Bengaluru has once again carved out a unique identity on the national lifestyle map by being named India’s top city for matcha and café culture, while also standing as the only Indian city featured in the global top 30 list. The recognition reflects the city’s vibrant food and beverage scene, youthful energy, cosmopolitan tastes and its growing reputation as a destination for specialty drinks and café-hopping experiences.
Matcha mania takes Bengaluru by storm
Over the past few years, Bengaluru has witnessed a surge in demand for matcha the finely ground, antioxidant-rich green tea powder originally from Japan. Café menus across the city now boast matcha lattes, matcha smoothies, layered matcha desserts and creative fusions like matcha cold brew and matcha pancakes. What was once a niche drink trend has become mainstream, attracting both wellness-conscious customers and café culture enthusiasts.
Why Bengaluru’s café scene stands out
Unlike cities where cafés serve as mere coffee stops, Bengaluru’s café culture has evolved into a social ecosystem. From stylish book cafés and rooftop lounges to quirky themed spaces and plant-based hubs, the city caters to a wide spectrum of tastes. The presence of tech professionals, students, digital nomads and expats has further fueled demand for diverse beverage options, including artisanal matcha, specialty teas and creative mocktails.
International recognition among top global cities
Bengaluru’s inclusion in the global top 30 list for matcha and cafés is particularly significant because it places the city alongside international lifestyle hubs. While cafés proliferate in many parts of the world, curators of the ranking highlighted Bengaluru’s unique blend of innovation, variety and experiential spaces that go beyond standard coffee culture. The city’s ability to adapt global trends and fuse them with local sensibilities earned it a place on the list.
A reflection of Bengaluru’s evolving lifestyle
Food and beverage experts say this achievement is a reflection of Bengaluru’s evolving lifestyle preferences. Younger generations in the city are embracing healthier options and are eager to experiment with global flavours. Matcha’s growing popularity is also linked to its perceived health benefits, including sustained energy, antioxidant content and a smoother caffeine experience compared to coffee.
Impact on local businesses and tourism
The recognition is expected to boost local cafés and entrepreneurs, encouraging them to innovate further and draw visitors looking for unique taste experiences. For tourists, Bengaluru now stands not only as an IT and startup capital but as a destination for culinary exploration and beverage discovery.
As Bengaluru continues to shape trends and set benchmarks in India’s food scene, its status as a matcha and café capital reflects both its cultural dynamism and its appetite for global yet personalised experiences.