As parents to teenagers, we are constantly on the lookout for fun and exciting activities to do with them and lately, grabbing a bubble tea together has been a hit. We’ll take a look at some of the top places to get bubble tea in the UK, so you can take your big kids out for some too.
In the past few years, bubble tea has been taking the UK by storm, and it’s the perfect way to bond with your kids while discovering the city’s most colourful and Instagram-worthy spots. My own teens can’t get enough of this delightful drink, and we’ve made it our mission to find the best places in town to enjoy this trendy beverage.
So, join me on this bubbly adventure as we explore the coolest bubble tea hotspots in London, including some hidden gems in Chinatown and the ones that are all the rage on TikTok!
What is Bubble Tea?
Before we dive into our bubble tea adventures, let’s take a quick look at what bubble tea actually is. Bubble tea, also known as pearl milk tea, boba tea, or tapioca tea, originated in Taiwan in the 1980s.
It’s a sweet, refreshing drink that usually combines brewed tea leaves (black, green, or oolong) with milk, sugar, and chewy tapioca pearls. The pearls, which are made from tapioca starch, are what give bubble tea its distinctive, bubbly texture.
These days, bubble tea has evolved to include a myriad of flavours, toppings, and even tea-free options like fruit juices and slushies.
The versatility and creativity of bubble tea are part of what makes it so popular, especially among teenagers who love to experiment with new and exciting flavour combinations.
Top Places for Bubble Tea in London
So, now you know what to expect, here are a few great places to check out in London for Bubble tea…
- Biju Bubble Tea – Soho, South Kensington, Shoreditch or Camden
Our first stop is Biju Bubble Tea, with locations across London. This cosy spot has quickly become one of our family’s favourite places to indulge in bubble tea. They use high-quality tea leaves, which makes a huge difference in the taste.
They offer a vast array of flavours to choose from, including Milo chocolate dinosaur or matcha strawberry latte. You can also customise with vegan non dairy options.
- Cuppacha – Chinatown
Chinatown is home to some of the most delicious Asian cuisine in London, so it’s no surprise that you can find some fantastic bubble tea spots here.
Cuppacha is a must-visit for any bubble tea enthusiast. With its vibrant décor and cheerful staff, it’s no wonder this place is a hit on TikTok. The ombre bubble tea is a must for me because of the gorgeous colours, and the Oreo mix is a hit with my teenagers – because Oreos…
- Yifang
Yifang has its roots in Taiwan, the birthplace of bubble tea, so you know you’re in for a treat. Located across London with branches in China Town, Covent Garden, Bloomsbury and beyond this trendy shop offers an extensive menu of traditional and inventive flavours.
One of their most popular options is the Fruit Tea series, which combines fresh fruit with top-notch tea leaves, creating a refreshing and thirst-quenching drink perfect for a sunny day out in London. And if you’re feeling adventurous, why not try their limited-edition specials that often feature seasonal ingredients?
- Happy Lemon
Another Chinatown gem, Happy Lemon, is famous for its unique Salted Cheese series. Yes, you read that right – salted cheese! This might sound unusual, but trust me, the combination of the savoury cheese foam and the sweet tea creates an unforgettable taste sensation.
Happy Lemon can be found not only in London, but also Manchester, Liverpool, Birmingham and beyond so if you’re more up north then it’s still easy to pop in.
Plus, their adorable mascot, the Happy Lemon, is just too cute to resist!
- Mooboo – Camden Market
A trip to Camden market is always a fun outing with kids, and a great spot to get all kinds of insta worthy and TikTok viral snacks.
For a truly authentic bubble tea experience, Mooboo in Camden Market is the place to be. With a vast array of flavours and toppings to choose from, you can customize your drink to your heart’s content.
Their Taro Milk Tea is a crowd favourite, and the colourful purple hue makes for a stunning photo. The market’s lively atmosphere adds to the overall experience, making it the perfect spot for a family day out.
DIY Bubble Tea Adventure
If you’re keen on bringing the bubble tea fun to your own home, why not try making it yourself? You can easily order high-quality tea leaves and other ingredients online to create your own customized bubble tea concoctions. It’s a great way to bond with your kids and experiment with new flavour combinations.
Plus, you can control the sweetness and ingredients, so it’s perfect for parents who prefer healthier options for their family. For all your bubble tea essentials, check out taipec.com – they have everything you need to get started on your DIY bubble tea journey!
London is a bubble tea lover’s paradise, with a plethora of amazing spots to choose from. Whether you’re exploring the bustling streets of Chinatown, soaking up the atmosphere in Camden Market, or discovering hidden gems in Soho and Covent Garden, there’s a bubble tea spot for everyone.
So, grab your teenagers and embark on a colourful, tasty, and super fun bubble tea escapade across London. It’s the perfect way to spend quality time together while indulging in one of the trendiest beverages around. Happy sipping!
