Thirsty for a refreshing sip of the world-famous bubble tea (珍珠奶茶)? You’ve come to the right place! Bubble tea, also known as bubble milk tea, boba tea, or pearl milk tea, is a popular tea drink originated in Taiwan that combines chewy tapioca pearls and milk tea, so tasty that it became a worldwide phenomenon. For anyone visiting Taiwan, tasting a cup of bubble tea is a must-have experience that’ll leave you craving for more. From the history of bubble tea to the top 10 bubble tea shops you must try, here is your ultimate guide to bubble tea, one of Taiwan’s finest offers to the world!
Origin of Bubble Tea
According to a CNN report, the birth of bubble tea can be traced back to the 1940s, when Taiwanese mixologist Chang Fan Shu opened a tea shop where he shook tea with cocktail shakers, resulting in a rich, smooth tea with air bubbles on top. Chang’s hand-shaken tea (手搖茶) was a revolutionary invention since it was uncommon to serve tea cold at the time when Taiwan was under Japanese rule in World War II.
The Birthplace of Bubble Tea: Chun Shui Tang or Hanlin Tea Room?
Who invented the bubble tea that we came to know? The answer to this question involves two well-known brands, Chun Shui Tang (春水堂) and Hanlin Tea Room (翰林茶館), both claim to be the original creators of this iconic drink. Lin Hsiu-Hui, the product development director at Chun Shui Tang, says she accidentally combined tapioca pearls with iced milk tea in 1987, resulting in the world’s first bubble tea. On the other hand, Hanlin Tea Room’s founder, Tu Tsung-Ho, claims that he invented the first bubble tea a year earlier in 1986.
Chun Shui Tang and Hanlin Tea Room had a decade-long legal battle for the title of “original bubble tea inventor.” In the end, the court ruled that bubble tea is an innovative form of beverage, not a patented product, therefore neither party could obtain a patent.
The Many Names of Bubble Tea
Bubble tea goes by many names around the world. In Taiwan, it’s often called “pearl milk tea (珍珠奶茶)” because of the chewy tapioca balls that resemble pearls. In other countries, it’s commonly called “boba tea” or just “boba,” a nickname of Hong Kong movie star Amy Yip, meaning “champion of breasts,” referencing the round and bouncy texture of the tapioca pearls.
Fun Facts about Bubble Tea
How much do you know about bubble tea? Beyond its origins and quirky names, there is still more to learn about this beloved drink! Let’s dive into some fun facts about bubble tea that you might not know yet!
April 30th is National Bubble Tea Day
National Bubble Tea Day is celebrated every April 30th, a day in which boba lovers indulge in their favorite bubble tea flavors to honor the iconic Taiwanese drink that has taken the world by storm.
“Latte” or “Au Lait” Means Fresh Milk
You might know “Latte” as an Italian coffee drink, but in the world of bubble tea, “Latte” or “Au Lait” refers to fresh milk, whereas “milk tea” indicates the drink contains creamer and tea.
Even McDonald’s Served Bubble Tea
Can you imagine having a hamburger with bubble tea? In 2012, 800 McCafé stores in Germany rolled out the Bubble Tea series in their menu. Customers were given three tea options: black, green, or white tea, along with seven flavors of syrup and six flavors of tapioca balls or jelly cubes to make their unique bubble tea.
How Much is Milk Tea in Taiwan?
- Low Price: Affordable Options at Convenience Stores
For a quick and budget-friendly milk tea fix, check out convenience stores like 7-Eleven, FamilyMart, Hi-Life, or OKmart. You can grab a regular-sized milk tea for just NT$30 to NT$50 (less than US$2), making it an easy choice when you need a quick break during a busy day.
- Mid Price: Variety and Customization at Chain Stores
Chain stores like 50 Lan (50嵐) and Ching Shin Fu Quan (清心福全) offer fresh, hand-shaken tea with more flavors and toppings, with drinks priced between NT$40 and NT$70 (US$1.30 to US$2.30). These stores let you personalize your drink with options like boba, milk foam, or coconut jelly, giving you the perfect balance of variety and value.
- High Price: Premium Experience at Specialty Tea Shops
For a more indulgent experience, try premium tea shops like ASW TEA HOUSE or SENTO Kampo Tea (仙島), where milk tea ranges from NT$150 to NT$500 (US$5 to US$15). These shops use high-quality ingredients, offering a luxurious treat for those who appreciate finely crafted drinks.
Is Taiwanese Milk Tea Healthy?
Is Taiwanese milk tea as healthy as it is delicious? Let’s take a closer look.
- Sugar: The Sweet Trap
Milk tea is often loaded with sugar, especially when topped with chewy pearls. Too much sugar can lead to weight gain and spike blood sugar levels. Thankfully, most shops now let you customize the sweetness, so you can opt for less or no sugar to make it a bit healthier.
- Calories: Higher Than You Think
A cup of milk tea can pack over 300 calories, especially with full-fat milk and boba. If you’re mindful of calories, try switching to low-fat or plant-based milk to enjoy your treat without the guilt.
- Toppings: Boba and Beyond
Boba, or tapioca pearls are primarily made of starch, offering little nutritional value beyond carbohydrates and calories. If you are seeking a lighter, healthier milk tea, you can opt out of the boba or customize the sweetness of your tea.
- Tea: The Silver Lining
The base of milk tea—black, green, or oolong tea—has health benefits like antioxidants that boost metabolism. Opt for low-sugar versions to enjoy these perks without the sugary downsides.
In short, milk tea is a delicious treat, but if you indulge often, paying attention to sugar, milk, and toppings can keep it both healthy and tasty. With a few tweaks, you can have the best of both worlds!
10 Best Ranked Bubble Tea Shops in Taiwan
Looking for the best bubble tea in Taiwan? Check out our list of the 10 best bubble tea shops that you must try!
Top Ranked Bubble Milk Tea #1 Chun Shui Tang (春水堂)
Source: Chun Shui Tang
Founded by Mr. Liu Han-Chieh in 1983, Chun Shui Tang is credited to be the birthplace of bubble tea. Mr. Liu revolutionized Taiwan’s tea culture by shaking tea using a cocktail shaker, transforming traditional hot tea into sweet iced tea. Today, Chun Shui Tang continues to serve a diverse menu of tea-based drinks and authentic Taiwanese dishes.
Must Try – Recommendations for the Best Selling Drinks:
Bubble Milk Tea (珍珠奶茶), Uva Black Tea (頂級烏瓦紅茶凍飲), and 麵茶粉粿拿鐵 (Roasted Wheat Flour Tea Latte with Jelly Cake)
⇨ Chun Shui Tang’s bubble tea stores in Taiwan
Top Ranked Bubble Milk Tea #2 50 Lan 50嵐
Source: 50 Lan
As one of Taiwan’s most beloved bubble tea brands, 50 Lan boasts over 600 stores across the island, each serving up a menu of drinks that are sure to delight. With plenty of customization options such as adding bobas, pearls, or coconut jelly as toppings, there’s no doubt you’ll discover your new favorite drink here!
Must Try – Recommendations for the Best Selling Drinks:
No.8 Green Tea (八冰綠), Four Season Tea (四季春), and Yakult Green Tea (多多綠)
⇨ 50 Lan’s bubble tea stores in Taiwan
Top Ranked Bubble Milk Tea #3 Ten Ren Tea 天仁茗茶
Source: Ten Ren Tea
Founded in 1953, Ten Ren Tea is a beloved heritage brand in Taiwan. Known for its quality tea leaves and premium ingredients, Ten Ren successfully blends traditional Taiwanese tea culture with modern bubble tea twists. Whether you’re in the mood for a classic black tea or an exotic fruit tea blend, Ten Ren has something to satisfy every tea lover’s palate.
Must Try – Recommendations for the Best Selling Drinks:
Black Tea Latte with Pearls (珍珠鮮奶茶), Dark Oolong Milk Tea (炟客奶茶), and 913 King’s Oolong Tea (913茶王)
⇨ Ten Ren Tea’s bubble tea stores in Taiwan
Top Ranked Bubble Milk Tea #4 Guiji 龜記茗品
Source: Guiji
Guiji may not be the biggest name in Taiwan’s tea scene, but it has quickly won the hearts of the locals with its creative and flavorful tea blends since opening. Many tea lovers cite it as the hidden gem of Taiwanese bubble tea, doesn’t that sound enticing?
Must Try – Recommendations for the Best Selling Drinks:
Grapefruit Green Tea (紅柚翡翠), Passion Fruit with Black Tea (百香紅茶), and Red Oolong Milk tea with Pearls (紅烏鮮乳加珍珠)
⇨ Guiji’s bubble tea stores in Taiwan
Top Ranked Bubble Milk Tea #5 KEBUKE Tea Co. 可不可熟成紅茶
Source: KEBUKE Tea Co.
Craving a tea that’s rich, deep, and sophisticated? KEBUKE Tea Co. is famous for its matured black tea (熟成紅茶) and white tapioca pearls. Fun fact: the name KEBUKE is inspired by the friendly Taiwanese greeting, “渴不渴?” (“Are you thirsty?”), a perfect symbol of the welcoming spirit of Taiwan.
Must Try – Recommendations for the Best Selling Drinks:
Bubble milk tea with white jade tapioca bobas (白玉歐蕾), Green Tea with Winter Melon (春芽冷露), and Peach Black Tea (胭脂紅茶)
⇨ Kebuke’s bubble tea stores in Taiwan
Top Ranked Bubble Milk Tea #6 Ching Shin Fu Quan 清心福全
Source: Ching Shin Fu Quan
Founded in Tainan City in 1987, Ching Shin Fu Quan is the go-to name for Taiwan bubble tea! Beyond the signature Pearl Milk Tea, Ching Shin’s refreshing Plum Green Tea and Yogurt Green Tea are also love at first sip! If you are feeling bold, try Red Bull with Black Tea for a quick energy boost!
Must Try – Recommendations for the Best Selling Drinks:
Plum Green Tea (梅子綠茶), Ice Cream Black Tea (冰淇淋紅茶), and Red Bull with Black Tea (紅牛能量紅茶)
⇨ Ching Shin Fu Quan’s bubble tea stores in Taiwan
Top Ranked Bubble Milk Tea #7 Truedan 珍煮丹
Source: Truedan
Founded in 2000 at Shilin Night Market, Truedan is renowned for its hand-cooked brown sugar, offering a rich, caramelized flavor that’s hard to beat. Try Truedan’s Brown Sugar Bubble with Milk if you are a fan of brown sugar aromas, and Bu Chi Chun Tea for a lightly roasted, sweet aftertaste.
Must Try – Recommendations for the Best Selling Drinks:
Brown Sugar Bubble with Milk (黑糖珍珠鮮奶), Black Tea with Roasted Buckwheat (老派蕎麥), and Bu Chi Chun Tea (不知春)
⇨ Truedan’s bubble tea stores in Taiwan
Top Ranked Bubble Milk Tea #8 Wanpo Tea Shop 萬波島嶼紅茶
Source: Wanpo Tea Shop
Originating from Taichung City, Wanpo Tea Shop is a must-visit for tea enthusiasts with its diverse menu of Taiwanese beverages, from creamy milk teas to seasonal creations. Be sure to try their standout Red Bean Jelly Milk and Sugar Cane Jinxuan Oolong—tea drinks with unique Taiwanese flavors that will transport you to the founder’s childhood memories of living in the military village.
Must Try – Recommendations for the Best Selling Drinks:
Red Bean Jelly Milk (紅豆粉粿鮮奶), Apple Iced Tea (紅蘋島嶼), and Sugar Cane Jinxuan Oolong (埔里甘蔗青)
⇨ Wanpo Tea Shop’s bubble tea stores in Taiwan
Top Ranked Bubble Milk Tea #9 Nap Tea 再睡五分鐘
Source: Nap Tea
Nap Tea, the brainchild of YouTuber Crown Du, has become a go-to spot for Taiwan’s trendy tea lovers. With its carefully selected milk and tea leaves bursting with floral and fruity aromas, Nap Tea is best known for its Tea with Milk Cap, Au Lait, and Fruit Tea series.
Must Try – Recommendations for the Best Selling Drinks:
Black Tea Latte (日安紅歐蕾), Jasmine Green Tea with Milk Cap (棉被午茉綠), and Fresh Milk with Taro Balls and Taro Purée (香芋啵啵)
⇨ Nap Tea’s bubble tea stores in Taiwan
Top Ranked Bubble Milk Tea #10 Macu Tea 麻古茶坊
Source: Macu Tea
Founded in 2008 in Kaohsiung, Macu Tea stands out with its creative “Drinking Dessert” line, blending tea with dessert in unique treats like Mango Pomelo Sago and Grape Cheese Slushy. Feeling adventurous? Dive into Macu’s Cheese Tea Collection for a delightful tea and cheese combo that will surely surprise you!
Must Try – Recommendations for the Best Selling Drinks:
Mango Pomelo Sago (楊枝甘露), Jinxuan Cheese Tea with Bubble and Coconut Jelly (芝芝金萱雙Q), and Grape Cheese Slushy (芝芝葡萄果粒)
⇨ Macu Tea’s bubble tea stores in Taiwan
How to Order Bubble Tea Like a Local Taiwanese
Taiwanese love bubble tea not just for its taste and variety, but because it symbolizes the spirit of tradition and innovation of Taiwanese food culture. Ready to try your first bubble tea? Keep in mind these tips to order bubble tea like a local!
Sweetness Levels: Most shops offer different levels of sweetness. Opt for less sweet if you prefer a more authentic tea flavor.
Ice Levels: Adjust the amount of ice to your liking, with options ranging from no ice to extra ice.
Toppings: Beyond tapioca pearls, try adding pudding, grass jelly, or aloe for a different texture.
Make the Best of Your Bubble Tea Experience in Taiwan
From the birthplace of bubble tea at Chun Shui Tang to the creative flavors at Macu Tea, Taiwan’s bubble tea scene has something for everyone.
If you’re planning a visit to Taiwan, enjoying bubble tea is just one of the many experiences you shouldn’t miss. At Home Sweet Home Share House, we provide comfortable, affordable, and community-oriented housing options for travelers, students, and young professionals. Staying with us means you’re not only getting a great place to live but also gaining easy access to the heart of Taiwan’s vibrant culture—including its famous bubble tea scene.
Explore the best of Taiwan, sip on some amazing bubble tea, and make your stay memorable with Home Sweet Home Share House. We look forward to welcoming you to your home away from home!
