Student Ambassador Amisha Wong Rajoo from Malaysia has found a unique way to stay connected to home while embracing her new life in Ireland — through her love of matcha. In this blog, she takes us on a personal journey across the country, sharing her favourite spots to enjoy a matcha moment, from cosy cafés to buzzy city stops.
Four months ago, I left my entire life behind in Malaysia — my family, my loved ones, and, heartbreakingly, the incredible selection of matcha back home. Matcha has always been my little sanctuary, so the thought of being without it was daunting.
But instead of dwelling on what I’d left behind, I decided to embark on a matcha adventure across Ireland while pursuing my studies here. Here are some of my favourite spots so far — perfect for any matcha enthusiast exploring the Emerald Isle!
Clement & Pekoe, Dublin
Nestled on South William Street, this café was a delightful discovery during a chilly day out with a friend. Their hot matcha latte struck the perfect balance — not too sweet, not too bitter. The artistry in the latte was an added bonus, and the pastries we tried were top-notch. The café can get a bit crowded during peak hours, so plan your visit accordingly!
Waterlilies, Carlow
Every visit to Carlow to see my sister is incomplete without stopping at Waterlilies. This cosy café is a gem! Whether you prefer your matcha hot or iced, it never disappoints. The warm, inviting atmosphere makes it an experience rather than just a stop. Highly recommended!
The Matcha Bar, Dublin
This was the first café I visited when I arrived in Ireland, and it came with high expectations thanks to all the TikTok hype. While it didn’t quite live up to the buzz for me, it’s still a solid choice for matcha lovers in Dublin. Definitely worth checking out at least once!
Espresso 44, Galway 
During my reading week, I visited Galway with friends and made it my mission to try matcha in this charming city. Espresso 44, one of three locations offering award-winning Fixx coffee, was a pleasant surprise! The matcha was impressive, and the pastries looked absolutely divine — don’t miss out!
Copper + Straw, Dublin
I stopped by Copper + Straw before heading to training for the Student Ambassador Programme, and it was exactly the morning pick-me-up I needed. Their matcha was smooth and invigorating, and the croissant I paired it with was perfection. They have two locations in Dublin — Arran Quay and Aston Quay — so be sure to give them a visit.
This is just the beginning of my matcha journey in Ireland, and I can’t wait to discover more hidden gems. If you’re a fellow matcha enthusiast, these spots are a great place to start. Stay tuned for more recommendations as my quest continues!
Amisha Wong Rajoo is studying at SETU