July 03, 2025

A Decade of Matchaya

Back then, it all started from a journey to Japan, where we were intrigued by the traditions and cultures of Chado – The Way of Tea. That first unforgettable Matcha experience lingered long after the trip ended. But back home, nothing quite measured up.

So we went back to Japan, visited prefectures and sourced for premium ingredients from 4th Generation Farmers.

In 2015, armed with just $3,000 and a suitcase full of dreams, we began as a humble pop-up with milk teas.

The first store at Icon Village became a quiet rebellion against fast food culture and instant mixes. Later, our Cathay tea bar marked a defining moment, where a kiosk evolved into a full café space - Progressive Tea Bar.

Here, tradition wasn't preserved in amber but infused into fast-moving lifestyles. Menus were refreshed with seasonal Japanese offerings while engineering our menu to better influence customers' preference.

In the years that followed, we expanded into Paragon, JEM, Takashimaya, Changi Airport, Suntec City and CapitaSpring. The journey even crossed borders into Indonesia!

Alongside cafés, the brand expanded into bottled teas, soft-serve tubs, cakes and retail merchandise for homeowners to enjoy teas at the comfort of their own home.

During this journey, we also collaborated with beloved brands and built a quiet community of home bakers and cafe owners under #friendsofmatchaya, who continue to inspire us with their creativity.

Not forgetting our Mobile Tea Bar and Matcha Appreciation Wellness Workshop which have been well-received over the years and trusted by partners to be part of their key events and engagements too.