Bubble tea—full of fragrance, texture, and just the right amount of sweetness—has evolved so much from its original form. What started as a simple black milk tea with those tantalizingly QQ tapioca balls is now a globally chimerical drink.
LessLocally franchised here in Memphis, this Taiwanese-American-owned bubble tea chain from Queens, New York, tries to replicate the teas the founders remember drinking in Taiwan. The strong, almost pungent fragrance with a bitter finish comes through in their milk teas. The Classic Black Tea is a must-try—a malty and fruity Assam tea much like Southern sweet tea.
Boba Society uses real cane sugar in all of their drinks. Their menu is extensive, meaning there is something for everyone, but also it's hard to choose just one tea! The Sea Cream Jasmine Tea is a standout. The salty cream perfectly balances the aromatic jasmine tea. Also check out their Red Bean Coconut Milk Tea, Yuzu Citrus Lemon Tea, and Strawberry and Guava Black Fruit Tea.
This Vietnamese cafe just opened in Midtown in December 2024—and what an addition to the scene! The Tropical Tea was tropical and tea-forward with lots of fresh fruits and treats. The Peach Tea had real peach slices! The Coconut Coffee is a unique combination of coconut milk and espresso. In addition to beverages, Pearl's has banh mi, sweets, and Vietnamese fare, as well as plenty of space to hang.
This Taiwanese bakery hits you hard, first with its selection of Taiwanese-inspired pastries, and then with its selection of bubble teas. You should definitely check out the Four Seasons Tea, a Taiwan cultivar that is hard to find; it’s a perfect cuppa, hot or cold, and easy to drink.
This Vietnamese chain from Houston, Texas, has a wonderfully stylish space along with a menu full of picture-perfect bubble teas. Try the Golden Citron Honey, Taro Ube Brulee, Original Thai Tea, and Japanese Brown Rice Milk Tea for the full gamut of options. The Taro Ube highlights the earthy vanilla flavors of taro and ube. The Japanese Brown Rice Milk Tea gives you a nice rice flavor reminiscent of horchata without the cinnamon. Don't miss the Bep Signature Coffee! Each flavor in their drinks
With locations in Olive Branch, Southaven, Midtown, East Memphis, and Cordova, Poke World certainly has made its mark. Along with the normal bubble tea flavors, try the Yakult Green Tea for a very Taiwanese flavor combination as well as the Signature Fruit Tea. They also have a variety of salted cream teas, and the Taro Oatmilk Milk Tea is a warm comfort on a winter day.
With locations in Olive Branch, Southaven, Midtown, East Memphis, and Cordova, Poke World certainly has made its mark. Along with the normal bubble tea flavors, try the Yakult Green Tea for a very Taiwanese flavor combination as well as the Signature Fruit Tea. They also have a variety of salted cream teas, and the Taro Oatmilk Milk Tea is a warm comfort on a winter day.
With locations in Olive Branch, Southaven, Midtown, East Memphis, and Cordova, Poke World certainly has made its mark. Along with the normal bubble tea flavors, try the Yakult Green Tea for a very Taiwanese flavor combination as well as the Signature Fruit Tea. They also have a variety of salted cream teas, and the Taro Oatmilk Milk Tea is a warm comfort on a winter day.
Mochi & Mi's Southaven and Cordova locations have built their quick success on Vietnamese fare, including amazing mochi donuts, but they also have a refreshing selection of bubble teas. Try Mochi's Tropical Tea with both the Hibiscus and Jasmine options and the Chamomile Longan Tea. The Winter Melon and Grass Jelly Tea is a fun introduction to herbal jellies and the Cafe Muoi/Salted Cream Coffee is a hit.
Located in Collierville, this Vietnamese chain boasts banh mi, baked goods, and a few bubble teas. Standouts are the Artichoke Tea, Paris By Night, and Paris Fruits Tea. The Iced Sea Salt Coffee paired with a banh mi is a perfect lunch. You can also grab a bowl of pho or other Vietnamese dishes like meat buns and noodle salads!
This new spot is on the corner of East Parkway and Central Avenue. The cute interior is inviting—perfect to hang out and enjoy their Horchata or Brown Sugar Milk Tea. The ginger comes through nicely in their Ginger Honey Tea, and the Brown Sugar Boba is pretty spot on. Boba Boba Life also serves up paninis, ramen, and Korean grilled cheese!