Traditional Matcha in the East Village at a Tiny Tatami Teahouse
Sip hand-prepared matcha in the East Village at a tatami teahouse that also runs ceremonies, lessons and workshops.
🍵 A Japanese Tea Ceremony Pause
Matcha in the East Village gets a slower ritual at Setsugekka, a teahouse at 74 E 7th Street where traditional matcha is prepared by hand. The room is exceptionally small, with tatami seating and space for just a few standing customers at once. Keep your party small and settle into the quiet, meditative mood.
Staff guide guests through the selection with deep knowledge of each variety. Ask about the differences between teas and let that conversation shape your cup. The Japanese tea practice reaches past the counter too, with formal and open tea ceremonies, lessons and workshops that bring music and art into the ritual.
Service is walk-in only. The teahouse opens Tuesday through Friday from 1 PM to half past five, and Saturday and Sunday from half past ten in the morning to half past five, with Monday closed. The weekend hours give the longest window for an unhurried cup of traditional matcha.
