Los Angeles’ ever-evolving food and culture scene has welcomed a tranquil new gem to the Silver Lake neighborhood: Sakura Bloom, an authentic Japanese tea house that’s offering Angelenos a serene escape from the city’s hustle while introducing the delicate rituals of Japanese tea culture.
Tucked behind a minimalist bamboo gate on Sunset Boulevard, Sakura Bloom is more than just a place to grab a cup of matcha. Designed by Kyoto-based architect Kenji Tsukamoto, the tea house blends traditional Japanese aesthetics with California’s laid-back vibe. Inside, the space is calm and meditative — tatami mats, soft wood tones, paper lanterns, and a central tea ceremony room where guests are invited to experience the centuries-old chanoyu (Japanese tea ceremony).
Owner and tea master Akiko Yamada, who relocated from Japan last year, describes the space as her “love letter to both Los Angeles and Kyoto.” She sources her ceremonial-grade matcha directly from Uji, Japan, and offers a rotating menu of seasonal wagashi (Japanese confections) made fresh daily in-house. Guests can book private tea sessions or drop in for curated tastings that include education about the history and symbolism of Japanese tea.
In a city known for speed, trends, and constant movement, Sakura Bloom invites a moment of stillness — and in doing so, brings a refreshing cultural experience to LA’s thriving lifestyle landscape. Locals and visitors alike are already buzzing on social media about the spot, making it one of Silver Lake’s most anticipated cultural havens of 2025.