Published March 2, 2026
BY RUBY IRANMANESH and OLIVIA FORT
Iced matcha lattes are a popular staple for CHS students, but often served in small cups despite the higher cost. Photo by RUBY IRANMANESH
Alta’s matcha is balanced. Not too grassy, not too sweet. It’s a reliable option for students who find themselves downtown in Monterey after school. The flavor is mild for matcha beginners, and they use an organic brand. The location is absolutely adorable, set in the historic Cooper Molera Adobe. The total comes out to $5.80 for 12 ounces.
Bookworks
Bookworks, a cafe and bookstore in Pacific Grove, offers light and refreshing iced matcha, as well as a comfy, welcoming environment. Photo by RUBY IRANMANESH
Located on Lighthouse Avenue in Pacific Grove, this unique cafe—half bookstore, half coffee shop—serves a classic iced matcha latte sweetened with natural honey. For those who don’t prefer creamier matcha, Bookworks’ matcha is a great option, containing a light texture while still preserving its rich flavor. Priced at $7, this iced drink served in an unusually small cup may not be an everyday purchase for a student, but on a chilly morning, Bookworks’ warm and cozy vibes make it worth the visit. Plus, students can browse the bookstore while they wait for their drink!
Mad Dogs & Englishmen
The standout. Mad Dogs & Englishmen’s specialty “Pink Mist Matcha” costs $8 and uses ceremonial‑grade matcha. Even with regular milk, the drink is smooth, vibrant and noticeably higher quality. The flavor is rich, and the dried rose petals give it its signature pink look. For students willing to splurge a little, this one is worth it.
Carmel Belle
Carmel Belle is already a local favorite for CHS students because of their diverse food options, but who knew their matcha was also a hit? Coming out at $5-6, with an additional $1 for alternative milk, Carmel Belle’s iced matcha is a creamy smooth drink. Finding matcha that isn’t too bitter yet not entirely sweet can be difficult, but this drink completely knocks it out of the park with a perfect balance. Sweetened with either natural honey or vanilla, it still manages to maintain its organic matcha flavor. Overall, Carmel Belle’s matcha is definitely worth the trip—and the cost—for a student going off-campus for lunch.
Kafe Toribashi
Kafe Toribashi’s strawberry matcha leans sweet and fun, built on organic matcha and blended with strawberry milk. At $8.75 for 16 ounces, it may be a bit pricier than some downtown options, but the flavor is bright and genuinely enjoyable, making up for the price. The strawberry softens the matcha without drowning the flavor, making it an easy pick for people who want something sweeter. The ocean view from the Fisherman’s Wharf adds to the appeal, turning it into more of an experience than just a drink.
