We’ve seen plenty of food and drink trends come and go over the years, but bubble tea has proven it has staying power. Also known as boba tea, the Taiwanese drink first gained popularity in the 1980s. On April 30, tapioca pearl lovers and bubble tea fans alike will celebrate National Bubble Tea Day.
For those unfamiliar with bubble tea, the drink was originally made by mixing iced tea with chewy tapioca pearls. In the 1990s, milk was added to many recipes, helping the drink grow in popularity across East and Southeast Asia. The names “bubble tea” and “boba” come from two different features of the drink: the bubbly foam created when the tea is shaken and the tapioca pearls themselves. The pearls, made from cassava root, are typically soaked in brown sugar before being added to tea, milk, and sweeteners.
One of the region’s most recognizable bubble tea chains is Taichi Bubble Tea, which also has locations in Gambrills and Severna Park. Founded in 2015, the chain has expanded to more than 50 locations. In addition to bubble tea, the menu includes fruit teas, poke bowls, sushi, ramen, and burritos. Customers can customize their drinks with a variety of flavors and toppings.
Located inside Westfield Annapolis, Kokee Tea offers an extensive menu featuring milk teas, fruit teas, signature drinks, and cold brew beverages with boba. Flavors range from classic honey and coffee to more unique options like coconut, strawberry, and Oreo. The shop also serves blended drinks that combine the texture of a milkshake with an icy treat.
Sweet Bamboo Boba, Maryland’s first DIY bubble tea shop, recently opened a new location in Severna Park after finding success in Silver Spring. The shop currently features specialty drinks inspired by the “K-Pop Demon Hunters” trend. Its signature teas are plant-based and dairy-free, offering options for a wide range of customers. The menu includes creative flavors such as Dubai Chocolate, Dirty Blueberry, Strawberry Lavender Matcha, and Matcha KitKat, along with sparkling teas, smoothies, slushies, and customizable drinks.
In Gambrills, Kung Fu Tea has become a popular stop for bubble tea fans. The shop recently launched a collaboration with Care Bears featuring specialty drinks inspired by different characters and moods. It has also introduced protein slushes for customers looking for a higher-protein option. The menu includes dozens of milk teas, fruit drinks, matcha beverages, and dairy-free options.
As temperatures begin to rise, bubble tea can be a refreshing way to cool off while trying something a little different.
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