5 reasons why 2026 is the year of the matcha

Not sure what’s in store for 2026? We do – it’s matcha. Here are five reasons why 2026 is going to be the year of the matcha (generally and at Ribs & Burgers).

As one year closes, it’s delicious to be able to look forward to something with confidence. And that confidence at Ribs & Burgers is that 2026 will be the year of the matcha.

And here are five reasons why we have matcha to look forward to like a ray of light in 2026.

1. Because Uber Eats says so

Uber Eats recently reached the milestone of a billion deliveries in Australia. While we’re proud to say that we’re undoubtedly part of that number bringing delicious treats, quenching thirsts, and satisfying cravings all across the country, we haven’t (yet) played a role in one of Australia’s biggest orders: matcha.

According to the Uber Eats report for 2025, Aussies are craving matcha like never before. Orders have apparently risen by 217% in just two years, with “hundreds of thousands of orders in NSW leading the green-tea takeover.”

And if Uber Eats says this is becoming a trend, that’s one tasty bandwagon we’re ready to jump onto.

2. Because we’re ready for the health benefits

Thinking of setting a health-related goal in 2026? Perhaps matcha can help.

Studies have found that matcha contains “an abundance” of antioxidants and phytochemicals, which can both have some positive effects on health. For example, antioxidants can help to lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels, and other ingredients can have anti-inflammatory effects.

3. Because we need a break from coffee

Sometimes, you want something to drink that will pick you up, but you’ve simply had enough coffee or you don’t need another major caffeine hit in your day.

Matcha to the rescue.

While this tea-based drink certainly does still contain caffeine, it is usually less than your average cup of coffee. Or maybe you just want to switch up your usual order and keep your local barista on their toes. We hear they love that.

 4. Because it’s just so aesthetic

 They say that the grass is always greener on the other side, but we think the grass is always greener when you treat it to your favourite matcha drink.

And in a world where the official Pantone Colour of the Year for 2026 has just been announced as white (or ‘Cloud Dancer’ if you want to put a whimsical word on it), we think that the bright, lively hues of matcha are a much needed infusion of happiness and tastiness.

5. Because we’re launching a Strawberry Matcha Shake

 You might’ve guessed it, but you almost certainly aren’t excited enough until you’ve actually tried it – we’re launching our very own Strawberry Matcha Shake in 2026!

Joining our esteemed selection of refreshing, satisfying thickshakes, this Strawberry Matcha Shake combines the sweetness of strawberry with the umami notes of matcha for a flavour combo you’ll be craving throughout the year to come.

Whether you order it from Uber as a treat by itself or come in for a sit down meal with all the bells and whistles, this Strawberry Matcha Shake will be your new Ribs & Burgers must-have for 2026.