Top 20 coffee shops in Chinatown Chicago
Discover our curated list of top-ranked coffee shops in Chinatown Chicago, compiled from extensive research across reputable websites and blogs. Explore outstanding options like Kung Fu Tea, TBaar Bubble Tea, Juice, Smoothies, Tsaocaa, Bingo Tea, Daboba. Let's explore together!
- 1. Kung Fu Tea
- 2. TBaar Bubble Tea, Juice, Smoothies
- 3. Tsaocaa
- 4. Bingo Tea
- 5. Daboba
- 6. TIGER SUGAR
- 7. Oriental Tea
- 8. Starbucks
- 9. Uni Uni Bubble Tea 攸攸茶
- 10. China Cafe 开饭
- 11. Matcha En
- 12. Joy Yee Plus
- 13. Partea
- 14. TE'AMO Boba Bar
- 15. AUTEA SWEETS & EATS
- 16. Tasty Place Bakery & Cafe
- 17. Mango Mango Dessert
- 18. Ume Tea
- 19. 岩茶Elitea (Elite Boba)
- 20. Ms Ku's Flowers and Desserts
1. Kung Fu Tea
Popular bubble tea chain with a focus on high-quality tea leaves and unique flavors

Kung Fu Tea is a popular tea shop located in Chicago, Illinois, specifically at 2126 S Archer Ave, #B. They offer a variety of made-to-order tea, milk, and fruit-based beverages. The shop is highly rated on different platforms, with a 3.9-star rating out of 5 on one site based on 55 reviews. They also have a wide selection of drink toppings such as bubbles, beans, jellies, and pudding.
The shop's atmosphere is cozy and welcoming, making it an excellent spot to relax and enjoy a cup of tea. They are open every day from 11 am to 12 am, making it convenient for customers to grab a drink at any time of the day. Kung Fu Tea specializes in healthy food options, including coffee places and juice bars, making it an ideal destination for tea lovers and health-conscious individuals. The shop is also close to other related places such as food and tea spots in the area.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
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2. TBaar Bubble Tea, Juice, Smoothies
Specializes in bubble tea and offers a unique tea-drinking experience

Smoothie enthusiasts will enjoy the wide selection of fruit smoothies offered at this Chinatown location, with prices ranging from $3.50 to $6.00. The large size comes with extra toppings at no additional cost. My orange and mango smoothie was topped with a big scoop of mango slices and a ruby red beet with grass drink. The seating area is spacious, though it lacks plugs for customers to charge their devices. The smoothies are not overly sweet, which I appreciated. I plan to return for a vegetable smoothie.
During our visit, we also tried the bubble tea. The menu featured an array of unique and intriguing beverage options. The atmosphere was pleasant and the establishment was clean. The staff was friendly and accommodating, answering our questions and making recommendations. In addition to the drinks, there were also many delicious-looking desserts available. Overall, it was a positive experience and I would recommend visiting this Chinatown location for bubble tea.
TOPICS
- Fusion Cuisine
- Vegan Options
- Cheap Eats
- Breakfast
3. Tsaocaa
Specialize in traditional Taiwanese tea drinks

Tsaocaa is a wonderful destination for fans of bubble tea and coffee. The coffee selection at Tsaocaa is extensive, and complements their tasty desserts well. If you're in search of a coffee shop experience with a unique twist, Tsaocaa offers a distinctive combination of coffee and tea options that are definitely worth checking out.
In summary, Tsaocaa is an excellent location for bubble tea and coffee enthusiasts. The coffee choices are varied, and pair nicely with their delicious desserts. If you're looking for a comfortable and snug coffee shop atmosphere with a distinctive touch, Tsaocaa provides a unique mix of coffee and tea options that are not to be missed.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Downtown Spots
- Lunch
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4. Bingo Tea
Specialize in boba teas and Asian-inspired drinks

I always recommend the Matcha from this place, as it has consistently been delicious every time I've tried it. The shop is aesthetically pleasing, and the service is efficient. However, my experience with the Pistachio tea was not as enjoyable. In fact, it did not taste like pistachio at all, but rather like almond extract. If this flavor appeals to you, then you may enjoy the drink, but it was not to my liking, and I was unable to finish it.
The Matcha from this establishment is always delicious, and I highly recommend trying it. The shop has a nice atmosphere and the service is quick. Unfortunately, I did not enjoy the Pistachio tea as much. It didn't taste like pistachio, but rather like almond extract. If you like that flavor, you might enjoy this drink. However, it was not to my taste, and I was unable to finish it.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Vegan Options
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5. Daboba

Daboba is a cozy cafe located in Chicago, IL, specializing in a variety of bubble tea and refreshing beverages. The cafe prides itself on using quality ingredients and offering unique flavor combinations, creating a relaxing atmosphere for customers to enjoy their drinks.
During our visit, we tried two drinks: the Kumquat Lemon Seasons Tea, which we recommend getting with 50% sugar instead of the default. The cafe offers a wide selection of boba flavors, and the staff is friendly and welcoming. Daboba is a great place to stay and work, with a comfortable and inviting ambiance.
TOPICS
- Fusion Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Downtown Spots
- Budget-Friendly Eats
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6. TIGER SUGAR
Uses high-quality ingredients and signature brown sugar recipe

Tiger Sugar is a restaurant known for its delicious and generously-portioned food, such as their massive chicken cutlets. The establishment's standout dishes include their fried chicken, which has received high praise from visitors. Although the interior of the restaurant could be cleaner and more organized, the food makes up for it and is a must-visit for anyone who enjoys their offerings, especially those who have tried it at other locations.
As for myself, although I am not a regular consumer of Boba Tea, I have tried a few over the past few months during some recent travels. My initial encounter with Tiger Sugar took place in Toronto, Canada, and I was excited to discover that they had a location in Chicago as well. I am a fan of their sweet Boba tea drinks, which make for a satisfying and enjoyable beverage experience.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Happy Hours
- Downtown Spots
7. Oriental Tea
Small tea shop with a big heart for tea lovers

The drink offerings at this establishment are both refreshing and delicious, with a seasonal ginger rose flavor that is particularly well-suited for colder days. Other drink options are also available, all of which are equally refreshing.
The service at this location is exceptional, with staff who are both friendly and attentive. They go above and beyond to ensure a great customer experience, even saving forgotten items for customers. Their honest and helpful approach adds to the overall positive atmosphere of the establishment.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
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8. Starbucks
Spacious and comfortable seating, convenient location, serves food all day

During a visit to Chicago, I was surprised to see a Starbucks sign written in Chinese in the Chinatown neighborhood. Upon visiting, I found the store to be friendly and clean, although it was small and had limited street parking. The staff at this Starbucks are consistently pleasant, treating customers more like friends than just transactions. They quickly memorize customer's orders and make the drinks exactly to their liking, making it a welcoming and enjoyable environment for regulars.
The Starbucks in Chicago's Chinatown, located at the corner of Cermak Road and Archer Avenue, has a catchy sign in Chinese and a modern, clean interior. While the space is small and street parking is limited, the staff make up for it with their friendly and welcoming attitudes. They go above and beyond to make each customer feel valued, quickly learning their regular orders and preparing their drinks to perfection. This has made it my go-to coffee spot in the city, as I always feel welcomed and satisfied with my visit.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- American Cuisine
- Breakfast
- Dinner
9. Uni Uni Bubble Tea 攸攸茶
Handmade boba with natural ingredients

Uni Uni Bubble Tea is a unique establishment that combines the best elements of a bubble tea shop and a coffee shop, creating an inviting and comfortable atmosphere for its patrons. Whether you're looking to study or socialize, Uni Uni Bubble Tea offers the perfect ambiance to enjoy a delicious drink.
The author enjoys visiting Uni Uni Bubble Tea, describing it as a welcoming blend of a bubble tea shop and a coffee shop. With its cozy ambiance, it's an ideal spot for various activities, from focused studying to catching up with friends, all while savoring a tasty beverage.
TOPICS
- Chinese Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Hidden Gems
10. China Cafe 开饭
Family-owned Chinese restaurant since 1983, popular with locals

China Cafe, located at 2300 S Wentworth Ave in Chicago, offers a delicious complimentary Jasmine tea that is fresh and full of flavor. The restaurant is mostly frequented by local Chinese families who seem to enjoy their dining experience. However, the service can be slow and the ambiance is often loud with only one waitress who appears to be overwhelmed.
Reviews, ratings, hours, phone number, and directions for China Cafe are available. The restaurant is situated in Chicago, IL 60616. While some customers have commented on the slow service and loud ambiance, the Jasmine tea and food have received positive feedback. China Cafe is a Chinese restaurant that offers a range of dishes that cater to different taste preferences.
TOPICS
- Chinese Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Downtown Spots
- Lunch
11. Matcha En
Specialized matcha cafe with ceremonial grade matcha

Matcha En is a dessert shop that specializes in Japanese-inspired treats, offering a variety of matcha-based desserts and drinks. Customers can enjoy a range of options, including ice cream, pastries, and other delights, all made with high-quality matcha. The shop is known for its efficient and friendly service, with staff who are praised for their customer-oriented approach and fast order processing.
During a visit to ChinaTown on a Saturday night, one couple discovered Matcha En and enjoyed the shop's soft serve in cones, which featured a potent and well-balanced matcha flavor. The dessert was a hit with both of them, and the husband also tried the Brown Sugar Milk Tea. The lively atmosphere of the shop, nestled in the busy streets of ChinaTown, added to the overall positive experience.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Dinner
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12. Joy Yee Plus
Family-friendly atmosphere with a vibrant and lively ambiance

Joy Yee Plus is a establishment that offers a unique selection of drinks, including the popular butterfly boba and Oreo bubble waffle. However, it may not provide the typical coffee shop ambiance. Despite this, it boasts a lively atmosphere and offers a range of alternative drink options, such as matcha and bubble tea.
If you're seeking a place with a coffee house vibe, Joy Yee Plus may not meet your expectations. Yet, its distinctive offerings like the butterfly boba and Oreo bubble waffle make it a worthwhile visit. For those looking for alternatives to traditional coffee drinks, Joy Yee Plus provides good options with its matcha and bubble tea selections, all contributing to its fun atmosphere.
TOPICS
- Fusion Cuisine
- Vegan Options
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
13. Partea

The first establishment offers a unique and delightful treat for ice cream lovers, with a customizable combination of ice cream flavors and animal-shaped creations. Popular options include the Cookie Monster and matcha flavors, which have gained a loyal following. The overall quality and presentation of the ice cream have left a lasting impression, making it a strong recommendation for anyone seeking a one-of-a-kind dessert experience.
A second business specializes in equally impressive beverages, specifically boba tea. The Brown Sugar Milk Tea variant has received high praise for its exquisite taste, making it a must-try for boba enthusiasts. In addition to their tea selection, the establishment offers complementary menu items such as egg waffles and ice cream. With the dedication to creating appealing and satisfying desserts, it's no wonder that patrons are already planning return visits to fully explore their offerings.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Dinner
- Downtown Spots
14. TE'AMO Boba Bar
Sustainable and eco-friendly packaging

TE'AMO Boba Bar is a unique coffee shop located in Chinatown, known for its use of organic ingredients and creative coffee-boba combinations. This coffee shop offers a refreshing alternative to traditional coffee houses, with a menu that features a delightful twist on classic boba tea.
If you're a coffee lover looking for something new and exciting, TE'AMO Boba Bar is a must-visit. Their coffee-based drinks, which incorporate traditional boba tea ingredients, are sure to delight your taste buds. This coffee shop's commitment to using organic ingredients sets it apart from other coffee shops, making it a great choice for health-conscious coffee drinkers. Overall, TE'AMO Boba Bar is a hidden gem among coffee shops in Chinatown, and well worth a visit.
TOPICS
- Fusion Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
15. AUTEA SWEETS & EATS

If you're looking for a delicious bubble tea, this is the perfect place to go. Their menu offers various combinations of bubble tea with different flavors, sweetness levels, and toppings, all made with the freshest ingredients for a burst of flavors in every sip and bite.
The dessert at this establishment is also worth trying, especially their signature coconut taro ball with grass jelly and taro ball no. 2. The oat used as a topping complements the dessert well, although the red bean can be a bit too sweet for some. The place is spacious and clean, and the staff are friendly and welcoming, making it an enjoyable dining experience.
TOPICS
- Fusion Cuisine
- Asian Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Lunch
- Dinner
16. Tasty Place Bakery & Cafe

TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Lunch
17. Mango Mango Dessert
Authentic Thai-style desserts with a modern twist

TOPICS
- Fusion Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
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18. Ume Tea
Small tea shop with a relaxing environment, perfect for studying or catching up with friends

TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Breakfast
19. 岩茶Elitea (Elite Boba)
Handcrafted drinks made with high-quality ingredients

TOPICS
- Fusion Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Late Night
20. Ms Ku's Flowers and Desserts

TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Asian Cuisine
- Hidden Gems
- Mid-Range