Amid the bustling crowds of Serramonte Mall lies Matcha Ren, a small, modern, and aesthetic kiosk that brings an inviting atmosphere to the shopping center. 

Matcha Ren joined Serramonte on Sept. 12 with a grandiose opening that offered drinks for 50 percent off, creating a lengthy line wrapping around each wing of the mall. 

An eye-catching green color the kiosk, elevating one’s desire for a perfect matcha experience. A display of matcha treats sits inside a clear, glass case, and a full menu is featured on the back wall. 

The menu includes matcha lattes, teas, shakes, soft serve, mochi crêpes, mochi ice cream, mochi covered fruit, and matcha Mont Blancs, a French delicacy built from layers of spongecake, whipped cream, and a chestnut puree that is swapped with spaghetti-like strands of matcha paste.

Overwhelmed by the number of options, I decided to get the Strawberry Matcha Mont Blanc for $10 and the Matcha Americano for $4.75. After placing my order, I moved to the pickup counter, where the workers were highly focused, whipping up a whirlwind of matcha delights. 

Each matcha drink was crafted in the traditional Japanese style: mixing matcha powder and hot water in a bowl and whisking until it becomes a silky, jade green liquid.

I watched as the barista delicately poured the matcha over the Americano, the two liquids fusing together beautifully. 

After waiting for around 10 minutes, the items came out looking picture perfect. I was ecstatic to dig into the Mont Blanc. 

However, as the first bite of mochi matcha noodles and sweet smelling soft serve met with my mouth, my tastebuds were unimpressed. 

The matcha noodles were on the drier side and did not blend well with the other components of the dessert. The matcha soft serve, on the other hand, offered a rich, smooth, and creamy indulgence. 

I then dug my spoon all the way through the dessert, getting a bit of soft serve, mochi noodle, cream, and strawberry compote in one bite, in order to get the full experience. 

Altogether, the flavor profile of the dessert was satisfactory, but not worth $10 in my opinion.  

As someone who frequently enjoys purchasing and making matcha at home, Matcha Ren was not as marvelous as I had hoped. 

Although it would not be my first choice for matcha, it provides people with an adequate fix close to home. 

Even if matcha isn’t your preferred drink, I would still recommend giving it a try if you’re looking for a local place to fulfill your matcha cravings.