every bite. The depth of flavor and the smoothness of the matcha-infused filling will leave you craving for more.
Now, I must mention that Sugoi Sweets doesn’t serve traditional matcha drinks like lattes or straight tea. But fear not, because they have something equally special instead. During the summer months (maybe even year-round), they offer a vegan matcha soft serve ice cream that is simply heavenly. In fact, it’s not just the best vegan ice cream in Chicago, but also the best matcha ice cream you’ll find in the entire city. The creamy texture, combined with the vibrant and authentic matcha flavor, creates a dessert experience that is unparalleled. It actually has the rich, real matcha flavor you’re craving.
What sets Sugoi Sweets apart from other matcha spots in Chicago is their dedication to using only the finest matcha. There’s no Rishi or Spirit Tea or Kilogram or Mizuba, which would be fine, but NO! They don’t settle for just good matcha; they go above and beyond by sourcing their matcha directly from Marukyu Koyamaen in Uji. This is a testament to their commitment to offering their customers the absolute best quality matcha available. Even better, they offer tins of this incredibly high-quality Japanese matcha for purchase right in their shop. This alone ends up making Sugoi Sweets the best place to buy matcha powder in Chicago.
While Sugoi Sweets may not be your typical matcha spot, their dedication to using nothing but the best matcha, combined with their delectable creations, makes them a must-visit for any matcha aficionado in Chicago. So, next time you’re in the area, don’t miss the opportunity to indulge in their matcha bonbons (not vegan) or treat yourself to the best vegan matcha ice cream in the city of Chicago. Your taste buds will thank you!