Vlad Vertsun
Google
Overrated Matcha Spot
We visited Damo because it is famous for its matcha, but honestly, it was a disappointment.
First, parking is a big problem — even though there is a small lot in front, it’s almost always full. Then comes the long line: we had to wait around 30 minutes (15–20 minutes outside in the heat, plus another 10–15 minutes inside). For just a cup of matcha, that’s too much. They should really add more staff on weekends to speed things up.
The matcha itself was very underwhelming. We ordered the strawberry matcha, but by noon most other flavors were already sold out. The drink tasted plain and watery, with too much ice. The strawberry pieces at the bottom were cut too big — impossible to drink with the regular straw. Instead of being well blended, it felt like we were eating fruit salad inside a drink. Honestly, this was one of the least enjoyable matcha drinks we’ve had in Los Angeles, even though we try new matcha places almost every weekend.
The interior is extremely minimalistic — clean, but a bit too empty and cold, more like a waiting room than a cozy café. Not a big minus, but it doesn’t add to the experience. And it was too loud.
Overall, the place feels overrated. The long wait and mediocre matcha are not worth it. We won’t be coming back, and I wouldn’t recommend it.