Craving for boba? Here you can find the best Charleston’s bubble tea spots!
Charleston is home to some of the best bubble tea spots. Spots where you can enjoy everything from creamy milk teas to fruity blends with chewy tapioca pearls. Whether you’re a bubble tea enthusiast or trying it for the first time, these 7 local shops are sure to offer the perfect drink to satisfy your cravings. Explore the top bubble tea destinations in in the city for a refreshing experience.
Hi Boba Tea
9.8/10 (164 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 843-593-5312
Diverse MenuAuthentic FlavorsWelcoming Vibe
Hi Boba Tea strikes a chord with boba enthusiasts and casual sippers alike. It’s not just the delightful concoctions of taro milk tea adorned with tapioca pearls that elicit rave notes. Equally captivating is the diverse menu with truly good combinations, such as mango milk tea with popping bubbles, that stay with you long after you leave. The staff delivers service with cheerful smiles and a willingness to craft almost any drink to fit your taste. The boba, cooked to perfection without a hint of powder, dances alongside real tea flavors that boast authenticity. The shop’s charm isn’t just in its delectable offerings but also oozes out through colorful wall graphics and thoughtful decor, creating a warm spot to relax or catch up with class notes. From the delicious Banh Mì sandwiches to the variety of flavors across its beverages, Hi Boba Tea goes beyond serving merely a drink: it offers an experience. For those seeking that personal touch, Hi Boba’s attention to individualized customer preferences and the option to sample before commitment seal the deal. Regular patrons can enjoy charming trinkets in the fun, vibrant space while they decide among the extensive selections on offer. As a result, it’s not surprising that even first-time visitors often plan their return before they’ve reached the door.
Hạ Long Café
9.2/10 (414 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 843-501-7477
Authentic PhoFriendly ServiceVibrant Flavors
Situated in downtown Charleston, Hạ Long Café serves up Vietnamese cuisine and bubble tea with a strong fan base drawn to its authentic flavors and satisfying portions. The pho, boasted by many as the best they’ve had, is highly recommended, offering a taste that resonates deeply with traditional lovers of this dish. The menu also features impressive Bun Thit Nuong, enriched by fresh vegetables and a delightful peanut sauce. Banh mi and summer rolls join the list of favorites, delivering a crispy and savory harmony that elevates the dining experience. The bubble tea, particularly the brown sugar boba, offers a sweet complement to the savory dishes. For vegans, the tofu options receive praise for freshness. Coffee lovers can enjoy strong Vietnamese coffee that’s a staple for regulars. The staff, while occasionally overwhelmed, are friendly, enhancing a lively atmosphere filled with locals and tourists alike. Yet, be prepared for a potential wait during bustling hours. The space itself is roomy and well-lit, with a relaxed vibe gently aided by the presence of a fish tank. While the interior may come across as plain to some, the vibrant flavors more than make up for it, ensuring Hạ Long Café is a must-visit for both newcomers and those seeking a culinary escape to Vietnam.
King Acai and Bubble Tea
9.2/10 (91 reviews)
| Directions | +1 854-205-7797
Flavor varietyOrganic acaiStellar service
In the bustling, often chaotic arena of your local mall’s food court, King Acai and Bubble Tea emerges as a compelling oasis for those in pursuit of delightful drinks and nutritious acai bowls. This spot makes a strong mark with its remarkable selection of flavors, from lavender-infused bobas to dragonfruit energy drinks, offering an exciting palette of taste experiences that draw patrons back time and again. The standout items, however, are undeniably their acai bowls—crafted with organic acai topped with fresh, seasonal fruits and an enticing choice of unlimited toppings. The staff here, taking time to guide newcomers through their selections, adds a notable layer of warmth and friendliness that often turns a casual visit into a repeat affair. Rarely do you encounter this level of service; workers are known to recall regular customers, ensuring personalized and attentive interactions. Admittedly, a trip here might require some patience due to popularity-induced wait times, yet the efficient service and tantalizing choices more than compensate for any delay. Prices remain reasonable, with portions ensuring value while allowing thorough customization to satisfy every flavor craving.
King Acai and Bubble Tea
9/10 (58 reviews)
| Directions | +1 854-205-7797
Flavorful varietyCreative customizationFriendly service
King Acai and Bubble Tea, with locations at Citadel Mall and Folly Beach, stands out as a vibrant choice for both açaí bowl aficionados and bubble tea enthusiasts. The menu brims with a remarkable variety of flavorful selections that don’t skimp on creative flair, from dragon fruit smoothies complemented by bursting bubbles to unique takes like taro milk ice tea topped with coffee bursting bubbles. It’s a haven for boba lovers, consistently delivering drinks packed with boba, and boasting an impressive range of customization options. The friendly atmosphere created by the staff enhances the overall experience, with many taking the time to offer personalized recommendations, making visitors feel both welcomed and valued. Engaging customer service, like punch cards that reward return visits, ensures you’re likely to become a regular. Their organic açaí bowls, often described as some of the best available, use fresh ingredients that cater to the health-conscious crowd without skimping on taste. The addition of unique drink options, such as tiramisu and coffee mocha mixtures, only adds to the flavorful journey. Despite a few inconsistencies in service hours and policies, the majority find their visits delightful and memorable. King Acai and Bubble Tea perfectly blends creative, taste-driven menu offerings with a community-oriented vibe that keeps many coming back for more.