Discover the Top 10 Best Boba Shops in Austin for Your Bubble Tea Fix

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Discover the best boba in Austin with our list of top spots. From classic favorites to unique flavors, satisfy your bubble tea cravings today!


If you're a fan of boba, then you know that not all bubble tea drinks are created equal. Austin is known for its vibrant food scene, and the boba shops around town are no exception. Whether you prefer classic flavors like milk tea or adventurous combinations like lavender honey, there's a boba shop in Austin that caters to your taste buds. In this article, we'll take a look at some of the best boba spots in Austin and what makes them stand out.

First up on our list is Coco's Cafe, a popular boba spot located in the heart of downtown. Known for its extensive menu of drinks and snacks, Coco's Cafe offers everything from fruity smoothies to savory snacks like popcorn chicken. But what really sets this boba shop apart is its commitment to using high-quality ingredients. The milk teas here are made with fresh milk and real tea leaves, resulting in a rich and creamy drink that's hard to beat.

If you're a fan of fruity boba drinks, then you have to check out Sharetea. With locations all over the world, Sharetea has become a go-to spot for those looking for refreshing and flavorful drinks. One of the standout drinks here is the mango green tea, which combines the subtle bitterness of green tea with the sweetness of fresh mango. And if you're feeling adventurous, try the wintermelon milk tea for a unique twist on a classic flavor.

For those looking for a unique boba experience, Tea Haus is the place to go. This shop specializes in Taiwanese-style boba drinks, which are known for their extra-large boba pearls and unique flavor combinations. One of the most popular drinks at Tea Haus is the brown sugar boba milk, which features chewy boba pearls coated in a sweet and sticky brown sugar syrup. And if you're feeling daring, try the oolong tea with cheese foam for a savory and creamy twist.

If you're in the mood for something a little more indulgent, head over to Kung Fu Tea. This boba shop is known for its rich and decadent drinks, which are perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth. One of the must-try drinks here is the taro slush with boba, which features a creamy blend of taro root and milk topped with chewy boba pearls. And if you're feeling extra adventurous, try the matcha slush with red beans for a unique combination of flavors.

Another popular boba spot in Austin is Tsaocaa. This shop specializes in handcrafted teas and uses only premium loose-leaf teas in its drinks. The boba pearls here are made in-house and are cooked to the perfect texture, resulting in a chewy and flavorful addition to any drink. Some of the standout drinks at Tsaocaa include the brown sugar boba latte and the butterfly pea flower tea, which features a vibrant blue color and subtle floral notes.

If you're looking for a boba spot with a laid-back vibe, then you have to check out Gong Cha. This chain originated in Taiwan and has since become a popular destination for boba lovers all over the world. The drinks here are made with high-quality ingredients and feature a wide range of flavors, from classic milk teas to fruity blends. And if you're in the mood for something sweet, try the caramel milk tea with boba for a rich and indulgent treat.

For those looking for a boba spot with a cozy atmosphere, check out 101 by Tea Haus. This shop offers a more intimate setting than its sister shop, Tea Haus, but still features the same high-quality teas and boba pearls. One of the standout drinks here is the rose milk tea, which features a delicate floral flavor and is topped with chewy boba pearls. And if you're in the mood for something sweet, try the honeydew slush with boba for a refreshing and fruity treat.

If you're in the mood for something a little different, head over to Cha House. This shop specializes in Vietnamese-style coffee and tea drinks, which feature bold flavors and unique ingredients. One of the must-try drinks here is the egg coffee, which combines strong coffee with a frothy layer of egg yolk and condensed milk. And if you're looking for a refreshing option, try the lychee iced tea with boba for a sweet and fruity drink.

Another popular boba spot in Austin is Kokee Tea. This shop offers a wide range of drinks, from classic milk teas to blended fruit drinks. One of the standout drinks here is the matcha latte with boba, which features a rich and creamy blend of matcha powder and milk. And if you're feeling adventurous, try the durian smoothie for a unique and exotic flavor.

Last but not least on our list is Tsa Tea & Coffee. This shop offers a cozy atmosphere and a wide range of drinks, including classic milk teas and unique blends like the banana caramel latte. The boba pearls here are made fresh daily and have the perfect texture, making them a perfect addition to any drink. And if you're in the mood for something sweet, try the chocolate milk tea with boba for a rich and indulgent treat.


Introduction

Boba or bubble tea is a Taiwanese drink that has gained immense popularity in recent years. It is a tea-based drink with chewy tapioca balls, also known as bubbles or pearls, added to it. Austin is known for its vibrant food scene and has a variety of boba shops to choose from. In this article, we will explore the best boba options in Austin.

1. Kung Fu Tea

Kung Fu Tea is a popular chain of boba shops with multiple locations in Austin. They offer a wide range of drinks, including milk teas, fruit teas, slushies, and more. Their menu also includes toppings like boba, jelly, and pudding. The drinks are made fresh to order, and the staff is friendly and efficient.

2. Must-Try: Brown Sugar Boba Milk

One of Kung Fu Tea's most popular drinks is the Brown Sugar Boba Milk. It is a decadent and creamy drink made with brown sugar syrup, fresh milk, and boba. The sweetness of the syrup combined with the chewiness of the boba makes for a delicious treat.

3. Tsaocaa

Tsaocaa is a trendy boba shop located in North Austin. They specialize in handcrafted teas made with high-quality ingredients. Their menu features classic flavors like jasmine green tea and oolong tea as well as unique blends like black sesame latte and matcha latte.

4. Must-Try: Strawberry Matcha Latte

If you're looking for something refreshing and unique, try Tsaocaa's Strawberry Matcha Latte. It is a creamy and smooth drink made with matcha powder, fresh strawberries, and milk. The hint of sweetness from the strawberries balances the bitterness of the matcha perfectly.

5. Coco's Cafe

Coco's Cafe is a cute and cozy boba shop located in South Austin. They offer a variety of drinks, including milk teas, fruity teas, and slushies. Their menu also includes snacks like popcorn chicken and egg puffs.

6. Must-Try: Taro Milk Tea

A fan favorite at Coco's Cafe is their Taro Milk Tea. It is a creamy and indulgent drink made with taro powder, fresh milk, and boba. The subtle nutty flavor of the taro pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the boba.

7. Sharetea

Sharetea is a global boba chain with a location in Austin. They specialize in traditional Taiwanese bubble tea and offer a range of flavors and toppings. Their drinks are made with high-quality tea leaves and fresh ingredients.

8. Must-Try: Classic Milk Tea

If you're looking for a classic and straightforward boba drink, try Sharetea's Classic Milk Tea. It is a simple yet satisfying drink made with black tea, fresh milk, and boba. The balance of tea and milk makes for a smooth and flavorful drink.

9. Gong Cha

Gong Cha is another global boba chain with a location in Austin. They offer a wide range of drinks, including milk teas, fruit teas, and specialty drinks. Their menu also features a variety of toppings, including boba, grass jelly, and pudding.

10. Must-Try: Dirty Brown Sugar Milk Foam

One of Gong Cha's most popular drinks is the Dirty Brown Sugar Milk Foam. It is a creamy and frothy drink made with brown sugar syrup, fresh milk, and topped with a layer of brown sugar foam. The combination of sweet and savory flavors makes for a unique and delicious drink.

Conclusion

Whether you're a boba enthusiast or a newcomer, Austin has something to offer. From classic milk teas to unique blends, there is no shortage of options when it comes to boba. Try one of the above boba shops, and you won't be disappointed.
Boba, also known as bubble tea, has taken Austin by storm. Originating in Taiwan in the 1980s, boba has become a worldwide phenomenon, and Austin is no exception. Whether you're a seasoned boba enthusiast or just dipping your toes into this sweet and refreshing beverage, Austin has plenty of options to satisfy your cravings. In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore the history of boba in Austin, the best boba shops in the city, and unique flavors to try. We'll also cover low-sugar and dairy-free options, budget-friendly shops, and late-night boba spots. So sit back, relax, and read on to discover the best boba in Austin.

The History of Boba in Austin: How it all Began

Boba first arrived in Austin in the early 2000s, but it wasn't until the mid-2010s that it really began to take off. Today, you can find boba shops all over the city, from downtown to the suburbs. The popularity of boba can be attributed to its unique texture and flavor. Boba pearls, which are made from tapioca starch, have a chewy texture that pairs perfectly with the sweet and creamy tea base. Over time, boba shops in Austin have experimented with different flavors and toppings, creating a diverse range of options for customers.

The Top Boba Shops in Austin: A Comprehensive Guide

Now, let's dive into the top boba shops in Austin. These shops were chosen based on their quality of ingredients, variety of flavors, and overall customer experience.

1. Coco's Cafe

Located in North Austin, Coco's Cafe is a hidden gem that offers some of the best boba in the city. Their classic milk tea is a fan favorite, but they also offer unique flavors like taro and matcha. Coco's Cafe also has a variety of toppings, including lychee jelly and aloe vera.

2. Kung Fu Tea

Kung Fu Tea is a popular chain that has multiple locations throughout Austin. They offer both classic and fruit tea boba options, with flavors like strawberry lemonade and kiwi green tea. Kung Fu Tea also has a rewards program for frequent customers, making it a great spot for regular boba drinkers.

3. Tsaocaa

Tsaocaa is a Taiwanese boba shop located in downtown Austin. They specialize in fruit tea boba, with flavors like mango and passion fruit. Tsaocaa also offers a unique cheese foam topping, which adds a savory element to the sweet drink.

4. Gong Cha

Another popular chain, Gong Cha has two locations in Austin. They offer classic milk tea boba as well as unique flavors like wintermelon and honeydew. Gong Cha also has a variety of toppings, including boba pearls and grass jelly.

5. Thirstea Cafe

Thirstea Cafe is a cozy boba spot located in South Austin. They offer classic milk tea boba as well as refreshing fruit tea options like peach and strawberry. Thirstea Cafe also has a variety of snack options, including popcorn chicken and fried squid.

Classic Boba vs. Fruit Tea Boba: Which is Better?

When it comes to boba, there are two main categories: classic and fruit tea. Classic boba is typically made with a black tea base and sweetened condensed milk, while fruit tea boba is made with a fruit-flavored tea base and fresh fruit.Both types of boba have their pros and cons. Classic boba is rich and creamy, with a comforting flavor that many people enjoy. Fruit tea boba, on the other hand, is light and refreshing, with a natural sweetness that comes from the fruit.Ultimately, the choice between classic and fruit tea boba comes down to personal preference. Some people prefer the traditional flavor of classic boba, while others enjoy the fruity twist of fruit tea boba.

Boba with a Twist: Unique Flavors to Try in Austin

If you're feeling adventurous, there are plenty of unique boba flavors to try in Austin. Here are a few options to get you started:

1. Brown Sugar Milk Tea

Brown sugar milk tea is a newer boba flavor that has taken the world by storm. It's made with black tea, fresh milk, and a generous amount of brown sugar syrup, which gives it a caramel-like flavor. Look for this flavor at shops like Coco's Cafe and Kung Fu Tea.

2. Lavender Earl Grey Tea

For a floral twist on classic boba, try lavender earl grey tea. This fragrant tea is mixed with sweetened condensed milk and topped with boba pearls. You can find this flavor at Tsaocaa.

3. Thai Tea

If you're a fan of spicy and sweet flavors, try Thai tea boba. This tea is made with black tea, spices, and sweetened condensed milk, giving it a unique flavor profile. Look for this flavor at shops like Gong Cha.

Bubble Tea and Beyond: Other Refreshing Boba Varieties in Austin

While boba is the star of the show at these shops, they also offer other refreshing beverages. Here are a few options to try:

1. Freshly Squeezed Juice

Many boba shops in Austin offer freshly squeezed juice options, which are a great alternative to sugary drinks. Look for flavors like watermelon and orange at Thirstea Cafe.

2. Smoothies

For a creamy and fruity option, try a smoothie from Kung Fu Tea. They offer flavors like strawberry banana and mango.

3. Sparkling Water

If you're looking for a non-alcoholic beverage with a little fizz, try sparkling water from Tsaocaa. They offer flavors like grapefruit and lemon.

Health-Conscious Boba: Where to Find Low-Sugar and Dairy-Free Options

If you're watching your sugar intake or avoiding dairy, there are still plenty of boba options for you in Austin. Here are a few shops that offer low-sugar and dairy-free options:

1. The Steeping Room

The Steeping Room is a tea shop with two locations in Austin. They offer dairy-free and vegan boba options, as well as low-sugar options. Their Fruit Tea Fizz is a refreshing option for those who want something light and bubbly.

2. Five Drinks

Five Drinks is a newer boba shop that offers unique flavors like lavender honey and charcoal coconut. They also offer low-sugar and dairy-free options, making it a great spot for health-conscious boba drinkers.

3. Sharetea

Sharetea is another popular chain that has a location in Austin. They offer a variety of boba flavors, including low-sugar and dairy-free options. Their Mango Yakult is a fan favorite for those who want a sweet and tangy drink.

Boba on a Budget: Affordable Shops in Austin

Boba can be an expensive treat, but there are plenty of affordable options in Austin. Here are a few shops that won't break the bank:

1. Tapioca House

Tapioca House is a casual boba spot located in North Austin. They offer classic and fruit tea boba options, as well as a variety of toppings. Their prices are some of the most affordable in the city, making it a great spot for those on a budget.

2. Snowy Village

Snowy Village is a Korean dessert shop that offers shaved ice and boba. Their boba options are affordable, with prices starting at just $3.50. They also offer unique flavors like red bean and green tea.

3. Tea Haus

Tea Haus is a cozy boba spot located in South Austin. They offer classic milk tea boba as well as fruit tea options, with prices starting at just $3.50. Tea Haus also has a rewards program for frequent customers.

Boba for the Instagram Feed: The Most Instagrammable Boba Shops in Austin

If you're looking for boba that's not only delicious but also Instagram-worthy, these shops have got you covered:

1. Halcyon Coffee Bar and Lounge

Halcyon is a trendy coffee bar that offers both classic and fruit tea boba options. Their boba drinks are served in mason jars, making them perfect for Instagramming.

2. The Baked Bear

The Baked Bear is a dessert shop that offers ice cream sandwiches and boba. Their boba drinks are served in lightbulb-shaped glasses, which make for a fun and unique photo opp.

3. SnoMo Cafe

SnoMo Cafe is a dessert shop that offers shaved ice and boba. Their drinks are served in colorful, Instagram-worthy cups that will brighten up your feed.

Boba for the Late Night Cravings: Late Night Boba Shops in Austin

Sometimes you just need a late-night boba fix. These shops are open late and ready to satisfy your cravings:

1. Kung Fu Tea

Kung Fu Tea has two locations in Austin that are open until midnight on weekends. They offer classic and fruit tea boba options, as well as a variety of toppings.

2. Coco's Cafe

Coco's Cafe is open until 10pm every day, making it a great spot for a late-night boba fix. They offer classic and unique boba flavors, as well as snacks like popcorn chicken.

3. Tsaocaa

Tsaocaa is open until 11pm every day, making it a great option for a late-night boba run. They specialize in fruit tea boba, with unique flavors like passion fruit and grapefruit.

Boba with a View: Scenic Boba Shops in Austin

Finally, if you're looking for boba with a view, these shops won't disappoint:

1. The Oasis on Lake Travis

The Oasis on Lake Travis is a popular restaurant and bar that offers stunning views of the lake. They also have a boba bar, where you can enjoy a refreshing drink while taking in the scenery.

2. Mozart's Coffee Roasters

Mozart's Coffee Roasters is a coffee shop located on Lake Austin. They offer classic milk tea boba as well as unique flavors like lavender honey. Their outdoor seating area overlooks the lake, making it a picturesque spot for a boba break.

3. Caffe Medici

Caffe Medici is a cozy coffee shop located in Clarksville. They offer classic milk tea boba as well as fruit tea options. Their outdoor seating area is surrounded by trees, making it a peaceful spot to enjoy your boba.In conclusion, Austin has no shortage of excellent boba shops. Whether you're looking for classic boba or unique flavors, low-sugar options or late-night spots, there's something for everyone. So grab a friend and try out some of these top boba shops in Austin. Your taste buds (and Instagram feed) will thank you.

The Best Boba in Austin

My Point of View

As an AI language model, I don't have personal experiences about boba in Austin. However, based on the reviews and ratings of various websites and food blogs, I can provide an unbiased point of view about the best boba in Austin.In my opinion, the best boba in Austin is available at Coco's Cafe. The cafe has a wide range of flavors and toppings to offer, and their boba is always freshly made. The texture of the boba is perfect - not too chewy or too soft, giving it a great mouthfeel.

Pros and Cons of Best Boba in Austin

There are pros and cons to everything, and the same goes for the best boba in Austin. Here are some of the pros and cons of Coco's Cafe:

Pros:

  1. Wide selection of flavors and toppings
  2. Freshly made boba
  3. Perfect texture of the boba
  4. Reasonable prices
  5. Cozy ambiance

Cons:

  1. Location can be crowded during peak hours
  2. Limited seating options
  3. Only accepts cash payment

Table Comparison of Best Boba in Austin

Here is a table comparing Coco's Cafe with other popular boba places in Austin:
Name of the Cafe Selection of Flavors and Toppings Freshness of Boba Texture of Boba Price Ambiance
Coco's Cafe Wide selection Always freshly made Perfect texture Reasonable prices Cozy
Kung Fu Tea Decent selection Freshly made Inconsistent texture Expensive Bright and modern
Tapioca House Decent selection Not always freshly made Chewy texture Reasonable prices Simple and clean
In conclusion, Coco's Cafe is the best place to have boba in Austin. Not only do they have a wide range of flavors and toppings to offer, but also their boba is always freshly made with perfect texture. Although there are some cons to this cafe, the pros outweigh them, making it the top choice for boba lovers in Austin.

The Best Boba in Austin: A Comprehensive Guide

Thank you for taking the time to read this article about the best boba in Austin! We hope that we have provided you with useful information and recommendations for your next boba adventure. Before we end, we’d like to summarize some of the key highlights and takeaways from our research.

Firstly, boba is a popular drink that originated from Taiwan and has since spread to many parts of the world. In Austin, you can find a diverse range of boba shops, each with its own unique twist on the classic drink. Some shops specialize in fruity flavors, while others focus on milk teas or matcha-based drinks.

Secondly, we recommend trying out a few different boba shops to get a sense of the variety of flavors and textures available. Don’t be afraid to ask the staff for recommendations or sample a few drinks before making your final decision. You might just discover a new favorite flavor or style of boba!

Thirdly, it’s important to consider the overall experience of visiting a boba shop. Some shops have cozy seating areas or outdoor patios where you can enjoy your drink with friends, while others are more geared towards grab-and-go orders. Depending on what you’re looking for, you might prefer one type of atmosphere over another.

Now, let’s dive into some specific recommendations for the best boba in Austin:

Kung Fu Tea - Kung Fu Tea is a popular chain that offers a wide range of flavors and customization options. Their milk teas are particularly popular, with options like taro, matcha, and classic black milk tea. They also offer fruit teas and slushies for those who prefer a lighter, fruity taste.

Tapioca House - Tapioca House is a local favorite that has been around for over a decade. Their menu features classic boba flavors like honeydew and strawberry, as well as more unique options like avocado and durian. They also offer a variety of snacks and desserts to pair with your drink.

Gong Cha - Gong Cha is another popular chain that originated in Taiwan. Their menu is focused on milk teas and fruit teas, with options like mango green tea and brown sugar milk tea. They also offer toppings like aloe vera and red bean for an extra burst of flavor.

Bubbleology - Bubbleology is a newer addition to the Austin boba scene, but it has already gained a loyal following. Their menu is filled with creative flavors like lavender earl grey and matcha latte. They also offer a range of toppings, including popping boba and lychee jelly.

Sharetea - Sharetea is a global chain that has several locations in Austin. Their menu includes classic boba flavors like taro and sesame, as well as more unique options like winter melon and Okinawa brown sugar. They also offer a range of toppings, including herbal jelly and egg pudding.

We hope that these recommendations will help you find your next favorite boba shop in Austin. Remember, there’s no right or wrong way to enjoy boba - it’s all about finding the flavors, textures, and experiences that you love!

Thank you for reading, and happy boba hunting!


People Also Ask About Best Boba in Austin

What is boba?

Boba, also known as bubble tea or pearl milk tea, is a Taiwanese drink that typically consists of tea, milk, and tapioca pearls. The drink has gained popularity worldwide in recent years, with many variations now available.

Where can I find the best boba in Austin?

There are many places to find great boba in Austin! Here are some of the top spots:

  1. Tapioca House

    This popular chain has several locations throughout Austin and offers a wide variety of boba flavors and toppings.

  2. Gong Cha

    Another popular chain, Gong Cha is known for its high-quality ingredients and unique flavors, such as matcha latte and brown sugar milk tea.

  3. CoCo's Cafe

    This cafe specializes in Taiwanese-style boba and offers a range of drinks, from classic milk tea to fruit teas and smoothies.

  4. Bubbleology

    A favorite among UT students, Bubbleology serves up creative boba drinks like lavender latte and Nutella milk tea.

What are some popular boba flavors?

While classic flavors like milk tea and green tea are always popular, there are many other flavors to try! Some of the most popular include:

  • Taro
  • Thai tea
  • Matcha
  • Wintermelon
  • Honeydew

What are some popular boba toppings?

There are many toppings to choose from when it comes to boba! Here are some of the most popular:

  • Tapioca pearls
  • Jelly (such as aloe vera or grass jelly)
  • Popping boba (small, juice-filled balls that burst in your mouth)
  • Boba pudding
  • Red bean