Craving for boba? Here you can find the best Irvine’s bubble tea spots!
Irvine 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.
Jam Jam Tea Lab
9.4/10 (58 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 949-418-9575
Customizable sweetnessVibrant atmosphereUnique drink flavors
Jam Jam Tea Lab shakes up the boba scene with its inventive menu and vibrant atmosphere in Irvine. Step inside, and you’re greeted by a spacious setting with ample seating, decorated in soothing cream and green tones. They seamlessly blend modernity with tradition, offering a counter for those eager to chat with the baristas, alongside convenient self-service kiosks. Where they truly standout is their menu. Think exotic offerings like Grapefruit Americano, blending the tartness of fruit with the kick of caffeine, or the indulgent Brûlée Brown Sugar Milk Tea. Fruit tea enthusiasts find a haven here, with jasmine green teas serving as robust bases for concoctions like Green Grape Smash, which includes delightful grape bits. Unique too, are their imported jams, adding a refreshing twist you don’t see elsewhere. For those mindful of sweetness, customization is key, and it’s reassuring to know you can dial it down by a notch or two. One drink quickly becoming a cult favorite is the Coconut Mango Pomelo, balancing sweetness with a faint coconut taste. Summer calls for the Tropical Smash, a perfect remedy to scorching days. Also notable is the inclusion of cute, lightly insulated reusable bags for to-go orders—a charming touch from this bustling yet thoughtful spot.
SOMA Tea & Mocktail – Irvine
9/10 (133 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 949-418-9092
Authentic teaRelaxing atmosphereEfficient service
SOMA Tea & Mocktail in Irvine is the spot you want if you’re craving high-quality bubble tea with an authentic twist. Here, the tea is the real deal—premium blends that deliver strong and genuine flavors, not a watered-down sugary shortcut. The Mushu Dragon tea series is a hit, bringing you a fragrant aroma you won’t even find in Taiwan. The oolong tea here stands out for its robustness, elevating the drink experience to a whole new level. It’s not just the drinks, though; this place has a modern minimalist vibe with an inviting interior that gives off a relaxed yet lively atmosphere. The staff rounds off the experience with friendly service and helpful customization tips, making sure you get the right sweetness levels and toppings for your drink. You might also bump into their convenient BOGO 50% deal, a bonus for when you just can’t decide on one drink. Quick to prepare and efficient, they manage to tackle both delivery and in-person orders like pros—though prepare for a slight wait during busier periods. And for those eco-conscious folks, it’s worth noting that their beverage containers are more sustainable choices. Try their signature milk tea or venture into the adventurous with a refreshing mocktail; either way, you’re in for a treat.
One Zo Boba
9/10 (539 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 949-418-9672
Handmade bobaExtensive menuInteractive features
Amid the vibrant boba scene, One Zo Boba shines with its handmade boba pearls that offer a chewy delight in every sip. This spot appeals to a diverse crowd with its extensive menu. The refreshing fruit teas, like the Orange Green Tea, capture the essence of genuine fruit flavors, while the smoothies and milk teas offer contemplative depth, allowing each ingredient to unfold expressively. The inclusion of unique items like tanghulu provides an unexpected twist, ushering in a sweet and crunchy contrast to the beverages. For those seeking interactive elements, the space is filled with engaging features, such as claw machines and a photo booth, adding an element of fun and adventure to the visit. Efficiency in service is prioritized with kiosks that streamline orders, ensuring prompt drink delivery even during busier times. The staff are known for their kindness, enhancing the welcoming atmosphere with their approachable demeanor. While the indoor seating lacks extensive space for leisurely stays, outdoor areas provide an alternative for those wishing to savor their drinks amidst a gentle breeze. Prices remain reasonable, making it an accessible indulgence for repeat visits. Whether you crave a classic milk tea or are open to exploring new, tantalizing flavors, the combination of quality, creativity, and interactive features crafts a memorable experience.
OROBAE
9/10 (505 reviews)
Customizable DrinksExceptional TeaStellar Service
Nestled in the heart of Irvine, OROBAE is redefining the bubble tea experience with its high-quality brews and exceptional service. Operating from a chic outdoor setup, the spotlight here is undeniably on the tea itself. Patrons rave about the meticulous attention to flavor balance, successfully combining robust tea notes with creamy milk without overwhelming sweetness. This isn’t just a beverage; it’s a crafted experience where choices range from sugar to ice levels, offering ultimate personalization. Seasonal favorites like the Rising Phoenix milk tea and the Metal Buddha bring patrons back with their signature floral and earthy profiles. The boba pearls delight with a chewy texture that complements each drink. While the line is often long, the wait pays off—staff members keenly ensure satisfaction, offering to adjust drinks until they’re just right. OROBAE stands out in the bustling bubble tea scene not just for its flavorful offerings but for the way it has cultivated a community vibe. The hands-on approach ensures every customer feels attended to, even as they’re encouraged to try their beverage right there. This sensory first-taste ensures a product that meets expectations every time. The blend of immersive service and outstanding quality makes each visit to OROBAE a tea lover’s delight.