Grainger Market Welcomes New Trader

Haku Haku, a new matcha bar is set to open in Alley 2 of the Grainger Market this week, marking another exciting addition to the historic Grade I listed building’s growing offer.

Owner, Clementine Cang, will serve visitors a range of traditional matcha blends, using the golden ratio shared by a Japanese tea ceremony master.

After moving to the North East to study Law at Northumbria University, Clementine, 25, is now preparing to officially open her first business in the Grainger Market this Friday. She joins a host of businesses that celebrate traditional Asian culture, including Tian’s Gifts, Dumpling and Bun and Chinese Noodle and Burger.

Speaking ahead of the opening, Clementine said: “Good matcha is always hidden in a little shop down a quiet alleyway or within a busy market. When I visit the Grainger Market, I really feel a strong sense of community – it genuinely connects people with one another.

“That is exactly what we expect for Haku Haku: to be a place that connects the community of people who love Japanese culture and traditions.

“We’ve already been trialling what works with customers and have already met so many regulars. I’m really looking forward to officially opening our doors this Friday.”

Haku Haku, which means ‘purity’ or ‘deep breath’ in Japanese, will sell a range of matcha blends – from Ujiji lattes ideal for beginners to Kyototo drinks which are stronger and favoured by matcha lovers.

The store will also have monthly specials using seasonal ingredients and flavours, with Ichigo being July’s - a sweet matcha blend with strawberry puree.

Cllr Owen Burbidge, Cabinet Member for Inclusive Economy and Skills at Newcastle City Council, said: "We're delighted to welcome Clementine and Haku Haku to the Grainger Market. It's fantastic to see another independent business choosing the market as the home for its first bricks-and-mortar store.

“Since the transformation, there has been a real buzz around the Grainger Market with more people discovering everything it has to offer, from fresh food and specialist retailers to unique independents and exciting places to eat and drink. Grainger Market is a thriving hub where small businesses can grow, innovate and become part of a supportive trading community here in the city centre.

“Haku Haku is a great addition to that mix, and I look forward to stopping by to try the drinks on offer."