The matcha mystique

Once found only at traditional Japanese tea ceremonies, matcha green tea powder, said to contain powerful antioxidants and detoxifying properties, is now turning up in Coffee Bean Ice Blendeds, Jamba Juice smoothies, pastries, ice cream and soup. At Little Tokyo’s Rafu Bussan emporium, store owner Skip Kawaratani guides shoppers along shelves of tea cans and bags that include the coveted Maeda-en version: $11 for a one-ounce can.

Rafu Bussan, 326 E. 2nd St., Los Angeles, (213) 614-1181.