Matcha & Creme

I need to tell you about Matcha & Creme, because this place is doing something really special in Dallas and it deserves way more attention.

What It Is

Tucked into a suite on North Central Expressway in the Preston Hollow area, Matcha & Creme is a boutique matcha bar that blends Japanese tea tradition with contemporary cafe culture. The vibe is calm, elevated, intentional — the kind of place where every drink feels like it was made specifically for you, not yanked off an assembly line.

And yes, it's Muslim-owned. Which, if you're reading this blog, probably matters to you. It matters to me too.

The Drinks

Let's start with the star: the Cardamom Matcha Latte ($7.00). If you come from a culture where cardamom is in everything — the chai, the coffee, the desserts — this drink is going to hit you somewhere deep. It's creamy, earthy, and warmly spiced in a way that feels like home but also completely new. I can't recommend it enough.

The Jasmine Matcha Cloud ($7.00) is another standout — light, floral, and almost ethereal. If you're the type who finds regular matcha too grassy, this is your gateway.

For the adventurous, the Pink Coconut Matcha Cloud ($9.00) is the most photogenic drink on the menu. It's layered, gorgeous, and tastes like a tropical vacation. Your Instagram will thank you.

If matcha isn't your thing (no judgment), they've got a solid espresso lineup too. The Tiramisu Latte ($7.50) and the Cookie Butter Latte ($7.50) are both indulgent in the best way. And at $2.50 for a drip coffee, you can keep it simple without breaking the bank.

The Food

The menu is focused — which I respect. They do crofles (croissant-waffles) in Cookie Butter and Strawberry, both $5.00. They're warm, crispy, and the perfect companion to a matcha latte. Don't overthink it, just add one to your order.

Why This Matters

Here's the thing: if you've been looking for a Starbucks alternative — whether for BDS reasons, or just because you want your money going somewhere better — Matcha & Creme is the answer. The drinks are objectively better. The prices are comparable. The atmosphere is leagues ahead of any chain. And your dollars are supporting a small, Muslim-owned business in your own city.

That Cardamom Matcha Latte? Starbucks could never.

The Practical Stuff

The cafe is in a strip along North Central Expressway — easy to get to from anywhere in North Dallas. Parking is right in front. They're open daily starting at 7 AM, so it works for your morning commute. They're also on Uber Eats and Postmates if you want delivery, but honestly, this is a place worth visiting in person.

Follow them on Instagram at @matchaandcreme — their drink photos are genuinely beautiful and they post seasonal specials regularly.

Who Should Go

Anyone who loves matcha (obviously), anyone looking for a cozy independent cafe, anyone who wants a Starbucks alternative that's actually better than Starbucks, and anyone in the DFW Muslim community who wants to support their own. Bring a friend, bring a laptop, bring your journal — this is a great place to just be.