14 Best bubble tea in New York City
Bubble tea, a popular Taiwanese beverage, has made a significant impact in New York City's bustling food scene. With its unique combination of chewy tapioca pearls, tea, and various flavors, bubble tea in New York City has become a favorite among locals and tourists alike. From traditional milk teas to fruity options and even instagrammable varieties, the variety of bubble tea in New York City is vast and constantly evolving.
1. I’Milky 沐白 - Midtown
Pure joy, pure ingredients in every sip

The classic milk tea at this establishment is truly exceptional. The tea's robust flavor is sure to satisfy any tea lover, while the chewy bubbles provide a delightful contrast in texture. It's clear that great care has been taken in the preparation of this beverage, as both the tea and bubbles are perfectly balanced.
Another standout menu item is the brown sugar bubble milk. This drink is surprisingly nuanced, with a rich and satisfying flavor that is neither too sweet nor too subtle. The bubbles in this drink are equally impressive, with a delightful chew that adds an enjoyable textural element to each sip. Overall, this is a must-try for anyone who appreciates a well-made bubble milk tea.
TOPICS
- Fusion Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Downtown Spots
Relate link
2. King Bubble Tea

TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
Relate link
3. Tiger Sugar
Famous for its 'tiger stripes' design in drinks.

Tiger Sugar, a renowned bubble tea company, has perfected the art of creating the delectable black sugar bubble tea. Despite numerous attempts by various companies to replicate their unique taste, Tiger Sugar's methods have stood the test of time. Their secret lies in their meticulous 8-hour preparation process for cooking syrups and tapioca pearls, resulting in a distinct flavor that keeps customers coming back for more.
The black sugar bubble tea at Tiger Sugar is an exceptional beverage that has gained global recognition and acclaim. The drink offers a rich caramel-like flavor that tantalizes the taste buds, leaving customers craving for more. It is highly recommended for anyone who seeks to indulge in a delightful treat. With such a delicious blend of flavors, it is no surprise that Tiger Sugar's bubble milk tea has garnered a loyal following and a reputation for being one of the best in the world.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Downtown Spots
- Late Night
4. BIAO Sugar
Grab your drink through the tiger's mouth!

The matcha jasmine latte from this establishment is a must-try for matcha lovers. The balance of flavors is exceptional, with a sweetness that is present but not overwhelming. The ratios of sugar and ice are carefully considered, and non-dairy milk options are available for those who prefer them.
Bubble tea fans will be delighted with the flavorful brown sugar-based options at this shop. Despite its small size and lack of seating, the establishment's service is commendable. The tea is not overly sweet, which is a refreshing change from some bubble teas that can be overly saccharine. Overall, the tea's delightful taste makes up for the lack of seating.
TOPICS
- Fusion Cuisine
- Vegan Options
- Cheap Eats
- Downtown Spots
Relate link
5. Shiny Tea
Bringing authentic Taiwanese bubble tea to NYC!

Shiny Tea is a delightful establishment that specializes in providing authentic tea and bubble tea. The tea offered at this establishment is brewed to perfection, with a variety of options such as Honey Green Tea, Grapefruit Premium Green Tea, and Jasmine Green Tea. The staff, including knowledgeable baristas, are readily available to guide customers through the menu and assist in selecting the perfect drink.
Shiny Tea is a favorite bubble tea destination, and the recent addition of a new location in the Upper West Side has created excitement. The Taiwanese tea served at this establishment is authentic and freshly brewed, with a unique offering of mini white pearls as a refreshing alternative to traditional boba or black pearls. The quality and convenience of this establishment have made it a dangerous yet enjoyable addition to the neighborhood.
TOPICS
- Fusion Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
Relate link
6. Solely Tea
NYC's first sneaker & boba shop featuring streetwear & art.

Bubble tea aficionados will be thrilled with the offerings at Solely Tea. The establishment is known for its diverse range of flavors and high-quality ingredients, setting it apart from other bubble tea locations.
The friendly and attentive staff at Solely Tea contribute to its stellar reputation. They are knowledgeable about the menu and always ready to offer suggestions to help customers make the perfect selection. The tea is consistently fresh and flavorful, ensuring a satisfying and enjoyable bubble tea experience.
TOPICS
- Fusion Cuisine
- Vegan Options
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
Relate link
7. Mi Tea
Trendy bubble tea with unique cheese foam.

This bubble tea establishment is a must-visit for fans of the popular drink. The shop offers a variety of unique and interesting concoctions that are sure to satisfy any palate. The service is an unexpected pleasure, with staff going above and beyond to provide excellent customer service. They are knowledgeable about the menu and provide solid recommendations for those who are unsure of what to order.
Overall, the friendly staff and nice drinks collection make this a bubble tea place worth visiting again. The shop's unique and interesting concoctions set it apart from other bubble tea establishments. The staff's willingness to help and provide recommendations adds to the positive experience. Those looking for a nice bubble tea shop should definitely consider giving this place a try.
TOPICS
- Fusion Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Cheap Eats
- Breakfast
8. Gong Cha
Tea Fit for Royalty.

The bubble tea shop in K-town is known for its speedy and amiable service, as well as clean and appealing interiors. However, while most customers have had positive experiences with prompt drink preparation and friendly staff, there have been some isolated incidents where certain drinks were not available and the quality of the beverages varied.
For instance, the Yogurt Green Tea with White Pearl is a popular choice, and the fact that there are numerous options and customization features, such as choosing your ice and sugar level, is commendable. The Wintermelon with Fresh Milk is another drink that has received good feedback, although it can be overly milky and sweet for some. Overall, the variety and customization options are a big plus for this establishment.
TOPICS
- Fusion Cuisine
- Asian Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Downtown Spots
9. ViVi Bubble Tea
Experience authentic Taiwanese bubble tea in NYC.

Vivi Bubble Tea has received high praise from many customers, with an impressive rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars and 658 reviews. Among the popular choices, the coffee jelly bubble milk tea stands out for its well-balanced flavor profile. This drink provides a unique combination of smooth, rich coffee flavors and the delightful texture of chewy coffee jelly.
What makes this beverage particularly enjoyable is the contrast in textures it offers. Each sip guarantees an exciting burst of real boba pearls that are perfectly cooked and pleasantly chewy. These contrast with the smooth coffee components and the bouncy, jiggly coffee jelly. As an added bonus, customization options allow drinkers to adjust the sweetness level according to their preference, enhancing an already enjoyable experience. Overall, Vivi Bubble Tea's coffee jelly bubble milk tea is a true crowd-pleaser that successfully combines taste and texture.
TOPICS
- Fusion Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
Relate link
10. Panda Bubble Tea
Unique flavors and quick grab-and-go service.

A selection of drinks is offered for customers to quickly grab and take with them. Many guests have expressed their satisfaction with the assortment of drink options available. Among the offerings, the Taro-flavored drink is a standout, consistently receiving high praise. Its unique taste is said to be unmatched, setting it apart from other bubble tea establishments.
The Taro drink's one-of-a-kind flavor has been singled out for its exceptional quality. Its taste is described as being much more satisfying compared to similar drinks at other bubble tea establishments. This has led some guests to specifically seek out this establishment for the Taro-flavored drink, cementing its reputation as a fan favorite. Overall, the drink offerings, particularly the Taro flavor, are well-received by customers who value variety and quality.
TOPICS
- Fusion Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Vegan Options
- Downtown Spots
11. KungFu Tea
Made-to-order beverages with real Kung Fu.

Bubble tea enthusiasts will be thrilled with the offerings at this establishment. The wide selection of flavors ensures that there is something for everyone, and the tapioca pearls are consistently chewy and delicious. Overall, the bubble tea experience here is top-notch.
Freshness is a top priority at this bubble tea spot. Drinks are made-to-order, allowing for maximum freshness and customization. The care and attention to detail that goes into each drink is evident, resulting in a high-quality bubble tea experience. Lovers of bubble tea won't be disappointed.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Asian Cuisine
- Mid-Range
Relate link
12. GongCha
Premium bubble tea with fast and friendly service.

Service at this establishment is generally efficient and cordial, garnering positive feedback from many patrons. The staff members are commended for their attentiveness and willingness to assist customers in a timely manner.
However, there have been inconsistencies in the delivery experience. Some customers have reported receiving prompt and proficient service, while others have encountered difficulties such as incorrect orders and even impolite behavior from delivery personnel. These discrepancies in service quality may warrant further attention to ensure consistency in the customer experience.
TOPICS
- Fusion Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
- Mid-Range
Relate link
13. Chun Yang Tea
Authentic Taiwanese bubble tea experience.

Traditional Bubble Tea offers a delightful experience with their Cold Honey Osmanthus Oolong Tea. Priced at $7.50, this popular drink showcases a unique Osmanthus Flowery flavor that is both refreshing and invigorating. The perfect option for tea enthusiasts who appreciate the traditional taste of bubble tea.
The staff at Traditional Bubble Tea is constantly evolving, but not due to any negative reasons. In fact, this establishment is growing and becoming more impressive by the day. With great management and a welcoming atmosphere, every visit to Traditional Bubble Tea promises to be an enjoyable one. The staff's dedication to their craft and commitment to providing excellent service is evident in every cup of tea they serve.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Cheap Eats
- Downtown Spots
Relate link
14. Teazzi Tea Shop
Keep calm and drink tea!

This boba shop in NYC is a must-visit for tea lovers. Their tea is bold and full-flavored, distinguishing them from competitors. The quality of their drinks and tapioca is exceptional, securing their place among the city's best boba establishments.
For a unique and delightful boba experience, order their house special milk tea. It features oats, adding an innovative twist to the traditional boba tea. Remember to shake the drink thoroughly to evenly distribute the oats, ensuring a satisfying and consistent taste in every sip.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Cheap Eats
- Late Night