Tranquility awaits tea enthusiasts at TOKKIA, Europe’s first luxury Korean matcha house, opening in London’s vibrant Covent Garden on December 4, 2025. Located at 3 Monmouth Street, this intimate, burrow-like space features a hand-painted timber sign marking the entrance to a unique tea experience. The first 100 visitors from December 4-6 will receive a special launch offer to celebrate this new addition to London’s dining scene.
A serene oasis of Korean tea culture blooms in Covent Garden’s heart, inviting Londoners into its peaceful embrace.
Founded by Sooji Im, who previously introduced Korean tea culture through be-oom in Exmouth Market, TOKKIA translates to “hey bunny” in Korean. The name draws inspiration from Im’s rabbit, Hazelnut, while the establishment emphasizes the quiet craftsmanship and accessibility of Korean matcha. The venue plans to launch exclusive retail items including specialized matcha sets in early 2026.
The space was designed by Joe Stephenson and Toby Edwards of Stephenson Edwards, with collaboration from British architect Jack Holloway. The interior features lightly lime-washed walls and terrazzo-toned tiled stations, creating a restrained palette of natural textures. Staff members, dressed in sage-green jackets, prepare matcha at dedicated stations. The design aims to create an immersive environment where guests can fully appreciate the tea experience. A striking ceiling installation draws inspiration from traditional Korean geumjul artistry.
TOKKIA sources its tea from Hadong, considered the birthplace of Korean tea. Grown at 500 meters above sea level in mineral-rich soil, the hand-harvested first-flush spring leaves offer a softer profile than Japanese matcha, featuring gentle sweetness, subtle toasted notes, and a clean finish.
The preparation method involves whisking matcha to order using Bangjja brassware, historically reserved for Korean royalty. This brassware naturally softens water, allowing for gradual flavor development and embodying the Korean concept of jeong—warmth through care. In Korea, matcha is known as malcha, meaning powdered tea. Visitors will soon be able to experience the authentic Korean tea aesthetic that reflects the country’s spirit, quiet beauty, and rhythm.
The menu includes Long Matcha served hot or cold, Matcha Latte, Sparkling Matcha, and Roasted Hojicha Latte. Seasonal offerings feature Persimmon Cinnamon Matcha Latte and Hoji Peanut Latte. Visitors can also enjoy sogeum-bbang saltbread with its crisp exterior and buttery center, perfectly complementing the tea selections.
