Tucked away in a historic shopfront by the river, Matcha Time Cafe has been giving visitors to Ellicott City a true taste of Japan in Maryland for ten years. This small family-owned business packs tons of creative flavor into its charming dining room and is the perfect spot to spend a summer afternoon. Whether you’re looking for a bowl of rich tonkatsu ramen or you’re interested in their extensive list of teas, Matcha Time Cafe is sure to satisfy!
The list of teas as long as a pheasant’s tail and a menu featuring dozens of home-cooked Japanese staples make Matcha Time Cafe the perfect place to spend an afternoon.
The indoor dining area is a delightfully quiet room to get some work done or enjoy a meal. There’s outdoor seating as well if you prefer to take your tea with some fresh air.
Nothing says “Japanese summer” like unagi-don - grilled freshwater eel dripping in a sweet-and-savory sauce. We recommend the sakura sencha - iced cherry blossom green tea - to put a delicate finish on the meal.
The owners of the cafe also maintain a gorgeous gift shop packed with beautiful Japanese items, from traditional tea ware to collectibles and everything in between. It’s just a short walk down Main Street from the cafe.
The gift shop is one of the only places you can find real daruma dolls. These are Zen good-luck talismans. Just set a goal, fill in one eye, and they will bring you good luck for a year! You fill in the second eye once your goal has been achieved.
Hand-made chopsticks, the latest range of collectible figurines, or even a wide variety of classic Japanese snacks - you’ll find them all on the shelves of Matcha Time.
As a staple of the Ellicott City community for almost ten years, Matcha Time Cafe and Gift Shop has truly brought an irreplaceable taste of Japan to Maryland.
You’ll never lack flavorful adventures with so many hidden gems like Matcha Time scattered throughout our state. Check out our list of 10 hole-in-the-wall restaurants as well if you’re craving more!
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