In China, drinking milk tea has become a social way to bridge the gap between people of all ages. In Shanghai, this bustling metropolis, boba tea brands are blooming, occupying half of the beverage industry. This article will briefly introduce you to two major boba tea trends: one is the nationwide chain, a household name brand; the other is a newly rising niche boutique that quietly blossoms in Shanghai, both of which weave together the sweet flavors of this city.
Big-name chain stores:
1.HEYTEA:
Originating from Jiangmen, Guangdong, and founded in 2012, HEYTEA has consistently adhered to using real dairy, fresh fruits, authentic tea leaves, and real cane sugar to bring customers high-quality tea, thereby ushering in a "new era of tea drinks."
Representative drinks: Juicy Grape and Juicy Red Bayberry.
2.NAIXUE:
It has created a new dining concept of "tea + soft European-style pastries" that is deeply loved by young people.
3.LELECHA:
A brand that combines "tea drinks with soft European-style pastries", headquartered in Shanghai. During its heyday, it was known as one of the "three giants" of milk tea alongside NAIXUE and HEYTEA.
4.CHAGEE:
A brand originating from Yunnan, the hometown of tea in the world, specializing in new Chinese-style tea drinks since its inception in 2017.
Signature drink: Boya Juexian “伯牙绝弦”
5.LINLEE:
It is most famous for its various kinds of little ducks. You can get one duck for free when you buy a cup of drink. By telling the clerk the "secret code", you can also get a duck accessory.
Recommendation: Signature Hand-squeezed Lemon Tea.
6.Ningji:
Founded in Changsha, Hunan, in 2021, Ningji focuses on its signature "violently beaten lemon" tea series, with a cute green alligator as its logo. Within eight months, it opened 300 stores and finally made its way to the enchanting city of Shanghai.
Recommendation: Jasmine Hand-squeezed Lemon Tea, Duck Shit Fragrance Lemon Tea (a particular type of Oolong tea in Chinese)
New brand stores:
7.LEACH:
Address: 1F, 382 Julu Road
(1) Google Map (2) Apple Map
Those who have specific requirements for tea tasting can definitely try this place. They offer a self-selection of tea bases, and there are so many options with various grades and origins, mainly from Fujian Province.
Recommendation: Super Concentrated·Freeze-Dried Yunnan Dianhong Eisbock
The Eisbock milk brings a slightly salty and rich mouthfeel, accompanied by a full-bodied creamy aroma. Yunnan Dianhong, being the most intense type of black tea, blends perfectly with the milk to create a sweet and smooth palate. The crushed pearls mixed with the iced milk tea offer an intriguing texture, and you can also add an extra portion of pearls for an enhanced chewing experience.
Sea Salt Hot Cocoa: Initially, the sip brings a subtle balance of saltiness and cocoa flavor. As you continue to savor, the cotton candy gradually dissolves into the beverage, infusing it with a touch of sweetness that makes it even more palatable. As the cocoa level gradually decreases, the aroma of cinnamon, settled at the bottom of the cup, becomes increasingly prominent, adding a delightful layer of fragrance to the hot cocoa.
8.LIHOU CHASI:
Address: B240, B2 Floor, K11 Shopping Center, Huangpu District
(1) Google Map (2) Apple Map
As the first tea shop nationwide specializing in Southern Fujian cuisine, Lihou has thoroughly embodied the essence of Southern Fujian Gongfu Tea. Its advertising slogan, "Only through perseverance can one succeed," perfectly captures the essence of the Southern Fujian spirit.
The beverage menu includes fruit teas, lemon teas, fresh milk teas, dairy teas, cold-brewed teas, and pot-brewed teas, alongside ice creams.
Hand-Pounded Citrus Peel Jasmine Iced Tea:
This unique blend combines salt-cured fruit with a refreshing jasmine iced tea. The tea aroma is rich and intense, complemented by a subtle fruit fragrance without being overly sweet. The addition of citrus peel granules adds a delightful texture, and the salt-sweet balance is perfect for summer indulgence!
Rice Wine Pudding Ice Cream:
Offering a texture that falls between ice cream and slushy. A must-try for rice wine enthusiasts.
9.Bonjour:
Address: Floor 1, No. 150, Wujiang Road (near Exit 3, Nanjing West Road Station, Metro Line 2)
(1) Google Map (2) Apple Map
A milk tea shop that is hailed as the "Pride of Suzhou" and became popular in Shanghai after being endorsed by celebrities.
Black Sesame Milk Tea:
A blend of creamy milk, black sesame paste, cheesy milk foam, soy milk powder, black sugar agar jelly, popping black sesame pearls, and glutinous rice balls. Perfect for sesame lovers!
Floating Fresh Milk Tea:
A layer of thick, salty milk foam topped with caramel, followed by pure milk and sweetened with brown sugar tapioca pearls. A straightforward choice. If you prefer less sweetness, kindly inform the staff to make it sugar-free as the tapioca pearls are naturally sweet.
Crispy Ovaltine Latte:
A rich blend of Ovaltine, milk, Oreo crumbs, and milk foam. The sweetness is fixed and cannot be adjusted. The first sip brings a strong Ovaltine flavor, complemented by crispy boba for a smooth and indulgent experience.
