Matcha vs. Coffee: Which Morning Boost Is Right for You?

For many, mornings don’t start until that first hit of caffeine kicks in. But whether you’re team coffee or newly curious about matcha, there’s more to your daily ritual than just the buzz. At Bodega Café, we serve both — and we’re here to break down what makes each one unique so you can sip smarter.
What Is Matcha?
Matcha is a finely ground green tea powder that originated in Japan. It’s made from shade-grown tea leaves that are de-stemmed, dried, and stone-ground into a fine powder. Unlike traditional tea, where the leaves are steeped and discarded, you consume the entire leaf — meaning you also get the full hit of antioxidants, amino acids, and nutrients.
A matcha latte is smooth, earthy, and slightly grassy, with a gentle, clean energy that keeps you focused without the jitters.
What Is Coffee?
Coffee is brewed from roasted beans and has been fueling mornings for centuries. Whether you like it as a flat white, Americano, or iced latte, coffee delivers a rich, robust flavour and a fast-hitting energy boost. It’s bold, aromatic, and part of a ritual many can’t imagine life without.
A flat white, for instance, gives you that satisfying espresso base mellowed with velvety milk — a staple in Irish cafés.
Caffeine Comparison: Fast Kick vs. Slow Burn
- Matcha: ~30–70 mg of caffeine per serving
- Coffee: ~80–120 mg (or more)
Matcha contains L-theanine, which moderates the effects of caffeine and creates a calm, focused alertness. Coffee hits faster and harder — which is great when you need a jolt, but can also lead to a crash.
Health Benefits
Taste and Ritual
Matcha has a grassy, creamy profile — often enjoyed hot or iced. Whisking it is a peaceful, almost meditative process. Coffee is bolder and more intense, with roasted, chocolatey, or fruity notes depending on the bean and roast.
So Which Should You Choose?
- Want a slow-release, focused energy boost? Try matcha.
- Need a strong wake-up call to start your day? Coffee might be your best bet.
Or… why not both? At Bodega Café, we often kick off with coffee and wind down with a matcha for that perfect afternoon pick-me-up.
Now Serving Matcha at Bodega Café
Hot or iced, our new matcha lattes are the best of both worlds — energising, antioxidant-rich, and absolutely delicious.