Japan Nakama

Founder of Good Mood Matcha, Max Cheong, has been hooked on matcha’s earthiness and unique umami flavours for as long as he can remember. Inspired by the health benefits of daily matcha and armed with nothing but a backpack and a good mood, Max set out on a mission to find the tastiest tea leaves.

His search took him to Japan, the home of matcha, where he visited tea farms, sampled matcha and toured factories. In the spring of 2017, he found a small, family run tea farm in Uji, Kyoto – the oldest, and the best, tea growing region in Japan. In matcha production, it’s the soil, climate, geography and altitude that contribute towards the production of high-quality leaves.

“Throughout his search, Max had always placed emphasis on the importance of finding an independent farm”

Throughout his search, Max had always placed emphasis on the importance of finding an independent farm and this seventh-generation family of tea growers were a perfect match. He now works closely with them to produce exclusive Good Mood blends of ceremonial grade matcha.

Whilst matcha is conventionally harvested three times a year throughout Japan, this isn’t the case for Good Mood Matcha. Only the tips of the youngest leaves from the first Spring harvest known as Ichiban-cha, are used. Irst flush leaves are selected for their colour, taste, fragrance and nutritional elements. Whilst this might not mean much to most, it makes a significant difference taste wise.

Once harvested, the fresh leaves are steamed, gently cooled and then scattered evenly over a flat surface to dry completely. A thorough evaluation process takes place to ensure quality.

After this process is complete, the leaves are known as Tencha and are renowned for their distinct fragrance and flavour. The final step in the process is traditionally stone-milling the leaves into a fine powder before reaching Good Mood HQ. Having always enjoyed sharing matcha with friends and family, founder Max is excited to begin sharing his move for the green super powder with everyone.

With an emphasis on the health properties of matcha, Good Mood ensures minimal processing, in addition to their matcha being organic, suitable for vegans and naturally gluten and sugar-free.

Currently, Good Mood Matcha is available at Spitalfields Market every Friday, Saturday and Sunday; though owner Max and his team have big plans for making it more widely available.