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Nana's Green Tea MelbourneB-Worth Trying
165A Bourke St, Melbourne VIC 3000, Australia
· Cafe
· 4.5/5 Google (1116 reviews)
Takeout
Modern Japanese dessert cafe with standout matcha and hojicha drinks and parfaits; great for sweet cravings, but expect crowds and occasional long waits; savory bowls are available.
Why it gets a B- for overall quality
Nana's Green Tea Melbourne delivers exceptional matcha and hojicha quality with thoughtful seasonal offerings that earn loyal repeat visits. However, inconsistent execution during peak hours—including long waits, occasional order mix-ups, and variable takeaway cake quality—prevents it from reaching higher distinction. The serene Japanese tea house aesthetic and CBD convenience appeal to matcha enthusiasts, but operational strain during busy times limits its standing as a premier destination.
Restaurant Summary
In the heart of the CBD, this modern tea house feels calm and inviting when it is not swamped by weekend crowds. Reviewers rave that the matcha tastes clean and true, with one noting, "the parfait layers were beautiful and balanced." Ordering is via QR and staff run items to tables, which keeps things easy and convenient off-peak, though peak times can stretch patience. The cooking centers on Japanese cafe comfort: rich matcha and roasted hojicha drinks, layered parfaits with azuki and mochi, plus light savory bowls. It is elevated traditional rather than showy, with seasonal twists like pineapple matcha that fans embrace. Quality ingredients and restrained sweetness win loyalists, though a few found cakes inconsistent for takeaway and waits long at rush hours. Families do well here thanks to approachable sweets like soft serve, roll cakes, and simple rice bowls. There is no kids menu, but familiar textures and mild flavors suit many children. If a child dislikes tea flavors, opt for vanilla soft serve, chicken soboro don, or tofu salad instead of bolder matcha or sesame profiles.
At a Glance
- Standout matcha and hojicha quality with balanced sweetness
- Seasonal parfaits are visually striking and satisfying
- Long waits and order mix-ups during peak hours
- Takeaway cakes sometimes do not match display quality
- A few reports of stomach upset after certain drinks
What Sets It Apart
- Japanese matcha-focused dessert bar
- Seasonal parfait innovations
- Hybrid QR table service
What People Love
- Rich, clean matcha flavor without cloying sweetness
- Layered parfaits with chewy mochi and azuki
- Serene Japanese-inspired design
- Easy QR ordering and quick service off-peak
- Seasonal specialties worth returning for
Points of Concern
- Waits of 30–60 minutes at peak are common for drinks and parfaits
- Occasional service disorganization: missed items and unclear table running
- Takeaway roll cakes reported as dry or not like display on multiple occasions
- Isolated illness reports after drinks; monitor if sensitive
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleHybrid
Average CostA$28–42 per person
ReservationsNot required
What to Order
- For lighter sweetness choose straight Japanese teas (A$6.5)
- For a full set: Sukiyaki Beef Don + Matcha Latte + Warabimochi (about A$35–40)
- Kids: vanilla soft serve or chicken soboro don
Perfect For
- Post-dinner dessert run in the CBD
- Matcha and hojicha enthusiasts
- Casual afternoon catch-ups
- Solo treat with a book
Location Insights
Area: Central CBD strip with heavy foot traffic, popular for quick bites, desserts, and after-work meetups.
Safety: Busy, well-lit city core; occasional construction and crowding but generally safe with strong foot traffic.
Nearby: Near tram corridors, shopping lanes, offices, and theaters; ideal for dessert after nearby dining.
MelbourneMelbourne's CBD is characterized by a diverse dining scene ranging from casual cafes and dessert shops to high-end restaurants. The area attracts a wide demographic including locals and visitors seeking quick bites, international cuisine, and trendy dining experiences in a fast-paced urban setting.
Bourke Street MallBourke Street Mall is a pedestrian shopping precinct known for its retail outlets, street performers, and food vendors. It offers many casual dining options and cafes catering to shoppers and workers looking for convenient meals and refreshments.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday11:30–22:00
Tuesday11:30–22:00
Wednesday11:30–22:00
Thursday11:30–22:00
Friday11:30–23:00
Saturday11:30–23:00
Sunday11:30–22:00
Available: Takeout
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