Boba tea, also known as bubble tea, has taken the world by storm, and Indonesia is no exception. From the classic milk tea with tapioca pearls to unique flavors like matcha and taro, boba places are popping up all over the city. As a self-declared boba enthusiast, I set out to discover the best boba places near me. Here are my top picks:
1. Koi Thé
Koi Thé is a Taiwanese boba chain that has made its way to Indonesia. With over 200 stores worldwide, Koi Thé is known for its extensive menu of milk teas, fruit teas, and slushies. One of their most popular drinks is the classic Koi Bubble Milk Tea, which features chewy tapioca pearls and creamy milk tea. Koi Thé also offers seasonal drinks, such as their winter melon tea or their summer peach tea. The atmosphere at Koi Thé is trendy and modern, with custom-made furniture and bright neon lights.
2. Chatime
Another Taiwanese boba chain that has made its way to Indonesia is Chatime. Chatime is committed to using fresh ingredients and natural flavors in their handcrafted drinks. They offer a variety of milk teas, fruit teas, and smoothies, as well as toppings like jelly and aloe vera. One of their unique drinks is the Red Bean Pearl Milk Tea, which features chewy tapioca pearls and sweet red beans. Chatime also has a rewards program where customers can earn points for every purchase and redeem them for free drinks.
3. Bobabits
Bobabits is a local boba shop that prides itself on using premium tea leaves and high-quality ingredients. Their menu features classic milk teas, fruit teas, and creative drinks like the Strawberry Cream Cheese Tea and the Chocolate Mint Tea. Bobabits also offers a range of toppings, including boba, jelly, and pudding. What sets Bobabits apart is their commitment to sustainability. They use eco-friendly utensils and packaging, and even have a recycling program for their cups and lids.
4. Tiger Sugar
Tiger Sugar is a Taiwanese boba chain that has gained a cult following for their signature Brown Sugar Boba Milk. This drink features creamy milk, chewy tapioca pearls, and a rich brown sugar syrup that is caramelized on the sides of the cup. The result is a beautiful ombré effect that is both Instagram-worthy and delicious. Tiger Sugar also offers other drinks like their Brown Sugar Boba Matcha Latte and their Brown Sugar Boba Black Tea Latte. The queues for Tiger Sugar can be long, but the wait is worth it.
5. Kokumi
Kokumi is a local boba shop that specializes in cheese teas. Cheese tea may sound odd, but it’s a creamy and casio bet slightly salty topping that pairs surprisingly well with sweet teas. Kokumi offers a range of cheese teas, including their signature Kokumi Cheese Tea, which features jasmine green tea and a layer of cream cheese foam on top. They also have fruit teas, milk teas, and smoothies, as well as toppings like boba and grass jelly. The decor at Kokumi is cozy and homey, with wooden tables and plants hanging from the ceiling.
Boba tea has become more than just a drink; it’s a cultural phenomenon that has brought people together all over the world. Whether you’re a boba fanatic or a newcomer, there are plenty of options to explore in Indonesia. Try out one of these boba places near you and experience the deliciousness for yourself.
