Walking through Orchard during peak hours, I decided to stop by Hvala at Somerset for a break from the usual crowd. The location is super convenient, tucked inside 111 Somerset, and the space immediately felt like a tranquil escape. After several visits, I can confidently say this is one of the better matcha spots around. The calm atmosphere and the authentic matcha offerings made me appreciate the place even more.
What really stood out to me was how much care goes into each cup. The staff take their time to prepare matcha fresh to order, and I enjoyed learning about the different tea grades and origins when I asked. It’s not your typical sweetened matcha latte; this place serves real, rich matcha with a perfect balance of bitter and sweet. Whether I was sipping a sakura matcha latte or savoring a matcha kaya toast with two slabs of butter, every bite and sip felt thoughtfully crafted to satisfy both matcha lovers and newcomers alike.
A Japanese Tea House in 111 Somerset That Takes Its Time
When I first stepped into Hvala at Somerset, I immediately noticed it wasn’t just another trendy café. It felt more like a genuine Japanese tea house, where the staff took their time to prepare each matcha order with care and shared insights about the tea’s grades and origins when I showed interest. The pace was refreshingly slower compared to other busy spots in Orchard, allowing me to truly appreciate the authentic matcha they served far from the overly sweetened versions I was used to. Each visit deepened my appreciation for their methodical approach and the real, rich flavors that made every sip special.
Getting to Hvala was a breeze thanks to its convenient location inside 313@Somerset, just a short walk from Somerset MRT. I loved how the mostly indoor route kept me comfortable regardless of the weather, making it easy to escape the hustle and bustle of Orchard Road. Whether I came by train, bus, or on foot from nearby Orchard MRT, the sheltered mall setting provided a peaceful refuge where I could relax and enjoy my tea without the usual city noise and crowds.
Explore more cafes in Somerset by diving into this comprehensive guide that highlights the best spots for your next coffee adventure here.
The Matcha Drinks Worth Ordering
During my visits to Hvala Somerset, several matcha drinks stood out and are definitely worth ordering. The Tsuki Matcha Latte is a favorite for its bright, refreshing flavor balancing bitterness and sweetness. For a richer option, the ceremonial-grade Hana Matcha offers a creamy texture with deep umami notes. The Sakura Matcha Latte combines subtle floral sweetness with earthy matcha bitterness, creating a comforting and unique harmony. Customizable milk choices like soy and oat milk cater to different preferences.
I love how each cup is prepared with care, complementing the natural light and calm ambiance of the café, making it a peaceful place to enjoy your drink. Whether you’re a matcha purist or exploring sweet options, Hvala’s menu offers a delicious variety that invites you to savor every moment.
Varieties and Bestsellers at Hvala Somerset
During my visits to Hvala Somerset, I had the chance to try a variety of matcha drinks and desserts that truly showcase their expertise. The Tsuki Matcha Latte quickly became a favorite, thanks to its bright and refreshing flavor that perfectly balances bitterness with subtle sweetness. I also indulged in the ceremonial-grade Hana Matcha, which offered a rich, creamy texture with deep umami notes that only true matcha enthusiasts can appreciate. Another standout was the Sakura Matcha Latte, a delightful blend of floral sweetness and earthy matcha bitterness that created a comforting and unique taste experience.
Delightful Desserts That Complement Every Sip
One of the highlights of my visits to Hvala Somerset has been their impressive selection of desserts, which perfectly complement the rich matcha and coffee offerings. I found myself especially drawn to their soft, vegan-friendly pastries and the unique warabi mochi, a chewy, delicate Japanese sweet that pairs beautifully with a cup of hojicha or ceremonial-grade matcha. The waffles here are another treat, topped with layers of matcha gelato or seasonal fruit, making each bite a harmonious blend of texture and flavor.
I also appreciated how the desserts are thoughtfully crafted with quality ingredients, reflecting the same care as their teas. Whether it’s a light yuzu cake or a decadent matcha-infused brownie, each dish felt like a small celebration of Japanese-inspired flavors. Sitting in the sunlit room, savoring these sweets alongside a carefully prepared matcha latte, made the experience feel like a true moment of indulgence. For anyone who loves to eat something soft and sweet with their tea or coffee, Hvala’s dessert menu is definitely worth exploring.
A Great Cafe Experience Beyond Just Matcha
Hvala Somerset is more than just a tea house; it offers a well-rounded café experience with a variety of matcha drinks alongside light meals like soft boiled eggs that perfectly complement the tea selection. The minimalist Japanese-inspired interior creates a peaceful ambiance filled with natural sunlight, making it an inviting spot for a casual meal or relaxing break. Conveniently located near Somerset MRT, the café features friendly staff who assist with menu choices and maintain reasonable wait times, enhancing the overall visit.
Having built a strong reputation among Singapore’s café lovers over several years, Hvala stays connected with fans through social media updates on new offerings and events. Whether you’re seeking a calm vibe or eager to try something new, Hvala Somerset is a welcoming place to unwind and savor quality food and tea, making it a must-visit for those near Somerset MRT looking for an authentic and thoughtful matcha café experience.
Conclusion: Why I Keep Coming Back to Hvala Somerset
After spending many afternoons at Hvala Somerset, I can honestly say it’s become my go-to spot whenever I want to slow down and enjoy a genuine matcha experience. The kind of care they put into every cup and dessert makes you feel like you’re not just drinking tea, but truly appreciating a craft. I often find myself sitting by the sunlit window, watching the world pass by while savoring a sakura matcha latte or a soft vegan waffle topped with matcha gelato. It’s a quiet kind of joy that I miss in the busy city hustle.
Thankfully, Hvala Somerset is easy to reach and always welcoming, with a kind staff who help you choose the perfect drink or dessert to suit your mood. Whether you’re already a matcha lover or just curious to try something new, this outlet offers a lot to explore and enjoy. For me, it’s more than just a café, it’s a little retreat where tradition meets modern comfort, and where every visit feels like a small celebration of good taste and calm moments. If you’re ever near Somerset MRT, I highly recommend dropping by and letting yourself experience the thoughtful, authentic charm of Hvala.
Discover more charming restaurants and cafes conveniently located near MRT stations by exploring our extensive MRT Foodie Guide, perfect for fulfilling all your cravings.
