Located at 923 Race St in Philadelphia, Matcha Cafe Maiko is a treasure for matcha enthusiasts and dessert lovers alike. This cafe shines with its rich and creative offerings, particularly the celebrated matcha-ube swirl sundae, praised for its smooth and creamy texture, even though some patrons noted a slight imbalance in ube flavor. The atmosphere is inviting and distinctly Japanese, making it an ideal spot to unwind.
Customers rave about the Maiko Special and Uji Kintoki Shaved Ice, showcasing the cafe's commitment to high-quality matcha and innovative desserts. While some found the banana pudding matcha lacking in banana flavor, others enjoyed the bright balance of tastes in their lattes.
The warm and professional service adds to the overall experience, making guests feel welcomed. With a variety of options, including the impressive hot Yuzu honey, there is something for everyone. Despite being slightly pricey, visitors agree that the fresh and delightful flavors make it worth the splurge. It’s definitely a spot to revisit—a haven for matcha lovers wanting a taste of Japan in a cozy setting.
Amenities and More
Service options
Offers delivery
Offers takeaway
Serves dine-in
Highlights
Serves great dessert
Has great tea selection
Popular for
Good for solo dining
Offerings
Quick bite
Dining options
Serves dinner
Serves dessert
Has seating
No table service
Amenities
Has gender-neutral toilets
Has toilet
Has Wi-Fi
Free Wi-Fi
Atmosphere
Casual
Cosy
Trendy
Crowd
Family friendly
Popular with tourists
Popular with university students
Planning
Doesn't accept reservations
Payments
Accepts credit cards
Accepts debit cards
Credit cards
Children
Good for kids
Parking
Paid parking lot
Paid street parking
Difficult to find a space
Photos
Reviews For Matcha Cafe Maiko
Starry Yang
Jun 19,2025
We ordered a matcha-ube swirl sundae, and to say the least, it was amazing. The matcha was so rich and the ube complemented it perfectly, overall, the ice cream wasn’t too sweet, but was also smooth and creamy. IMO, the swirl had too much ube, which slightly overpowered the matcha flavor, but nonetheless both flavors were delicious. I wasn’t sure what I felt the strawberry jam on the soft serve, but it certainly wasn’t terrible. The service was quick and there were many options between creative matcha desserts and drinks. The atmosphere was also simple and japanese themed. 10/10
Rachel Chen
Jun 14,2025
I didn't try the matcha, my friend did but she said it was good! I had a hot Yuzu honey, it wasn't too sweet which I loved, and it felt really nice drinking in the windy weather. The atmosphere was cozy, it smelled really clean and the lights weren't too bright. Overall I would go again!!
milehi dad
Jun 14,2025
Maiko Special & Uji Kintoki Shaved Ice were amazing. Unfortunately, there isn't one in the state where we live, but it seems to be in 15 states across the US, so I would like to visit if I ever visit a state where they have one. July 2022.
Alex Auletto
May 21,2025
Good quality matcha, lattes had a good balance of flavor and not too sweet, however, the banana pudding matcha had no banana flavor at all and tasted like a normal matcha latte. The ice cream was also not too sweet but the matcha flavor wasn’t over powering. I do wish the strawberry ice cream had more strawberries or a strawberry flavor. The cafe was small but comfortable and the workers were very nice.
RITA LIN
Apr 18,2025
This was our very first time here. We decided to try out this new establishment after dinner for dessert. It is a bit pricey but everything taste fresh and delicious. Soft serve ube and matcha twist is amazing . Staff were very professional and friendly.
sassy
Apr 17,2025
I love matcha maiko the seasonal flavors always hit and makes me sad that they aren’t around for longer. the soft serves always hit the spot even in chilly weather. all the employees i have talked to were so nice and helpful! the space is a bit small but i dont mind getting ice cream and taking a stroll around chinatown.
Isabella Olaguera
Apr 13,2025
THE BEST matcha & ube soft serve ice cream I have EVER HAD! I added the strawberry preserves and chestnut which were also fantastic. My only complaint is that the counter staff refused to give me tap water in a cup (I had no bottle). I needed to take necessary medication and forgot my water. I have never encountered a business that did not give me a cup of water when asked for the purpose of taking medication, and I think that should really be changed.
Katie
Mar 30,2025
I ordered a strawberry and matcha. This drink had a good balance of both flavors. I can’t wait to try the ice cream once the we gets warmer.
Reviews For Matcha Cafe Maiko