TOKKIA is a new addition to Covent Garden, and Europe’s first luxury Korean matcha house. Founded by Sooji Im — who previously introduced London to Korean tea culture with be-oom in Exmouth Market — the project brings a focused look at Korean matcha and the traditions surrounding it, presenting tea as something to be prepared and enjoyed with time and attention.
The name TOKKIA translates as “hey bunny” in Korean, a reference to Im’s rabbit Hazelnut, along with the moments that inspired the space. That idea carries through the house, where finely whisked matcha and hojicha are served alongside Korean saltbread, seasonal drinks, and a curated retail collection of teas, teaware, and TOKKIA merchandise.
“Korean matcha is defined by ease and quiet craftsmanship,” says Im. “With TOKKIA, I wanted to create a place where people can experience that warmth for themselves.” The tea itself is sourced directly from Hadong, a mountainous region widely regarded as the birthplace of Korean tea. Grown at around 500 metres above sea level, the leaves develop slowly in mineral-rich soil and a complex mountain climate. Harvested entirely by hand, the first-flush spring leaves form the base of TOKKIA’s matcha, which offers a softer profile than Japanese styles, with gentle sweetness, subtle toasted notes, and a clean, refreshing finish.
Each cup is whisked to order using water kept in Bangjja, traditional Korean hand-forged brassware once reserved for royalty. The brass naturally softens the water, allowing flavours to develop gradually, and reflects the Korean concept of jeong; a warmth expressed through care and attentiveness.
The menu includes Long Matcha, Matcha Latte, Sparkling Matcha, and a roasted Hojicha Latte. Seasonal drinks draw on teas from Jeju Island, including Persimmon Cinnamon Matcha Latte and Hoji Peanut Latte. Alongside the drinks, TOKKIA serves sogeum-bbang, a Korean saltbread with a crisp exterior and buttery centre.
Designed by Stephenson-Edwards in collaboration with architect Jack Holloway, the interior references the rabbit in Korean folklore as a symbol of care and reflection. Terrazzo floors, Bangjja teaware, and a ceiling installation inspired by geumjul complete a space that that rewards slow living and attentiveness.
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Photography, courtesy TOKKIA Covent Garden.
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