dubai: While Matcha has enjoyed a long reign as the “Green Queen” of Dubai’s cafés, 2026 marks the official takeover of its toasted, earthier cousin: Hojicha. From the minimalist boutiques of Jumeirah to the high-end lounges of DIFC, the city’s palette has shifted toward the cozy, nutty, and caramel-like notes of roasted green tea.
Here is why Hojicha has become the “it-drink” of the year and where you can find the best versions in the city.
1. The “Low-Caffeine” Appeal for the Biohacking Crowd
As Dubai’s wellness community pivots toward better sleep hygiene and “adrenal health,” Hojicha is the perfect solution.
- The Science: Unlike Matcha, Hojicha is roasted at high temperatures, which naturally lowers its caffeine content.1
- The 2026 Shift: Residents are swapping their 4:00 PM coffee or Matcha for a Hojicha Latte, allowing them to enjoy a “coffee-like” roasted flavor without the late-night jitters or “caffeine crash.”
2. The Perfect “Coffee Alternative”
For many, Matcha can be too “grassy” or “seaweed-like.”2 Hojicha, however, tastes like a cross between roasted nuts, toasted rice, and cocoa.
- The “Karak” Connection: Many long-time Dubai residents find Hojicha’s deep, smoky profile more reminiscent of the spiced richness of Karak tea, making it a more familiar and comforting flavor profile than the bright, vegetal taste of Matcha.
3. The “Esthetic” Evolution: From Neon Green to Moody Brown
In 2026, the “Clean Girl” and “Minimalist” social media aesthetics have favored the muted, sepia tones of Hojicha.
- The Visuals: The rich chocolatey-brown hues of a layered Hojicha latte—especially when paired with oat or pistachio milk—look stunning in the natural light of Jumeirah’s villa cafés. It feels more “grounded” and “organic.”
The Hojicha “Top 5” List for 2026
| Café | The Must-Try Drink | The Vibe |
| Paus; (Al Wasl) | Iced Hojicha & Vanilla Cold Foam | Ultimate wellness & recovery. |
| Netu (Jumeirah) | Dirty Hojicha (with a shot of Espresso) | For the serious caffeine lovers. |
| Alchemy (Al Wasl) | Ceremonial Grade Hojicha Latte | Minimalist, high-end, and pure. |
| Nightjar (Al Quoz) | Nitro Hojicha on Tap | Creamy, fizzy, and refreshing. |
| The Edit (Alserkal) | Hojicha & Rose Infusion | Floral, artistic, and unique. |
4. Hojicha in the Kitchen: Beyond the Latte
The trend isn’t limited to drinks. In 2026, Dubai’s top pastry chefs are using Hojicha powder as a key ingredient:
- Hojicha Soft Serve: Finding a massive audience at spots like Salt and Parker’s.
- Hojicha Tiramisu: A smoky twist on the classic Italian dessert that is appearing on menus across DIFC.
- Hojicha San Sebastian Cheesecake: Combining the viral cheesecake trend with the smoky depth of roasted tea.
5. Sustainable Sourcing
Dubai’s “Slow Fashion” and “Green Living” movements have extended to tea. Most top-tier cafés in 2026 source their Hojicha directly from heritage farms in Uji, Japan, focusing on “Single Estate” varieties that guarantee better pay for farmers and higher quality for consumers.
Conclusion
If 2024 was the year of the Matcha whisk, 2026 is the year of the Hojicha roast. It reflects a city that is becoming more mindful, more relaxed, and more interested in deep, complex flavors over bright, flashy colors. Whether you’re a biohacker looking for a low-caffeine boost or a foodie hunting for the next viral dessert, Hojicha is the flavor of the future.
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Next Step for You
Would you like me to find a recipe for a “Hojicha Oat Latte” you can make at home, or should I locate the nearest café to you that serves “Nitro Hojicha” on tap?