Taipei, the vibrant capital of Taiwan, is renowned as the birthplace of bubble tea, a globally beloved beverage that has taken the world by storm. Embarking on a bubble tea trip in Taipei is like diving into a sweet and refreshing adventure – exploring the roots of this iconic drink and savoring the diverse modern variations that have emerged.
Here’s a list our highlights for a bubble tea trip in Taipei.
Chun Shui Tang
Our journey begins with a homage to the origins of bubble tea, which traces back to the 1980s in Taichung. The inventor, Lin Hsiu Hui, was working at a teahouse when she decided to experiment with adding sweetened tapioca pearls to traditional milk tea. The result was a delightful concoction that combined the rich flavors of tea with the chewy texture of pearls.
Visiting the site of the first bubble tea creation is a must for any enthusiast. Chun Shui Tang Teahouse, located in Taipei, proudly claims the title of the birthplace of bubble tea. Stepping into this historic teahouse feels like a step back in time, offering a nostalgic atmosphere where the magic of bubble tea first unfolded.
Xin Fun Tang
Xing Fu Tang, one of Taipei’s popular bubble tea chains, is renowned for its signature ‘stir-fried brown sugar pearls’. This innovative preparation method enhances the pearls’ aroma, creating a distinct caramelized flavor that sets it apart from other varieties.
For those seeking a more contemporary experience, The Alley is a stylish bubble tea shop that emphasizes aesthetics as much as taste. Their handcrafted drinks, featuring fresh and high-quality ingredients, have become Instagram sensations, making the experience as visually pleasing as it is delicious.
50 Lan
Founded in 1994, 50lan (also known as 50嵐) has played a pivotal role in popularizing bubble tea not only in Taipei but across Taiwan. Known for its dedication to using high-quality ingredients, 50lan has become a staple for locals and visitors alike. The name “50lan” translates to “50 orchards,” reflecting the brand’s commitment to using fresh and natural flavors.
The menu at 50lan offers a wide array of choices, ranging from classic milk teas to innovative fruit-infused concoctions. One of their signature drinks is the Honeydew Pearl Milk Tea, a refreshing blend of honeydew flavor and chewy tapioca pearls. The franchise’s success lies not only in its flavors but also in its consistent commitment to excellence.
Comebuy
Established in 2002, Comebuy has rapidly expanded its presence globally, making it a recognizable name for bubble tea enthusiasts around the world. With a focus on providing diverse options and a modern ambiance, Comebuy caters to a broad audience. The brand’s commitment to innovation is evident in its seasonal menu offerings, ensuring customers always have something new to explore.
Comebuy’s popularity lies in its ability to strike a balance between tradition and modernity. While offering the classic milk teas that patrons love, the franchise also embraces new trends, introducing creative combinations and toppings to keep the bubble tea experience exciting.
Guiji
Guiji means fruit in Taiwanese. Their fruit drinks are their signature. Lemon or grapefruit are fresh, and star fruits are pickled, yet sour. Guiji, Taiwan’s premier bubble tea and fruit tea brand, is renowned for its unique fruit-infused teas and high-quality ingredients.
Besides the five mentioned above, Taiwan has many more bubble tea shops offering different selections, such as Kebuke, Woo Tea, Milksha (you can directly search for ‘bubble tea’ or ‘珍珠奶茶/波霸奶茶’ on the map to find more!) Some integrate unique flavors from local features, while others bring a novel experience to drinkers through innovative methods, waiting for you to discover and share with us!
A bubble tea trip through Taipei is a delightful excursion for anyone seeking to unravel the history, savor the traditional, and relish the contemporary interpretations of this beloved beverage. From the humble beginnings at Chun Shui Tang Teahouse to the trendy offerings of modern tea shops, Taipei remains the ultimate destination for bubble tea enthusiasts.