Boba is known for being a sweet and creamy beverage and a good drink to quench your thirst. Usually referred to as traditional tea, combined with milk and served chilled. Also known as bubble tea, it has become the people’s favourite worldwide. It originated from Taiwan in the early 1980s and has taken the world by storm and has not subsided even after many years.
With its undying popularity, countries located in North America and Europe have followed up with the trend. With the many variations and unique concoctions that are popping up with each new bubble tea stall, it is safe to say that each country has their very own boba scene that is worth a visit when restrictions get lifted even more.
1) Taiwan
If boba lovers are being asked to visit Taiwan, they will not hesitate to agree to this trip. As it was mentioned before, boba originated from Taiwan and hence, the trip would be more similar to a field trip. Check out the origins of how boba came to be in our other article! You will be able to find boba stores occupying most spaces throughout the streets of Taiwan offering a variety of hot and cold options to suit the weather. For a list of bubble tea shops you should check out in Taiwan, see this list here.
2) Japan
Liu Han-Chien, who created this worldwide phenomenon, took inspiration from a cold drink served to him while he was visiting Japan back then. It was not a surprise that the drink has also gained popularity in the land of the rising sun. Riding a huge tapioca wave, you can even find bubble tea at all convenience stores, making it easy to grab and go whenever you’re feel the itch! Check out these bubble tea shops in Tokyo, as well as some tapioca desserts that have joined the scene here in Japan!
3) South Korea
Although most would believe that the Koreans prefer their coffee rather than tea, the streets of South Korea does have its fair share of boba as well. The delightful tea-based drink complete with chewy tapioca pearls, is not a scarce commodity here in Korea and can be found in the popular streets of Seoul. Check out this list for the top ten bubble tea in South Korea.
4) China
It will not be a surprise that you’ll find some of the best bubble tea in China. The history of tea dates back to ancient China, almost 5,000 years ago and we are almost sure that you can find more bubble tea stores than Starbucks. You would probably lose count along the way like us, but you can find them on every corner of a major street as well as in various shopping malls. Here are some of the most popular Chinese milk tea brands that you should know of.
5) United Kingdom
With the ever-growing boba scene, the highly customizable drinks have gained a serious popularity in London as well. The British is well known for appreciating tea and boba no doubt is well received by many in the United Kingdom. With a series of unique flavour profiles to suit their palates, bubble tea stores can be located all throughout the country, so check out this London guide to the best bubble tea shops you can find when you visit.
6) Australia
The bubble tea craze has taken over Australia as well and the Aussies are more than happy to embrace the trend. They have an ever-growing list of boba shops in the country ranging from mega chains and traditional taiwanese operators to homegrown shops. If you choose to visit the land down under, check out this list for the top ten bubble tea shops in Sydney that you can find.
Maybe after the whole pandemic ends, we can all go on a much needed trip and visit these countries to experience their boba scene for ourselves. In the end, you may even be inspired to start a bubble tea store when you come back.
This article was brought to you by Williek.
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