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INTERVIEW
In 2020, Cara Li, co-founder of Matchali, introduced Hong Kong to the flavours of Uji, Kyoto – the world’s matcha capital – with her now-popular brand and Starstreet Precinct cafe. Sourcing first-harvest ceremonial grade matcha from a fifth-generation tea farm, Matchali crafts each drink with care, hand-whisking every order with superfoods, plant-based milks, and preservative-free, unprocessed ingredients – never refined sugars. We sat down with Cara to get her top wellness tips for thriving in Asia.
How do you maintain a stringent wellness routine amid your busy schedule?
I always start my day with a green juice and matcha latte for a slow releasing caffeine boost and energy to get me through my busy mornings. Exercise is definitely a priority to me therefore it’s important that I carve out time and schedule my workouts like any other appointment. I usually start my day with movement and I work out most days. I find being consistent and having a routine is key.
I like to mix up my workouts and keep things fun! My workout routine consists of strength training twice a week. I train at HIT PT with James Chester. James and I set clear fitness goals and an action plan to achieve them – James has been integral in helping me feel strong again post pregnancy. I spin at XYZ 1-2 times a week (I love the music, energy and community – it’s such a great sweat!). I also do Pilates at Defin8 to incorporate some stretching and lengthening and core work. My husband and I try to get a game of tennis in weekly too!
I usually wear workout clothes and sneakers most days so that I can be comfortable and walk around the city as much as possible. I like to walk from Central to Matchali's Moon Street store and through Hong Kong Park to get my steps in.
Where are your top 5 restaurants and go-to dishes in Hong Kong for a quick, healthy and delicious meal?
Salisterra for family food salads – falafel crunch and salmon miso are my go-to!
Fish Bar at JW Marriott – the blackened barramundi and salad
La Petite Maison – sweet corn salad, yellowtail carpaccio, Chilean bass
Francis – hummus, falafel, lamb ribs
Mott 32 – steamed garoupa, har gow, choy sum
What are your favourite orders at Matchali?
I drink a Matcha latte with oat milk every day, and when I was pregnant, I switched to a Hojicha latte with oat milk for a lower caffeine option. I'm also really enjoying our summer special, the watermelon Matcha – it's a refreshing and delicious combo. My go-to food order is the green tea soba salad. It's light yet filling, and I love the agave tamari dressing.
Where are your favourite hotels in Asia right now?
What are the top 3 wellness products you always travel with?
What are your top tips for someone in Hong Kong who's trying to incorporate a healthier lifestyle?
Find an exercise you enjoy and a workout plan you can maintain. Schedule time to move your body – whether it's walking, stretching, or taking a fitness class – even if it's just for 15-30 minutes. Join a community that motivates you or work out with friends! Hong Kong has so many beautiful walks and hikes that are even more fun with a friend. Take the stairs and walk whenever you can. Walking is a great way to keep your body moving and boost your mood!
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Address: Matchali, G/F, 5 Moon Street, Wan Chai, Hong Kong | Phone: +852 9880 7661 | Email: info@matchali.com | Facebook: Matchali Moon Street | Instagram: @matchali_hk
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