How Did Niko Neko Become One of Malaysia’s Leading Matcha Brands?

MONO Malaysia
November 6, 2025

A decade of redefining how Malaysians drink, share, and experience matcha

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.

A modern matcha cafe interior featuring a staff member preparing drinks behind the counter, with a customer walking in front. The decor includes green fabric drapes and stylish branding.

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.

A close-up of matcha powder being sifted through a fine mesh strainer in a glass container, placed on a black mat.

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 coffee bars to boutique bakeries — including ONO, which was listed in The World’s 100 Best Coffee Shops 2025.

And 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.Their influence extends beyond their own cafes. Their matcha powers creations at cafes like ONO, listed in The World’s 100 Best Coffee Shops 2025, and appears in lattes, desserts, and cocktails citywide.

At the same time, anyone can grab their powders online or in-store, bringing the experience home.

Four stacked cups of green matcha drinks held by hands against a muted background.

Four hands lifting transparent glasses filled with vibrant green matcha drinks in a celebratory toast.

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.

A barista pouring hot water into a bowl while preparing matcha at a cafe, with modern decor and a cat-shaped neon sign in the background.

So, 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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