Interview conducted by Fatiha Idrissi
🌿 Meet Hakuna Matchacha: A Matcha Brand Born in Dubai, Inspired by Japan 🍵🇯🇵
Hakuna Matchacha is a Dubai-based matcha brand founded by two French expatriates, Lena and Fanny, who share a deep passion for wellness and high-quality matcha. Their mission is to infuse a modern twist into the traditional Japanese tea ritual, making it joyful, accessible, and beneficial for both body and mind.
The brand name, “Hakuna Matchacha,” is a playful fusion of the Swahili phrase “Hakuna Matata,” meaning “no worries,” and “matcha,” reflecting their philosophy of promoting a carefree and energized lifestyle through the calming focus that matcha provides.
🌱 The Founders’ Journey: From Curiosity to Creation
Lena, a cabin crew member with a background in fitness and nutrition, and Fanny, a former nurse turned naturopath, met at entrepreneurial events in Dubai in 2021. Their shared interests led them to explore the world of matcha, a drink they initially found unappealing due to its bitterness and high sugar content in local offerings.hakunamatchacha.com
Determined to find a better alternative, they embarked on a journey of tasting over 30 different matchas from various countries, including Japan, the US, and France. Their quest culminated in discovering an award-winning organic matcha farm in Uji, Japan, renowned for its exceptional quality and recognized by the Japanese government. This matcha became the cornerstone of Hakuna Matchacha’s offerings. hakunamatchacha.com
🍃 Pure Ceremonial-Grade Matcha: Quality Without Compromise
Hakuna Matchacha sources its matcha directly from a small, award-winning organic farm in Japan’s Uji region. Only the youngest, shade-grown leaves from the first harvest are selected, ensuring a vibrant color, delicate taste, and maximum nutritional benefits. Their ceremonial-grade matcha has been recognized with the Grand Gold Award at the prestigious 11th International Institute of Tea Science and Culture in Japan. hakunamatchacha.com
⚡️ Why Matcha? A Healthful Alternative to Coffee
Unlike coffee, matcha provides a clean, sustained energy boost without the crash. Rich in L-theanine and antioxidants, it helps improve focus, reduce stress, and support metabolism. Additional benefits include:hakunamatchacha.com
- Sustained, calm energy without jitters
- Enhanced mental clarity and concentration
- Natural detoxification and pH balance
- Anti-aging properties protecting skin and organs
- Metabolic support aiding in blood sugar regulation and inflammation
These attributes make matcha a daily ritual that’s both indulgent and functional.
🌍 Bridging Tradition and Modern Living
Hakuna Matchacha seamlessly blends traditional Japanese tea culture with contemporary lifestyles. Their minimalist, aesthetic packaging and innovative tools, like the MixMate Mug—a portable, rechargeable electric whisk mug—redefine how matcha is consumed, whether at home, in the office, or on the go.
💫 More Than a Beverage: Cultivating a Wellness Community
Beyond selling matcha, Lena and Fanny are dedicated to fostering a community centered around wellness and mindfulness. They host workshops, pop-ups, and collaborations across the UAE, partnering with brands like Rolls-Royce and Cadillac to create experiences that reconnect individuals with themselves, one mindful cup at a time.
📍 Where to Find Hakuna Matchacha in the UAE
Hakuna Matchacha’s products are available at various locations across the UAE, including:
- Yvonne, Dubai Hills Mall: A fusion of fashion and gastronomy offering French cuisine and pastries.
- Forever Rose Cafe, Dubai and Abu Dhabi: A storybook-themed cafe providing an enchanting ambiance.
- Villa Margot, Dubai: A concept store featuring seasonal fresh flowers, local products, and a charming cafe.
- Balans Studios (Marina): A ladies-only sanctuary offering yoga, pilates, and barre classes.
- LeMuria Yoga Studio (Majan): A boutique studio offering yoga, mat Pilates, strength training, and ice bath sessions.
- La Maison (Business Bay & Ripe Market): A traditional Belgian pastry shop baking waffles daily.
🛍️ Shop and Connect
Explore Hakuna Matchacha’s range of products, including ceremonial-grade matcha powder, bamboo whisks, and the innovative MixMate Mug, by visiting their official website. Stay updated on their latest offerings and events by following them on Instagram.hakunamatchacha.com
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