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Authentic tea spots in Alhambra

A traditional tea service is the only way to slow down the pace of the day.

Based on 628 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Lollicup Fresh | Alhambra image 1
Lollicup Fresh | Alhambra image 2
Lollicup Fresh | Alhambra image 3
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Clean interior and positive energy create a welcoming atmosphere. The menu offers genuinely Taiwanese dishes with special recipes that stand out, especially pork chop rice and popcorn chicken. Takeout dominates due to limited dine-in, with affordable prices and half-off drinks for regular sizes.

Great authentic Taiwanese food defines the menu. It delivers consistent true Taiwanese flavor that satisfies cravings.

Sea salt black tea stands out as a notable drink. The menu includes passion fruit green tea boba that pairs well with snacks like popcorn chicken. The brand also supplies many other milk tea businesses, showing its influence in the market.

People are saying

"I loved their authentic Taiwanese pork chop rice."

"The popcorn chicken here is the best food I've had."

"Their passion fruit green tea boba is a favorite."

Good to know

1

Dine-in is not open currently; only takeout is available.

2

If street parking is filled, there is a parking structure behind the business.

3

There is usually street parking available.

02
Chong Yuen Fong 狀元坊 (CYFKitchen) image 1

Small, cozy space with retro Hong Kong decor and 90's pop music creates a warm, nostalgic atmosphere. The kitchen's rotating stove design supports authentic dishes like clay pot rice and Portuguese egg tarts made in-house. The vibe is casual and welcoming, often quiet with slow-paced service.

Clay pot rice features super crispy rice and captures authentic Cantonese and Hong Kong style flavors. Dishes maintain a nutritious, balanced taste without heavy salt or MSG.

House brewed teas include chrysanthemum and goji berry, which are refreshing and not sweet. Herbal teas pair well with Portuguese egg tarts and come included in set meals, offering good value.

People are saying

"You have to try the Portuguese Egg Tarts with their impressive filling."

"The clay pot rice here is so authentic and has super crispy rice."

"The claypot rice is perfectly cooked and crispy."

Good to know

1

Expect a wait time of 15-20 minutes as food is made to order.

2

Parking is widely available in the back, but can be scarce during peak hours.

3

Reservations are recommended through the Chowbus app for quicker service.

03
Bobacraft Cafe image 1

Small tea house offers authentic Taiwanese snacks and fresh tea leaves in a cozy, chill atmosphere. It attracts students and those looking for a quiet study spot with WiFi available. Food includes crispy popcorn chicken and flavorful wheel cakes, served in a clean, friendly setting.

Authentic tea leaves create the base for their drinks. Traditional tofu pudding stays fresh and genuine. Taiwanese popcorn, known as 鹽酥雞, comes straight from Bobacraft Cafe, keeping it real.

Tea uses authentic tea leaves and is made fresh with real cream and milk. Black milk tea and green tea drinks have a perfect balance, with fresh boba and natural flavors like real taro.

People are saying

"The wheel cakes here are fun, tasty, and not too sweet."

"The milk tea here tastes super good and uses real milk."

"I found the traditional tofu pudding to be authentic and fresh."

Good to know

1

Free 2-hour parking is available at the back garage.

2

The 'wait-less' wheel cakes take about 25 minutes to prepare.

3

Drinks start at $6, which may be considered expensive by some.

04
Formosa Aroma 島嶼茶鄉 - Alhambra, CA image 1

Artisan tea shop with premium tea leaves from Taiwan and a modern, cozy interior featuring exotic tea leaf displays. Atmosphere suits studying or working, supported by plenty of seating and power outlets. Busy evenings bring lively energy while maintaining a clean, comfortable environment.

Tea offers a very good authentic flavor that reflects true Taiwanese style. The shop focuses on delivering authentic Taiwanese tea experiences.

Tea here keeps a strong, delicious flavor and a unique fragrance from brewing in a teapot. The selection includes authentic Taiwanese oolong teas and customizable bases, with options like four season mountain tea and pouchong green tea that balance flavor well.

People are saying

"I loved the tea here; it's so customizable and flavorful."

"The matcha pudding with oolong tea is a highlight."

"I found the tea here to have a very good authentic flavor."

Good to know

1

Parking is free in the plaza garage shared with B.B.Q. Chicken and Lunasia.

2

The shop has plenty of seating and power outlets, ideal for studying.

3

Expect a wait of around 30 minutes during peak hours.

05
Bangkok Soul image 1
Thai restaurant

Modern, trendy Thai restaurant with a lively atmosphere and neon sign sets a welcoming tone. Spacious layout features few Thai decor elements, creating a clean and comfortable space. Popular spot known for affordable lunch deals and quick service.

Khao Kha Moo tastes just like in Thailand with rich, authentic flavors. Fried rice carries a strong wok aroma that adds to its genuine feel.

Sweet and creamy Thai Iced Tea stands out, balancing refreshment without heaviness. Traditional options like chrysanthemum tea and winter melon tea add variety to the drink menu.

People are saying

"The Thai food here is flavorful and authentic, especially the Pad Thai."

"The lunch special here is great and affordable."

"The Thai Iced Tea is perfectly sweet, creamy, and refreshing."

Good to know

1

The lunch special includes Thai Tea, rice, soup, sides, and a main dish for $15.95.

2

Parking is easy as the restaurant is located in the same plaza as Smart & Final.

3

There was no wait, parking was a breeze, and we were seated immediately.

06
U2 Cafe & BBQ 港式西餐/庸記燒臘 image 1

Space feels open with a contemporary Hong Kong-style decor and U2-themed accents. Atmosphere stays quiet and comfortable, suitable for families and friends despite nearby daycare noise. Menu offers authentic Cantonese BBQ with large portions and a variety of dishes, making it a local favorite.

Food serves authentic HK style flavors with a delicious taste. Dishes reflect genuine Chinese cuisine traditions.

Lemon iced tea stands out with a refreshing taste and constant refills. Milk tea also offers authentic Hong Kong-style flavors in a comfortable setting.

People are saying

"The Cafe's server Fanny was so attentive and friendly."

"I thought their lemon iced tea was the best I had ever tasted."

"I found the Chinese food here to be authentic HK style."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 3 to 5 PM every day, including weekends.

2

They have a great selection of happy hour items.

3

There was ample parking and seating options.

07
Mama Lu’s Dumpling House image 1
Chinese restaurant

Modern, elegant interior with huge windows and boutique hotel feel creates a spacious dining environment. Lively and bustling atmosphere fills the room with authentic Chinese flavors and soft piano music in the background. Private rooms accommodate small parties, adding a versatile touch to the setting.

Authentic Jiangzhe cuisine shines through with generous portions and authentic flavors. The menu offers a huge variety of affordable dishes that stay true to traditional Chinese food.

Tea and peanuts arrive immediately after seating. Staff keeps tea pots filled and serves drinks promptly throughout the visit.

People are saying

"These dumplings are juicy and flavorful."

"I found the food to be authentic and delicious."

"They served tea and water immediately after I sat down."

Good to know

1

Free parking is available in the lot and curbside.

2

Lunch specials offer great value with prices under $10.

3

The menu features a wide variety of authentic Chinese dishes.

08
Henry's Cuisine image 1
Chinese restaurant

Bright interior with classic Chinese design and glass dividers creates an energetic, lively atmosphere. Crowded and loud, it suits groups who enjoy a bustling environment. Large parking lot supports family gatherings and big parties.

Food features authentic Cantonese flavors with dishes like sweet and sour pork and Xingzhou fried rice noodles that stand out for their genuine taste. Ingredients stay fresh and true to traditional Chinese cuisine.

Staff keep cups filled with hot water for jasmine tea and offer free refills on HK style lemon tea and iced tea. The lemon tea tastes delicious and comes with unlimited refills.

People are saying

"The food here has super tender, flavorful beef brisket in generous portions."

"I loved the authentic Cantonese food here."

"I loved the unlimited iced tea refills; it was a nice touch."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended as the restaurant can get very busy.

2

Some dishes need to be ordered at least one day in advance.

3

A 12% mandatory tip is added to the bill.

09
Sunday Bistro image 1
Cha chaan teng (Hong Kong-style cafe)

Spacious, bright setting with down-to-earth vibe and casual, bustling atmosphere. Frequented by locals, it offers authentic Hong Kong-style comfort with free rice and drink refills enhancing the experience. Outdoor seating is available but often smoky from nearby cigarette smokers.

Dishes serve authentic Hong Kong flavor with classic Cantonese taste. The eggplant clay pot with beef short ribs comes piping hot with rice, showcasing simple and genuine flavors.

Free refills come with ice lemon tea, milk tea, and ice black tea. The OG lemon iced tea stands out as a popular choice, alongside a quite good milk tea.

People are saying

"I liked the western steak at this Hong Kong-style restaurant."

"The tea here is a great value."

"I found the Hong Kong-style food here to be simple, authentic, and delicious."

Good to know

1

Prices are very affordable, averaging around $10 per person.

2

The restaurant offers huge portions, perfect for sharing family-style.

3

There is plenty of parking available in the large plaza.

10
Chef G on 4th Thai Street Food image 1

Small space with about 8 tables creates a cozy, homey atmosphere where conversations flow easily. Energy stays pleasant and casual, fitting for couples or small groups. Offers authentic Thai flavors with a modern, clean setting.

Food features authentic Thai flavors with classic dishes that are simple and tasty. Service adapts well to different taste preferences.

Thai tea stands out with rich flavor and smooth texture. Staff provide frequent check-ins and refill water promptly when the tea finishes.

People are saying

"The curry here has bold, amazing flavor."

"I found the Thai food here to be authentic and tasty."

"I tried their Thai iced tea and it was nice."

Good to know

1

Parking is available in the lot behind the restaurant and on the street.

2

Expect long wait times, especially around noon.

3

The portion sizes are small relative to the price.

11
Top Island Seafood Restaurant image 1

Spacious dining hall with classic Hong Kong–style vibes and push carts serving dim sum creates a lively, authentic atmosphere. Bright lighting and large fish tanks add to the clean, festive environment where Cantonese is commonly spoken. Crowds gather early for tea, making it a popular spot for family gatherings and group dinners.

Cantonese dishes and dim sum here are genuinely authentic with no fancy add-ons. The atmosphere includes Cantonese spoken all around, enhancing the real oriental vibe. The food satisfies cravings for real Chinese flavors.

Early mornings fill with grandpas and grandmas sipping tea around tables. Staff serve hot tea quickly, though some tea cups need replacing due to cleanliness issues.

People are saying

"The seafood here is tender, fresh, and perfectly cooked."

"I found the Cantonese food here to be truly authentic."

"I enjoyed the traditional Cantonese dim sum and tea."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers a 10% discount on dim sum during weekday mornings.

2

Parking is spacious and free for all diners.

3

Expect a wait during peak hours, especially on weekends.

12
The Bay Cafe image 1
Cantonese restaurant

Typical Hong Kong style restaurant with a hole-in-the-wall feel and functional interior including an outside waiting area. Atmosphere turns loud when full, attracting many elder Chinese patrons familiar with the place. Known for very affordable prices and generous portions, it offers quick, decent-quality Chinese food with some standout dishes.

Lunch specials run until 6 pm, offering authentic Hong Kong flavors like crystal cold cut chicken and szechuan eggplant. The menu blends authentic Chinese local food with typical American dishes for a casual dining experience.

Offers HK style milk tea and lemon tea in large 32oz plastic cups sealed with plastic film. Drinks come with unlimited refills and can be taken to go.

People are saying

"I found the Hong Kong-style food here to be authentic and affordable."

"You can get unlimited refills of the huge Hong Kong-style lemon tea."

"I loved the authentic Hong Kong cuisine here."

Good to know

1

Lunch specials are available until 6 pm, perfect for a quick bite.

2

Prices for dishes can be as low as $6.

3

Paying by cash gives an extra 15% discount.

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Alhambra, California

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