Boba is a trend that got its start in Taiwan and has since gained popularity, with the US becoming a major hub for those sweet, bubbly tapioca pearls. It seems like boba tea stands and shops are popping up just about everywhere and now, there are even stores that span across the country for all to enjoy. With that being said, there are just as many multiple-location boba tea shops, on both the east and west coasts. Mixed with a juice blend, ice tea, or milk tea, boba is something that's enjoyed by everyone as a fun lunchtime snack, a morning pick me up, or even as a dessert depending on the drink's level of sweetness.
For those who don't enjoy boba pearls in their drinks, fear not - all of these shops offer options from thick, blended drinks to regular juice blends and tea options. The world of boba is far and wide and has come so far past regular milk tea (although the powers of a delicious cup of milk tea definitely should not be underestimated!), and these shops are showing the world that yes, you can have your boba and drink it, too. Surprisingly, many of these shops have been around for quite some time so while the boba trend has only gained speed over the last few years, some of these locations have been open for well over a decade. That means there's a history - and a legacy - that comes with every boba tea purchase and customers can feel reassured in knowing that every order has been perfected, created, and made in the best way possible. When it comes to boba, these shops are proving to the US how it's actually done.
There's a great boba tea shop just waiting to be checked out and for those who haven't tried this delicious treat yet, be ready for a game-changer - you'll never think of tea in the same way ever again!
Sharetea
Sharetea has actually been around for quite some time - more than a decade - since its founding back in 1992. Those who live near one of these shops are pretty lucky since the company was founded in Taiwan, meaning every option on the menu is authentic and inspired by traditional Taiwan boba tea.
Sharetea uses only the highest of ingredients to make all of their drinks and originally, they only started out with black tea and pearl milk tea, so their options have grown and become quite varied. There's something for everyone there and locations can be found via their website.
Kung Fu Tea
Kung Fu Tea is another boba tea company that has locations throughout the US and it's definitely a shop worth finding. The Washington Post has referred to Kung Fu Tea as the 'Starbucks' of boba tea and Food Network has been quoted as saying 'It [Kung Fu Tea] will always have their heart.'
The company was founded in Queens, New York in 2010 and has since grown in popularity, with the ability to expand its reach to many other states. The menu is nothing short of impressive with anything from slushies to milk tea, milk caps, and even seasonal specialties. The hardest part is deciding on only one boba tea to try but the good news is that fans can come back anytime they want!
Fat Straws (Portland, Oregon)
Fat Straws is unique in both name and in its offerings as everything on the menu is gluten-free. This is obviously a big deal as the boba balls themselves are gluten-free, opening up many options to those who want to enjoy the deliciousness that is boba tea.
Fat Straws also offers vegan options so it's a great one-stop-shop for any and all lifestyles, making it a huge hit in Portland. For those seeking milk substitutes, don't worry - Fat Straws also offers a fairly diverse range of non-dairy alternatives for customers to enjoy, making them one of the most versatile boba tea shops.
Tea And Milk (New York City)
Tea and Milk is throwing their own personal twist on boba tea with a special milk blend that's unique to their shop, which is located in New York City. Everything on the menu here is also created with high-quality ingredients and all-natural ingredients, so customers can be sure that everything they're ordering has been made with nothing but the best flavor and quality in mind.
Most of their options are also gluten-free which is great for those who think they can't enjoy a tasty boba tea, and they sacrifice nothing to achieve awesome flavor in every option offered on this expansive menu.