LaRayia's Bodega — Restaurant in Atlanta

I wanted to love this place, I really did. I’ve given it multiple chances, hoping each time that I’d finally find my go-to cafe, a cozy spot where I could sip on a truly great matcha and feel like I’d found my little corner of comfort. But unfortunately, my last visit left me not just disappointed, but physically unwell.

I ordered their so-called ceremonial-grade matcha, expecting the smooth, vibrant, umami-rich experience that true ceremonial matcha should deliver. Instead, what I got was dull, bitter, and grainy clear signs that this was not the premium matcha they advertised. Worse, I later experienced stomach discomfort, which made me suspect that the matcha contained cornstarch or another filler, something that’s never found in true ceremonial-grade matcha and happens to be an ingredient I’m sensitive to.

It was frustrating, not just because I felt misled, but because I really wanted to enjoy this place and spent almost 9$ on a drink I hoped to enjoy but didn’t . I’ve tried to support them, given them my business, and hoped for better, but I can’t ignore how this experience left me feeling, both emotionally and physically.

I’d love for the café to make this right, not just for me, but for other matcha lovers who trust them to deliver what...

I stopped by here after walking on the Beltline for a bit and got a really refreshing smoothie. The employees here are so incredibly kind and helped me understand all their offerings as soon as I walked in. I’m not sure how to explain it other than that the vibes of the space and the people are amazing and welcoming. There were customers who came in while I was there who were clearly regulars, and I really love when you can feel a familial vibe between regulars and employees. The smoothie I ordered tasted delicious and was one of the smoothest smoothies I’ve ever had, I’m not sure what machines they use but it was blended so well! It’s a bit on the pricier side, so I won’t be able to come here as often as I would if I wasn’t a PhD student on a budget, but I will definitely be back to treat myself from time to time. Overall, if you’re looking to support a small business in a popular area in town, I definitely...

I decided to check out this location. First off parking is available at the ponce city market area. That was a plus. LaRayia’s Bodega is in the food hall. The music was nice. I was greeted. Customer service excellent. The things I ordered was Cardi B smoothie. It was very tropical not sweet just right. The cold press juice both refreshing. Casa Verde very healthy green juice. If you don’t like celery, I would not recommend this particular juice. My favorite item was the breakfast sandwich. I had the bacon, egg, cheese sandwich. The bacon was crispy and smoke like flavor. I do want to emphasize the sandwich was all vegan. Overall it was an amazing experience. I was so overwhelmed because the location sells alot. It has tshirt, artwork, necklaces, earrings, hats, smoothies, tea, coffee, juice, candles, crystals. They have it all. I will be back. If you are in the area make sure to...