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Maruwu Seicha Disappoints

Maruwu Seicha Disappoints

The smell of vegetal umami and sweet matcha overpowered our senses as we walked into Maruwu Seicha, University Avenue’s newest cafe. The line of customers snaking around the block, eagerly awaiting their chance to sample the store’s unique and authentic Japanese matcha culinary experience only built our anticipation. 

Maruwu Seicha’s modern minimalist design, effused with hints of Japanese aesthetic, contrasts with the chaotic energy of the crowded space. The cafe’s buzzing atmosphere — with customers swarming around — reflects the fast-paced lives most Palo Alto citizens live. 

Maruwu Seicha was founded in San Francisco’s Japantown but opened its Palo Alto University Avenue location with a soft opening on Oct. 20. By sourcing their matcha from tea farms of Uji, Kyoto, Maruwu Seicha has attracted the attention of many locals and out of towners.

However, upon reaching the register, our excitement deflated as we learned the cafe had run out of its signature matcha soft-serve ice cream and gelato — especially upsetting considering the establishment is known for its matcha

Nevertheless, the cashier provided us with other recommendations.

 

Uji Matcha Cheese Tart ($4.50), 3.5/10

This baked treat — which almost looks like a miniature pie — presented an immediate sensory contradiction. The filling was unsurprisingly sour and creamy, but this combination still caught us off guard. Disappointingly, the celebrated matcha flavor was overwhelmed by an aggressive cheese profile. The tart’s shell seemed like a promising delicate pastry, but instead delivered an unpleasant, almost rancid taste that left much to be desired (a palate cleanser, to be precise). We also did not appreciate having to pay $4.50 for a tiny desert we barely ate.

Despite the letdown, we pressed on hopeful to explore the remainder of our order.

 

Hojicha Rich Chocolate & Hokkaido Milk Gelato Cup ($6.90), 8/10

This gelato offered a glimmer of hope after our unfortunate experience with the cheese tart. Initially, the warm brown chocolate roast tea smoothly contrasted the milky white hokkaido, which was visually appealing. But the first bite of the hojicha killed our hopes. The chocolate flavor, though rich, made the roast tea flavor profile bitter and off-putting.

But to our delight, the hokkaido’s simple flavor was exceptional, especially compared to the complexity of the hojicha chocolate. Although the hojicha chocolate is not one we would recommend to all matcha-lovers, it is worth experiencing if you are crazy about chocolate. 

 

Ice Hojicha Latte with Okinawa Boba ($7.20), 6.5/10

After the hojicha overpowered the gelato in our previous choice, we feared this drink would share the same flaw. At first, the latte tasted bitter and sweet at the same time which was confusing. But, after having a few more sips, the sweetness was finally apparent and the drink became enjoyable. The sweet taste of the brown sugar syrup coating chewy boba complimented the taste and helped control the bitter hojicha flavor. 

This drink may not be our top pick, but if you love smokey and bitter notes with just a touch of sweetness, and burning a hole in your pocket, then it’s definitely up your alley. 

 

Iced Strawberry Matcha Latte ($6.90), 9.5/10

We saved the best for last.

This drink stole the show with its bold, earthy matcha flavor that perfectly balanced the creamy smoothness of milk. Layers of vibrant-green matcha, silky-white milk and ruby-red macerated strawberries created a stunning gradient that was as photo-worthy as it was appetizing.

As for the taste? Even better. The sweet strawberry puree added a fruity twist and completely elevated the latte. This is a refreshing choice for anyone craving a subtle adventure without straying too far from the classic matcha latte. 

 

Final Thoughts

We walked into Maruwu Seicha with high expectations. Given the long wait, limited menu and seating, questionable quality of our first item, we were left unsatisfied. With some significant refinements — consistent ingredient availability, more careful flavor balancing and a more streamlined operation — Maruwu Seicha could become a noteworthy addition to the downtown food scene. For now, it remains a destination for adventurous eaters and one likely to disappoint picky ones.

 

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