Bubble tea, otherwise known as boba, has made its way to the big cities of Colombia, including Medellin. From small stalls in malls and parks to large stores that specialize in playing with the unique flavors and textures of bubble tea, you’ll find plenty of places where you can grab a drink.
Plus, the experience of drinking bubble tea in Colombia is different, as this has blended with the wide variety of fruits the country offers.
Are you craving some bubble tea? Then let me walk you through the best bubble tea spots in Medellin. Let’s jump in!
A Brief History of Bubble Tea
Bubble tea emerged in Taiwan in 1990. Unfortunately, the name of the creator of the delicious drink isn’t known.
This drink started as popular among teenagers and young people from all over Asia, then spread everywhere. Now you can find Bubble tea shops in every corner of the world.
You’ll find different types of bubble tea that vary depending on the traditional ingredients of each country. Even in Taiwan, it was declared April 30th as the National Bubble Tea Day.
What’s In It?
There’s a wide variety of bubble tea! The drink has multiple options, such as different colors, flavors, and textures. The original consists of ‘boba’ or ‘pearls’ made of yuca or cassava, a very traditional ingredient of Colombia. Boba tea will typically be served with milk tea unless otherwise specified.
The toppings to choose from are plentiful. There are red beans, syrups, jelly, brown sugar pearls, and milk options, even vegan, gluten-free, or lactose-free. Just pick your favorite and enjoy this highly-customizable drink.
Spots in Medellin for Bubble Tea
Thirsty yet? It’s time to know the best places to get your hands on this yummy beverage.
Momotea
Momotea is a Colombian brand that specializes in its creations of Japanese food and desserts. Momotea offers drinks and bubble tea of traditional Colombian flavors such as maracuya or passionfruit.
There’s always a crowd in Medellin due to its popularity with the culture and food. Find the best boba shops here:
- Santafe Mall
- Arkadia Mall
- Viva Envigado Mall
- Viva Laureles Mall
- Euro La Frontera
Mendein businesses have vegan options on menus for all customers! Commitment to helping the planet is significant in Colombia. Companies use bamboo strays by default. It’s also possible to reuse plastic cups as pots to plant seeds.
In addition to bubble teas, other delicatessens are perfect for grabbing a bite. The Hong Kong Waffle is highly rated. The most popular dish is a puffy little bubble covered in chocolate sauce, ice cream, or both!
Not in the mood for bubble tea? Delight in something maybe more familiar! Try some Italian sodas. These are the popular sold flavors:
- Maracuya or passionfruit
- Watermelon
- Lychee
Momotea fan favorite is the Almond Smoothie: vegan, gluten-free, and lactose-free. It’s a satisfying alternative for those bubble tea lovers that may have dietary restrictions.
IG: @mimomotea
Poblado Address: Calle 185 No. 45 – 03. Santafe Mall, El Poblado, Medellín Colombia
Teamo Teahouse
If you’re in Viva Envigado Mall, head over to Teamo Teahouse.
Most of the menu is inspired by the Japanese teahouse, with traditional flavors such as oolong tea, matcha tea, black tea, and green tea. Choose from plain tea, or turn your tea into bubble tea for an additional price. Add tapioca pearls to your drink for an extra kick of texture!
Staying in for the day? Buy a 1 L bottle of tea and flavor it, add the toppings and enjoy from the comfort of your hotel or Airbnb.
A comforting recommendation is the Suprema drink, mixed with orange, lemon, papaya, pitaya, and maracuya. Overall, there are cozy shops scattered throughout the city. It is easy to find a soothing atmosphere almost anywhere in town.
Address: Cra. 48 #32B Sur-139, Envigado, Antioquia
T4 Oviedo
T4 is one of the most prestigious chain stores in terms of bubble tea. T4 started in 2004 in Taiwan and eventually spread overseas.
In addition to traditional flavors such as matcha and milk tea, this chain offers other options not as well known, such as flower tea with rose, osmanthus, and Ophelia aloe.
Please don’t miss out on the Taiwanese specialty drinks! Ask about French pudding milk teas or grass jelly milk teas. You won’t be disappointed!
T4 Oviedo is a perfect place to get some work done, thanks to its strong wifi and board game area. It is known for embodying a relaxing and laid-back atmosphere.
IG: @t4colombia
Address: Cra. 43a #6s-15, El Poblado, Medellín, Antioquia
Satisfy your Sweet Tooth With Bubble Tea
Enjoy a variety of flavors with the natural and typical ingredients of Colombia. There are plenty of spots to taste the best bubble tea in the city.
So, what do you say? What bubble tea shop will you visit first? Let us know in the comments!
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