As many people like to say to matcha lovers, “Matcha tastes like grass.” They clearly have not had a top-tier matcha from places with mouthwatering, vibrant dark green matcha powder that convinces drinkers it does not, in fact, taste like grass—and is, surprisingly, highly addictive. In fact, really good matcha makes people want more.

According to a “matcha or coffee” poll conducted at West Chicago Community High School between Oct. 28 and 29, 54% of students and staff prefer coffee to matcha. It is therefore obvious that many people are missing out on the amazing flavor that is matcha, and should expand their taste buds by trying the top 5 matcha places in Illinois.

As matcha originated in Japan, it has become popular worldwide. Matcha also has many benefits, like reducing stress due to its antioxidants, boosting focus, and potentially preventing cancer. Around 2015, it started to get popular in the United States after Gwyneth Paltrow posted about a matcha latte on Instagram, drawing attention to its bright color and wellness associations, with social media amplifying the trend.

With matcha’s rising popularity and unique benefits in mind, it’s time to spotlight the local cafes that do it best. These are the top 5 matcha places in the Illinois suburbs that will blow away one’s taste buds after taking a sip of the dark, rich, creamy, flavorful matcha.