Matcha: powdered green tea leaves dissolved in hot water, has flooded the algorithm of many on social media as well as their daily lives. Matcha can be paired with an abundance of syrups, milks, foams, or even juices, acting as not only a refresher but also a comfort, such as many other drinks like coffee. The ever-growing popularity of matcha has also reached the halls of MHS, as many stream to Dunkin or Starbucks to grab their order of matcha. Rather than these next-door neighbors, many students and even teachers find themselves gravitating towards Boston to satisfy their cravings.
Blank Street Coffee is often the first option for many due to its popularity on social media platforms, such as Diego Barrero, who heard about the shop from these platforms. Blank Street Coffee has various locations in New York, Manchester, London, Washington D.C., Birmingham, Edinburgh, and, of course, Boston. There are seven locations throughout Boston.
The one most people go to, however, is located beside lively roads at 120 Causeway St, right below TD Garden. To arrive there, you should take the Orange Line and get off at North Station. As soon as you walk out, your eyes will be drawn to the large TD Garden sign, and soon the Blank Street Coffee sign will grasp your attention.
Upon entering, its small vicinity of five tables and wall benches could be cozy to some, but due to the popularity of the store, it can easily become overcrowded. Sophomore Rosalyn Ruan described the atmosphere as “claustrophobic” and “not a super great environment,” as she visited when it was hot out and crowded. Yet, many visitors, such as History teacher Courtney Braz, who has visited various Blank Street Coffee locations, just get their “drink and head out.” Braz elaborated, stating that “the atmosphere of the shops is not the most engaging to sit and spend time.”
Blank Street Coffee provides a variety of items, not just matcha, such as coffees, lattes, teas, hot chocolate, and all-day breakfast items such as bagels, wraps, and sandwiches. Each of these items ranges from $4-$8.
Their unique matcha menu consists of White Chocolate Matcha: white chocolate mixed with oat milk and ceremonial matcha, Blueberry Matcha: housemade blueberry and vanilla syrup mixed with oat milk and ceremonial matcha, and Daydream Matcha: housemade vanilla bean, honey, and cinnamon syrup mixed with oat milk and ceremonial matcha.
Along with two spring specials, Strawberry Shortcake Matcha: housemade strawberry shortcake syrup and strawberry jam mixed with oat milk and ceremonial matcha, and the PB&J Matcha: housemade PB&J syrup, cashew butter, and strawberry jam mixed with oat milk and ceremonial matcha.
Out of the two spring specials, the Strawberry Shortcake Matcha has been the most popular both on social media and online. “I got the Strawberry Shortcake Matcha, my expectations weren’t super high because popular places like this aren’t always good and are overhyped, but the drink was pretty good! It really tasted like a cake and wasn’t overly sweet,” exclaimed Ruan.
Barrero also tried the Strawberry Shortcake Matcha, adding that he “loved the strawberry element because it complemented the drink.” Based on appearance alone, the Strawberry Shortcake Matcha brings a pop of color to the green drink, with a layer of thick strawberry jam, thus attracting customers. Its sweet, poundcake-like taste is perfect for those who don’t enjoy the original bitter taste of matcha!
Within the original menu, Braz tried the Blueberry Matcha, which met her expectations so much that she has recommended the drink to all of her friends, and some students, such as me. “The blueberry is sweet but not too sweet, and the matcha is earthy but not overwhelmingly so,” described Braz.
While at Blank Street Coffee, sophomore Sofia Vargas tried the White Chocolate Matcha and the Daydream Matcha. “People who enjoy authentic chocolate should try the White Chocolate Matcha since it tastes very natural when mixed with the matcha. While the Daydream Matcha is perfect for fall, it has very strong hints of chai and cinnamon, which is very enjoyable,” expressed Vargas.
These various unique drinks form the identity of Blank Street Coffee. Overall, if you’re out in Boston and are looking to satisfy your craving for authentic matcha, Blank Street Coffee is the place for you.
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