First off let me start by saying this is by no means a comprehensive list. There are so many boba spots in The Bay (more everyday) and I am providing a small glimpse off some spots to check out in the East Bay. They are ranked according to the oldest to the newest in my own experience. These six places have offered me something I could not find somewhere else or they left a lasting impression for another reason.
I was in 7th grade when I first tried Quickly’s (I’m inserting the s because for some reason I thought there always was one?). An order of a regular bubble milk tea with pearls was my first introduction to boba. My classmates and I would sit around a table playing spoons while drinking our tea to accompany orders of popcorn chicken. I always return to Quickly for the nostalgia factor and their ridiculous sizes like a Chubby Cup which looks like I’m slurping taro milk tea out of a bowl. You can’t go wrong with a Strawberry Slush or a Honeydew Snow if you’re looking for something on the colder side. This establishment was also always cash only until a few years ago which is exciting for all of us who only carry a card! This is definitely one of the best boba spots!
Recently, playing board games became synonymous with boba and Sharetea is a perfect example of this combination. With games like Connect 4 and Jenga, this place is ideal for group outings but just as fun if you’re searching for a lowkey date night spot. Their service is usually quick and I have yet to be disappointed with an order of Peach Black Tea. They play current music throughout the shop and get extremely festive during the holidays which is always a plus.
I ended up at T4 thanks to a coupon in the mail for their soft opening and since then I have only seen their chain expand in the Bay Area. One of their most popular drinks is the Peppermint Milk Tea and for good reason. The boba is never tough and the peppermint is incredibly refreshing on a hot day which is something you don’t get from a lot of milk teas. If you’re looking for something on the fruit tea spectrum, their Wintermelon tea is a great mix of mint and lemonade.
Yes, they capitalize on that Boba Fett pun but that is not the best part of this boba spot. Not only are their drinks great and surprisingly filling despite the slim appearance, it also transforms into a sort of club vibe. I am a huge fan of their expansive seating areas and the glow in the dark menus. With choices like Red Starburst and Blueberry Pie, it’s no wonder why this place is always full of people!
The pun and the adorable west highland white terrier definitely influenced my visit to Westea. It was such a fresh concept and their tea only added to experience. Located in the valley where the weather reaches up to 15 degrees higher than expected, this is a great alternative to the nearby Starbucks. It is relatively new and if you aren’t in the mood for tea, you can always get some ice cream! This is one of the best boba spots because of the variety!
Complete credit goes to my best friend for introducing me to Happy Lemon because it has recently become my favorite boba spot. The Mango Matcha is amazing and a great drink if you need a break from typical tapioca at the bottom of your cup. You’ll see many pictures of their literal happy lemon chip which has an order number all over social media. This place is a great example of aesthetic and product perfectly blending together.
No matter your taste preferences, there’s a boba spot out there for everyone!
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