Black Sheep Coffee, the UK-founded chain that now counts more than 130 locations worldwide, launched its autumn menu across all of its US cafés on 17 September. The headline is not the pumpkin drinks but the fact that tea takes centre stage: alongside matcha, the menu now includes hojicha, the roasted Japanese green tea known for its nutty, caramel-like character.
Guests can choose between ceremonial-grade matcha and hojicha in three latte recipes — plain, vanilla, or salted caramel and macadamia — all served hot or iced with any milk. There is also a Pumpkin Spice Matcha Latte, while the wider range adds pumpkin spice lattes built on cold brew and a maple and pecan açaí bowl. Everything is a limited-time seasonal offer.
Co-founder Eirik Holth said the brand wanted to bring back the autumn flavours customers expect while giving them something new to try, and that hojicha's roasted, nutty profile felt right for the colder months. It is another sign that coffee chains see Japanese green tea as a growth engine, not just an option for those who skip coffee.
Source: Tea & Coffee Trade Journal