Boba milk tea, or “bubble tea,” is a frothy drink consisting of a tea base shaken with flavors or sweeteners and milk, with tapioca pearls or popping boba anchoring the beverage. This imaginative version of tea finds its roots in Taiwan in the 1980s, but several Coastal Bend establishments share their excellent versions of the drink.
- Hanaya Poke – This spot serves Hawaiian-style, Asian inspired poke bowls and sushi burritos. But its extensive tea menu should not be overlooked: The Rainbow Lychee is a fan favorite, consisting of lychee-flavored butterfly pea tea with rainbow popping pearls. (Multiple Locations)
- Happy Tea – Pick literally any tea on the menu here and you’ll be more than satisfied. Happy Tea’s selection includes caffeine-free options, various milk alternatives, roasted oolong and more. Plus, it features a BOGO 50% off special every Tuesday and Wednesday. (5433 S Staples St. Suite A)
- Vu Tea – Vu Tea’s star beverage is, of course, its bubble teas. Select the flavor of your cravings — we recommend the Mango Milk Tea or the Vietnamese Milk Coffee — and then add in your choice of “sinkers” (a variety of tapioca and popping pearls) to finish it off. (5634 McArdle Rd.)
- Rock And Rollin – Bubble tea and ice cream make quite the pairing, and to get Rock and Rollin’s full experience, we recommend ordering both. Its fresh bubble milk teas come in Classic, Jasmine Green Tea and Taro Milk flavors, and boba, popping boba and various jellies can be added. (2033 Airline Rd. Suite G5)
- Port A Poke – With a fairly new and revamped menu, Port A Poke is an excellent spot for more than just boba, but its selection of teas definitely doesn’t disappoint. Ten tea flavors, ranging from matcha to mango, are complemented perfectly by its delicious boba varieties. (345 N Alister St.)
