Garden Lab Tea & Bar — Restaurant in Kyoto

On a trip to Kyoto I visited the Garden Lab two times. Both of my in person visits, while very expensive compared to other bars/tea places, were phenomenal. It is such a great vibe. I ordered a matcha amd seasonal green tea blend (warming spices) on my firat visit and a cocktail on my subsequent visit. The staff was excellent, the drinks were excellent, and the ambience was phenomenal.

As everything was so great, being a tea and matcha aficionado, I decided to get two cans of the matcha for sale - the okumidori and the uji blend. Unfortunately, despite being well before the expiration date, and storing these in the freezer prior to opening, both teas were oxidized to the point where they were completely undrinkable, even though they had been sealed in the bag they come in. I could understand one matcha having an issue, but both being spoiled (and being different varieties) indicate some sort of oversight. I was very disappointed.

So takeaway: excellent drinks, staff, location, and experience. But don't buy their...

This intimate tea and cocktail bar in Kyoto offers a unique experience that blends the elegance of tea with the craft of mixology. The owner, a true artisan, meticulously crafts each drink using high-quality teas as a base, creating cocktails that are both complex and balanced.

The minimalist yet inviting setting perfectly complements the artistry behind the drinks, making it an ideal spot to unwind. The owner's thoughtful explanations of the tea profiles add a personal touch to the experience. For anyone visiting Kyoto, this bar is a must for those seeking a one-of-a-kind...

We found this quiet oasis after seeking a break from all of our walking. It was so calming and peaceful. We got the ‘Tea & Cocktail tasting set’ which was amazing. Wakana made us the most deliciously unique tea which was so calming and cocktails that we’d never tasted before, all with such authentic and original flavour. There is also soothing piano music in the background that almost puts you to sleep. It’s a real sensory massage and highly recommend it if you have time to sit down and relax...