House of Awaki Opens Japanese Tea House in Bengaluru

House of Awaki has opened its first outlet in Bengaluru, introducing a contemporary Japanese tea house concept focused on premium Japanese teas, ceremonial Matcha and tea-led dining. Located in Kalyan Nagar, the 30–35-seater venue combines specialty teas, signature beverages and a curated Japanese-inspired food menu.

The concept is built around Japanese tea culture, with the name Awaki combining the idea of being "awake" with Ki, the Japanese philosophy associated with life force and energy.

The tea programme features six ceremonial Matcha cultivars—Ren, Kiyone, Takara, Ajisai, Bara and Yuri—sourced from Mie, Uji, Yame and Kagoshima in Japan. Guests can also explore three Houjicha varieties—Akane, Hibisu and Tsubaki—along with Genmai, Genmaicha and Rikka, offering a wider introduction to Japanese tea traditions.

The beverage menu includes creations such as Miso Cookie Caramel Matcha, Pandan Palm Candy, Coco Matcha Honey Lemon, Milo Akane and Coco Matcha Float, while the food menu features approximately 20 contemporary Japanese-inspired dishes. Signature offerings include Ponzu Prawn Inari, Chicken Karaage, Kale Tempura, Kimchi Udon, Braised Pork Belly and Mayak Egg Toast, along with desserts such as Matcha Basque Cheesecake, Matcha Houjicha Basque Cheesecake and Mocha Babka Toast.

Pranav Praburam, Founder, House of Awaki, said, "House of Awaki was created to introduce India to the depth and diversity of Japanese tea culture. My journey with Matcha transformed after travelling to Malaysia to learn from practitioners who viewed it as a craft rather than a trend. That experience inspired us to create a space where every tea has a story, every cup reflects craftsmanship and every guest leaves with a deeper appreciation of Japanese tea."

The culinary programme has been developed by Chef Mathangi Kumar, a Le Cordon Bleu, London alumna, with a focus on pairing dishes with the tea selection.

Chef Mathangi Kumar, Consulting Chef, House of Awaki, said, "The menu has been designed around the tea rather than alongside it. Every dish has been carefully created to complement the flavour profiles of the teas, resulting in an experience that is balanced, approachable and true to Japanese culinary philosophy."

The launch reflects the growing demand for specialty beverage concepts in India's hospitality sector. House of Awaki said it plans to expand the experience beyond its café through premium retail teas, ready-to-drink products, educational workshops and tea-focused community events.