London has officially entered its Korean matcha era, and Tokkia is making sure the movement comes with plenty of personality.
The contemporary café, whose name translates roughly to “hey bunny” in Korean, has opened two London locations—one in Covent Garden at 3 Monmouth Street and another in Soho at 40 Berwick Street. The concept comes from founder Sooji Im, who wanted to introduce more people to Korean tea culture while capturing the warmth and playfulness of Korean cafés.
And Tokkia is not your standard matcha café.
The drinks menu focuses on Korean matcha and hojicha, whisked to order rather than pumped out by an espresso machine. Tokkia sources tea from small farms in Korea, with a flavor profile that can be nuttier and toastier than the bright, umami-heavy matcha many customers associate with Japan.
Then there is the food.
Tokkia serves sogeum-bbang, Korean salt bread that is buttery, slightly salty and wonderfully addictive. Seasonal versions have included matcha cream-filled bread and hojicha variations with chocolate glaze. There are also traditional Korean treats such as injeolmi rice cakes, depending on the location and menu.
The cafés themselves are just as considered. Designed around the idea of founder Im’s pet bunny, Hazelnut, the interiors use earthy colors, terrazzo and playful details inspired by a rabbit burrow. The Covent Garden location even features a dramatic ceiling installation of dried flowers.
For anyone searching for the best matcha in London, Korean cafés in London, Soho cafés or Covent Garden restaurants, Tokkia is one to put on the radar.
Come for the matcha.
Stay for the salt bread.
And don’t be surprised if the bunny wins you over.
