Matcha is a premium drink, but profit disappears when powder grade, milk, and add-ons are not priced separately.
This guide shows how to cost a matcha cafe menu with clear price tiers.
Quick Summary
- Matcha cost = powder + milk + sweetener + cup/lid
- Grade matters: ceremonial grade needs a higher price
- Milk alternatives require a separate upcharge
- Add-ons should be priced by incremental cost
Where margin slips
- Using ceremonial grade but pricing like a regular latte
- Milk alternatives included at base price
- Extra scoops priced too low
- Packaging costs ignored for takeout
Base Formula
Drink cost = Matcha powder + Milk + Sweetener + Cup/Lid
Food cost % = Drink cost ÷ Menu priceExample (12 oz Matcha Latte)
- Matcha powder (2g): $0.90
- Milk (8 oz): $0.55
- Sweetener: $0.08
- Cup/Lid: $0.22
Total cost: $1.75
At $6.50, food cost is about 27%.
Price tiers that work
- Standard matcha (culinary grade)
- Premium matcha (ceremonial grade)
- Milk alternative upcharge ($0.50-$0.75)
Quick Checklist
- Powder grade separated by price tier
- Milk alternatives priced as add-ons
- Extra scoops priced by gram
- Takeout packaging included
Do This Now
- Weigh and record 3 portions of your main ingredient
- Calculate the cost per portion using your supplier invoice
- Set a portion standard and train your team
- Review your current menu price against 28-35% food cost target
- Update your pricing if food cost is above 35%
- Schedule a monthly cost review with your team
Related Guides
- US Coffee Shop Pricing Guide
- US Boba Tea Shop Cost Guide
- US Menu Pricing Calculator
- Food Cost Ratio Guide
Want This Done Automatically?
KitchenCost updates drink costs when powder or milk prices change. If you want to protect margin fast, start with KitchenCost.