First, a brief history. Hue Art Gallery had been one of the most active art galleries in Madison when it arrived on the scene in 2004, hosting new exhibits by local and regional artists each month. Under the direction of Rachel Fox and Erin Murray, Hue was a cooperative experience, with local artists being given the opportunity to both staff and exhibit in the unique space at 1934 Monroe Street.

However, as time went on, it became clear that art sales alone would not sustain the small gallery, so the idea for converting part of the space into a teahouse was born.

Here and now

We are fascinated with the combination of art and tea. Both have deep roots in many cultures around the world, making their appeal truly global. We are intrigued by the various ceremonies, traditions, and rituals in which tea is prepared and consumed, and the simple origins from which tea came has defined our teahouse philosophy.

So who are we?

Rachel Fox, former Hue Art Gallery co-director still manages art exhibitions but is also our events & reservations director. She is also responsible for all the bakery goodness coming out of the kitchen and can often be found experimenting with new cupcake or cookie concoctions. Favorite teas: Kabuse sencha, Matcha, Frost Oolong, Hojicha, Golden Pearls, and Genmaicha.

Anthony Verbrick is our teahouse manager and resident tea guru. He's into good house music and won't let you order anything obvious (like Earl Grey) during your first visit. Favorite teas: Matcha, Kabuse Sencha, Ali-Shan oolong, Silver Needle, Golden Needles, and Wild Arbor organic pu erh.

And what about our new name? Well, "ma-cha" derives from "matcha", a prized Japanese powdered green tea. Often prepared as part of the Japanese tea ceremony called chanoyu, matcha requires specific utensils to create the unique, frothy green tea. Stop in to the teahouse and we'll show you how it's done!