Why Taiwan’s Bubble Tea Will Ruin Every Other Drink for You

If you’ve never had bubble tea, you’re missing out on one of life’s greatest joys. And if you have had bubble tea but not in Taiwan, let me be the first to tell you—you haven’t truly lived. Taiwan is the birthplace of this iconic drink, and it’s no exaggeration to say the bubble tea here will ruin all others for you. Once you’ve had it, you’ll measure every other drink against the glorious concoctions Taiwan has perfected.

So buckle up, fellow traveller! Let’s dive into the bubbly, chewy, tea-infused world of Taiwan’s national drink.

What Exactly Is Bubble Tea?

Bubble tea, also known as boba tea or pearl milk tea, is a drink that combines tea (usually black, green, or oolong) with milk or fruit flavouring, sweeteners, and the stars of the show: chewy tapioca balls called pearls. These pearls are made from cassava starch and have a delightfully gummy texture that gives bubble tea its signature appeal.

Oh, and the “bubble” doesn’t actually refer to the tapioca balls! It’s said to come from the frothy bubbles that form when the tea is shaken before being served. Mind blown, right?

If you want more information, checkout the Wikipedia page on Bubble Tea. There you can learn more about the history and different variations!

The Origins of Bubble Tea: A Drink Born in Taiwan

To truly appreciate bubble tea, you’ve got to know where it comes from. Bubble tea was invented in the 1980s in Taiwan. There are two competing stories about its origins, and honestly, both are charming enough to believe.

One version credits Lin Hsiu Hui, a tea house manager in Taichung, who accidentally poured tapioca pudding into her tea during a staff meeting. The combo was so delicious that it was added to the menu—and the rest is history.

The other story comes from Chun Shui Tang, a famous tea house also based in Taichung. The founder, Liu Han-Chieh, is said to have created bubble tea by blending cold milk tea with tapioca pearls as part of an effort to modernise traditional tea culture.

Whichever story you believe, one thing is clear: Taiwan gave the world this magical drink, and we owe it big time.

City skyline of Taipei, the home of bubble tea

Where Can I Find the Best Bubble Tea in Taiwan?

Now, let’s get to the juicy part—where to find the absolute best bubble tea in Taiwan. After all, you didn’t fly all this way for just any cup of tea. Here are some must-visit spots:

1. Chun Shui Tang (春水堂) – Taichung

If you’re a purist and want to sip on bubble tea where it all began, head to Chun Shui Tang in Taichung. This is the OG tea house, and their signature pearl milk tea is as authentic as it gets. Pair it with some Taiwanese snacks for the full experience.

2. Tiger Sugar (老虎堂) – Nationwide

You’ve probably seen Tiger Sugar’s signature brown sugar bubble tea trending on Instagram. Their “Brown Sugar Boba Milk” is rich, sweet, and indulgent. It’s so good, you’ll find yourself willing to wait in line—even in the blazing Taiwan sun.

3. 50 Lan (50嵐) – Nationwide

For a more classic, no-frills experience, 50 Lan is a local favourite. Their tapioca pearls are perfectly chewy, and their tea-to-sweetness ratio is chef’s kiss. Bonus: they have branches everywhere, so you’re never too far from a cup.

4. Koi Thé (原茶) – Taipei and Other Cities

If you prefer a more subtle, tea-forward bubble tea, Koi Thé is your spot. Their Golden Bubble Milk Tea is insanely good, and their pearls are smaller and softer, giving a more delicate texture.

5. Jen Ju Dan (珍煮丹) – Taipei

Jen Ju Dan takes their bubble tea to the next level by making their pearls fresh in-store every day. Their brown sugar boba with fresh milk is a cult favourite, and it’s worth the sugar rush.

Why Taiwanese Bubble Tea Hits Different

Sure, bubble tea is available worldwide now, but there’s something about having it in Taiwan that elevates the experience. Here’s why:

1. Fresh, Handmade Tapioca Pearls

In Taiwan, many shops make their tapioca pearls fresh daily. The difference? Pearls that are perfectly soft yet satisfyingly chewy—none of that hard or soggy nonsense you get elsewhere.

2. Tea That Tastes Like Tea

Taiwan is famous for its high-quality tea, particularly oolong. Bubble tea here doesn’t just rely on sweeteners for flavour; the tea itself is rich and aromatic, making the drink feel balanced and not overly sugary.

3. Endless Flavour Options

From taro to matcha to fruit teas, the variety of flavours in Taiwan is mind-blowing. Want something unique? Try a salted cheese foam topping—don’t knock it till you’ve tried it.

4. The Culture of Bubble Tea

Drinking bubble tea in Taiwan isn’t just about quenching your thirst; it’s a cultural experience. From the bustling night markets to the chic tea cafes, bubble tea is woven into the very fabric of Taiwanese life.

Tips for Bubble Tea Lovers Visiting Taiwan

Customise Your Drink: Taiwanese shops let you adjust the sweetness and ice levels. If you’re not a fan of overly sweet drinks, opt for “half sugar” (半糖).
Try Local Variations: Look for seasonal flavours or unique twists, like bubble tea with mochi or jelly toppings.
Share the Experience: Bubble tea is best enjoyed with friends! Grab a cup and explore Taiwan together.

An Interesting Fact About Bubble Tea

Did you know that Taiwan even has bubble tea-themed museums? The Chun Shui Tang Cultural Tea Museum in Taichung offers workshops where you can learn to make your own bubble tea from scratch. It’s the perfect way to take a piece of Taiwan’s tea culture home with you.

Final Thoughts: A Drink Worth the Hype

Whether you’re a die-hard bubble tea fan or a curious first-timer, Taiwan is the ultimate destination to experience this iconic drink. From its humble origins in Taichung to the Instagram-worthy creations of modern tea shops, Taiwan’s bubble tea scene is unmatched.

So, are you ready to ruin every other drink for yourself? Grab your reusable straw, head to the nearest tea shop, and dive into the world of authentic Taiwanese bubble tea. Trust me, you’ll never look at coffee the same way again.

Cheers to the ultimate bubble tea adventure! 🧋