Where to Get Your Bubble Tea Fix in Charlotte

Mix up your beverage routine with this Taiwan inspired drink.

Originating from Taiwan in the 1980s, bubble tea is as cool to look at as it is to drink. The delicious treat starts with a tea base then piles on ice, milk, fruit, fruit juices, and finally signature “bubbles” – yummy tapioca pearls – to create a layered wonderland. A good shake and a large straw to slurp up the pearls at the bottom and any day becomes instantly special. Most stores can customize orders to your sweetness taste and pack on as many toppings as you'd like. Whether you are a bubble tea aficionado or boba curious – below are several places in Charlotte to pick up this unique treat. 

Kung Fu Tea Charlotte

With over 75 flavors of bubble tea, you are sure to have a fun time finding a favorite. Owner Vinh Le suggests starting with the more traditional milky teas like the Kung Fu Milk Tea or Taro Milk Tea. If you are looking for something refreshing, Le recommends the Passion Fruit Green Tea or Strawberry Lemonade. They also offer classic teas including Black, Green and Oolong, sweetened with sugar or honey. "Most of our drinks are completely customizable, and our baristas will be able to guide you to the right configuration," she says. The South Blvd. location has in-store seating at half capacity and the Arboretum location is offering take out only. Delievery is available from both locations. Multiple locations. 704-544-1002.   

photo courtesy of kung fu tea

Take a sip and find out why they call their drinks fresh, innovative and fearless. 

Gong Cha

"Gong Cha," meaning "tribute tea for the emperor," was founded in 2006 in Kaohsiung, Taiwan. Gong Cha prepares fresh drinks and pearls (bubbles) using tea from Taiwan tea estates. Not sure where to start? Try the Milk Foam Green Tea – the house specialty. Pick up and delivery only. 601 S Kings Dr Suite k, Charlotte, NC 28204. 980-613-8712. 

Sharetea

If you are looking for a truly authentic bubble tea experience, a stop at Sharetea should do the trick. This company makes its tea from leaves and select ingredients shipped directly from Taiwan. Sharetea began in Taipei, Taiwan serving to-go black tea and milk tea drinks to happy customers. Today the company has over 450 stores in 18 countries! While dine in is not currently available, a few tables are open outside. You can also have your order delivered via UberEats, Doordash, Grubhub or place your order online via the Website for quick pick up. 1204 Central Ave Ste 102, Charlotte, NC 28204. 980-299-6006. 

Binki Cafe Charlotte

Opened in January 2019, Binki Cafe is located across from UNCC – a short walk from the JW Clay Station on the LYNX Blue Line. Customers rave over the Thai Tea and The New York from the colorful Galaxy Series which consists of 5 fruit flavors and Flower Tea then filled with LED ice cubes that light up! Another popular selection is the Brown Sugar Milk Tea made with Earl Grey Tea and swirled with brown sugar molasses. Yum! Binki Cafe has recently added a full menu including ramen dishes, rice bowls, shareable appetizers and more. The store is open until 11 p.m., so your bubble tea is ready any time you are. The dining room is open at half capacity and phone orders are encouraged. 9211 N Tryon St #5, Charlotte, NC 28262. 980-859-2002. 

photo courtesy of binki cafe

Select a beverage from the Galaxy collection with LED ice and watch your drink light up. 

MiGuo Bubble Tea

photo courtesy of Miguo bubble tea

Come experience "not just a cup of tea."

Try one or all five and find your fave!

Courtney McLaughlin is a freelance writer and mom to a bubble tea enthusiast.