DAVAO CITY (MindaNews / 23 March) — Matcha, once a niche alternative to coffee, is steadily gaining popularity in Davao City, as matcha-centered fairs and pop-ups attract growing crowds and take on a distinctly local character, signaling a shift in the city’s café culture. Over the weekend, matcha vendors gathered at separate fairs in major malls, including SM City Davao (March 18-24) and Abreeza (March 19-21), witnessing steady foot traffic, long customer lines, and increasing demand for the traditional Japanese drink reimagined with local flavors. Bea of The Matcha Burrow noted the rise of matcha pop-ups in Davao, humorously calling the city the “matcha capital of the Philippines,” while Almira of Midori Matcha Davao reported selling over 500 cups during the Abreeza fair, highlighting strong consumer interest. This trend echoes Davao’s historical ties to Japan, once dubbed “Little Tokyo” due to its significant Japanese community. Vendors emphasize a supportive community spirit, with Bea likening the camaraderie to the coffee scene, where local businesses collaborate and share mutual support. Matcha’s appeal as a coffee alternative also resonates with consumers, some of whom prefer its lighter taste. Local vendors are creatively adapting matcha to Filipino palates, blending it with familiar flavors like banana, langka, and Biscoff, while others focus on classic preparations. Almira stresses matcha’s versatility, catering to diverse tastes whether served pure or paired with other flavors. From experimental blends to traditional methods, matcha in Davao reflects local creativity and adaptability, transforming an imported trend into a widely embraced drink. The growing fairs, crowds, and brands suggest a vibrant new landscape for matcha, offering room for innovation and tradition alike. (Bea Gatmaytan / MindaNews)
