In the past few years, bubble tea has taken the UK by storm. It seems like every high street has a boba store – and it is always full of thirsty patrons. The whimsical mix of bright, fruity drinks and squishy pearls of sugar always puts a shine in an otherwise grey, British day. Here are the best places to grab a drink around Birmingham.
Urban Tea House
Sat just off the Hagley Road is a small but delicious sanctuary serving bubble tea for weary travellers. In addition to the classic tapioca milk tea and fruity options, they also offer “bubble fit”, which are sugar free drinks for those of you who love the sweet treat but not the sugar high. For such a small place, there are a wide range of options including blue raspberry, jasmine, and taro.
10-12 Wolverhampton Rd, Birmingham, Oldbury B68 0LH
TWIST
Twist was one of the early adopters of bubble tea in Birmingham, located in the city centre just off Victoria Square. Their tea options are sweet and simple, but all equally yummy (this writer recommends the lychee). Its location makes it perfect for the boba drinker on the go, and is a frequented spot for shoppers and those just off the train. In case the tea isn’t enough, they also serve frozen yogurt, macaron ice cream sandwiches, and taiyaki.
3 Ethel St, Birmingham B2 4BG
Mee Cha
Here’s another one for the shoppers! Mee Cha is a popular stall in the Bullring with an impressive number of choices. Want you bubble tea hot or as a slushie? They have you covered. Fancy adding some popping bubbles, jelly, or red bean? Can do. There are also flavours including chai latte, winter melon, and rose, so there really is something for everyone.
Kiosk 19, Lower Mall, Bull Ring, Birmingham B5 4BU
NaughTEA Boba
Imagine this: you’re at the Balti Triangle, and you maybe overestimated your heat tolerance. Where better to sooth your burning tongue than at NaughTEA? They of course serve the classics (with an optional topping of a brûlée crown if you’re that way inclined) but it’s the specials that really make the place, well, special. If you want something fruity, try the sangria or sparkling strawberry spritz. If a milky tea is more up your alley, then you’re in for a treat with their dessert themed drinks. Tiramisu, panna cotta, and jammy dodger are all on the menu.
376 Ladypool Rd., Balsall Heath, Birmingham B12 8JY
Hi Tea Bubble Tea
Beautifully authentic, Hi Tea isn’t one you’re likely to just stumble upon, but you should definitely search it out. With massive servings and the option for extra pearls, it’s like a sweet meal in a cup. There are a number of vegan options with oat milk, and the shop itself is a bubbly as the drinks it serves. This is definitely a must-visit for local students and residents alike.
283 Vicarage Rd, Birmingham B14 7NE
