Walk into almost any cafe in Kuala Lumpur today, and there’s a good chance the matcha in your latte comes from Niko Neko. But it wasn’t always this way. A decade ago, matcha was niche, unfamiliar, often overshadowed by coffee culture. That’s when Niko Neko stepped in. Not chasing a trend, but creating one.

FROM A SMALL STUDIO TO A CULT BRAND

Founded in 2015, Niko Neko started as a quiet matcha studio with a clear mission: to make matcha modern, approachable, and part of everyday life. They stripped away the intimidation of traditional tea ceremonies and reintroduced matcha through a minimalist lens: sleek design, clean packaging, and exceptional quality sourced from Japan. Their focus on both form and flavour turned matcha from a ritual into a lifestyle.

When a cafe proudly notes “We use Niko Neko powder”, it says something. You already know the taste. Smooth, rich, deeply satisfying. It’s a name that instantly elevates what’s in your cup.

BEHIND THE GREEN WAVE

Niko Neko’s influence now runs deep through Malaysia’s cafe scene. Their blends appear in drinks and desserts across the Klang Valley. From minimalist cafes to bakeries, including ONO, which was listed in The World’s 100 Best Coffee Shops 2026.

For those who’d rather whisk their own at home, Niko Neko’s powders and tools are just a click away, keeping the ritual of matcha both premium and personal.

MORE THAN MATCHA

Collaboration has been at the heart of Niko Neko’s growth. They’ve teamed up with bakeries, gelato shops, lifestyle stores, and more letting others put their own spin on matcha while keeping the brand’s signature style intact.

But their impact goes beyond products. Niko Neko continues to educate and inspire a new generation of matcha enthusiasts. A standout moment was their collaboration with Tango Tanimura, a 20th-generation chasen (bamboo whisk) master from Japan, who made his first Southeast Asian appearance through their workshop series in Malaysia.

WHY IS NIKO NEKO ONE OF MALAYSIA'S MOST RECOGNISED HOMEGROWN MATCHA BRANDS?

Because they didn’t just sell tea, they made matcha something to live, share, and enjoy.

With five physical stores and countless cafe collaborations, Niko Neko has become part of Malaysia’s daily rhythm. The next time you order a matcha latte in KL, chances are, you’re tasting a little piece of their story.

Find out more about Niko Neko
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