By William Snyder
In the recent year, matcha has become a global trend, particularly among high school students and college students. From lattes at local cafés to recipes on social media like TikTok and Instagram, matcha is popping up everywhere. But what exactly is behind this green wave, and why are so many students choosing matcha over other drinks? In this article, we’ll dive into the matcha trend, explore what makes it so appealing, and consider how it’s shaping café culture and student life.
Blake Huard, senior and avid matcha enjoyer, shares his perspective on what sets matcha apart, “Matcha is very refreshing but also avoids being too sweet. It’s bitter taste may not be everyone’s cup of tea, but I think it creates a drink that can be super tasty but not make you feel terrible afterwards.”
Blake’s response highlights how matcha’s unique flavor appeals to those looking for something less sugary and more refreshing than typical beverages.
Not everyone shares Blake’s enthusiasm for matcha. For example, student Gabriel Tavares put it simply: “Matcha tastes like grass.” This range of opinions shows that while the matcha trend is strong, it’s certainly not for everyone and that is also part of what makes it such an interesting topic among students.
But let’s hold on for a second, what is matcha? Matcha is an old traditional Japanese tea that most foreigners seem to be very divided on. But somehow this tea has grown in popularity to unseen heights. Even on social media, there are different subcategories of matcha content: those who make their own and teach how to do so, or those who show their order for others to use at cafes.
After all this, I had to try the drink for myself. Personally, I’m on the side that thinks matcha tastes like grass. Even though it wasn’t my favorite, I understand why so many people are drawn to it. For me, the matcha trend seems to be about more than just flavor—it also offers a sense of belonging and community appeal among students, even if I don’t fully connect with it myself.
Whether you’re a fan or not, it’s clear that matcha has made its mark. Its rise from a centuries-old tradition to a modern social media superstar shows how quickly tastes can change and how trends can bring people together—or spark some lively debates. So next time you see a bright green drink on your friend’s Instagram story, you’ll know there’s more to matcha than just its color.