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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Local picks in Armour Square

Authentic tea spots

Made for those who prioritize traditional brewing methods and refuse to settle for anything less than an authentic tea service.

Based on 727 Opinions
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Updated April 2026
01
Molly Tea (Chicago) image 1
Molly Tea (Chicago) image 2
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Bubble tea store

Small space with stylish decor featuring illuminated Chinese characters and floral accents creates a warm, welcoming atmosphere. The shop offers unique floral tea aromas and thoughtfully designed packaging that stands out among bubble tea spots.

Milk tea features authentic Chinese flavors with high-quality ingredients. Fresh jasmine milk tea and other drinks offer a genuine taste distinct from typical boba chains.

Offers milk tea with floral flavors like white champaca, served with options like crystal boba and adjustable sweetness. Tea quality rates consistently high, often described as the best in Chicago.

People are saying

"The milk teas here have a real tea flavor and are super fragrant."

"This matcha has a unique, strong tea flavor with amazing foam."

"I found the milk tea here to be super authentic and high quality."

Good to know

1

Expect long wait times during peak hours, especially on weekends.

2

Parking can be challenging; consider arriving early or using public transport.

3

They often have monthly specials, so check for current promotions.

02
Taian image 1
Tea store

Minimal, neat space offers a cozy atmosphere with beautiful, unique teaware and wide selection of premium Chinese teas. Free tea tastings invite relaxed, authentic experiences. Friendly owners share deep tea knowledge, enhancing the welcoming vibe.

Offers a warm and inviting Chinese tea experience with high-quality brews. Provides some of the most authentic Chinese tea available in the city.

A fantastic selection of high-quality, authentic Chinese teas like duck poop and snowflake oolong are available. The owner and his son share deep tea knowledge and offer free tastings, creating a welcoming and informative experience.

People are saying

"The owner is so knowledgeable and friendly about tea."

"The owner treated us like family, making it a great spot for dates."

"I found the most authentic Chinese tea here."

Good to know

1

The shop offers a huge variety of teas and teapots.

2

Samples of tea are provided free of charge.

3

Prices for tea are considered affordable for quality products.

03
Chef Xiong - Taste of Szechuan image 1

Restaurant offers authentic Sichuan cuisine with spicy, flavorful dishes and large portions. Interior blends a modern, clean design with unique touches like brass bird sculptures and kungfu panda figurines. Atmosphere stays quiet and relaxed, suitable for conversations without rush or loud noise.

Dishes deliver authentic Sichuan flavors with well-balanced spice and taste. Classics like Kung Pao Chicken and grilled fish come out spicy and flavorful, capturing genuine Szechuan cuisine.

Free tea service includes cold herbal tea and green tea that stand out for their quality. The tea smoked duck pairs well with these offerings.

People are saying

"The Szechuan food here is delicious and authentic."

"The authentic Sichuan food here has that numbing spice."

"I enjoyed the tea smoked duck."

Good to know

1

The restaurant accommodates seafood, peanut allergies, and vegan diets.

2

Portion sizes are large enough to share among diners.

3

Prices are affordable compared to other Szechuan restaurants in the area.

04
Mabu Generation image 1
Asian restaurant

Neon signs and bright open space create a clean, modern design with a lively, chill vibe. The atmosphere feels unique and welcoming, suited for small groups and families. Music plays loud and upbeat, adding to the energetic setting.

Taiwanese street food here offers authentic flavors with dishes like sausage and minced pork staying true to traditional recipes. The menu blends classic Taiwanese style with a modern twist for a genuine experience.

Milk tea features bear-shaped ice that adds a fun and cute touch. Pouring the tea yourself makes the experience interactive and enjoyable.

People are saying

"The desserts here are ridiculously fun and photogenic."

"The Taiwanese BBQ sausage and minced pork over rice is a must-try."

"The teddy bear milk tea is super delicious and adorable."

Good to know

1

Ordering food and drinks is done easily through a QR code.

2

Portions are generous, providing good value for the price.

3

The restaurant offers a wide variety of Taiwanese street food and snacks.

05
Wentworth Seafood House image 1
Chinese restaurant

Chinese restaurant offers authentic dim sum and traditional decor with a family-friendly atmosphere. Space feels cozy but can get cramped when busy, with lively background music. Dining experience combines flavorful dishes and a relaxed vibe.

Dim sum here stays true to traditional recipes with authentic Cantonese flavors. The menu offers fresh Chinese dishes in a relaxed, inviting setting.

Tea comes with meals at no extra cost. The magicarp roasted milk tea offers a creamy, not too sweet flavor. Crispy fried bean curd rolls and creamy custard buns pair well with tea, enhancing the experience.

People are saying

"The seafood here is super fresh and delicious."

"The milk tea here is very good and the bubble tea is top-notch."

"I found the Chinese food here to be really authentic and fresh."

Good to know

1

Dim sum is only served until 4pm; plan your visit accordingly.

2

Expect long wait times during weekends due to popularity.

3

Lunch specials are available until 4 PM for $9.

06
Golden Bull Restaurant image 1
Chinese restaurant

Small, crowded space with a family-style atmosphere and authentic Cantonese vibe. Noise levels rise from bustling servers and lively conversations, creating a chaotic but cozy environment. A big lazy Susan at tables adds to the communal dining experience.

Cantonese dishes here deliver authentic flavors with a focus on traditional ingredients. Steamed sea bass and fish maw seafood soup stand out for their genuine taste and generous portions.

Complimentary tea comes light and refreshing. Staff explain the whole menu and promptly fix any issues by adding tea bags to the pot.

People are saying

"The Cantonese food here is authentic and reminds me of home."

"The tea here is delicious and authentic."

"I found the Chinese and Cantonese food here to be authentic."

Good to know

1

The restaurant validates parking for the large lot in the area.

2

Prices are reasonable and cater to locals without tourist markups.

3

Food typically arrives within 10-15 minutes after ordering.

07
Saint Anna Bakery image 1

Small bakery offers authentic Hong Kong-style pastries with a cozy, nostalgic atmosphere marked by family ownership and casual presence of children. It operates primarily as a takeout spot with exceptionally low prices and a cash-only policy, creating a straightforward and unpretentious experience.

Authentic Hong Kong-style pastries stand out with rich flavors and traditional recipes. Chinese noodles lack flavor and do not match the authenticity of the bakery items.

Strong, Hong Kong Milk Tea stands out with rich flavor. Lemon Tea offers a bright, refreshing twist. Both pair well with dim sum or dessert.

People are saying

"I found the bakery's authentic Hong Kong-style pastries delicious."

"I found the pastries here to be delicious and authentic."

"I found the Hong Kong Milk Tea and Lemon Tea to be the best."

Good to know

1

Saint Anna Bakery accepts cash only for all purchases.

2

There is a $10 minimum for credit card payments with a 3% processing fee.

3

The bakery does not offer dining-in; only takeout is available.

08
Dolo Restaurant and Bar image 1
Chinese restaurant

Modern space blends traditional Chinese elements with modern elegance in a comfortable, refined atmosphere. Dim sum stands out as fresh and highly regarded, drawing a steady crowd without feeling crowded. The vibe balances lively energy with enough quiet for conversation, especially during midday.

Menu offers an extensive selection of authentic Chinese dishes and dim sum with rich flavors made from the finest ingredients. Food stays true to traditional Asian recipes without Americanization.

Green tea tastes delicious and pairs well with meals. Chrysanthemum tea enhances the flavor of dim sum. Tea is brewed well here.

People are saying

"I found the dim sum here to be extremely delicious."

"I found the authentic Chinese food and dim sum here."

"This dim sum place offers real Hong Kong style tea."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers a 20% discount on drinks and appetizers.

2

Parking is limited and fills up quickly, especially on weekends.

3

Expect a 30-minute wait for tables during peak dim sum hours on Sundays.

09
Ms Ku's Flowers and Desserts image 1

Small dessert shop combines floral decor with traditional Chinese desserts and freshly made mango sago. Atmosphere feels cozy and relaxing, with a warm and welcoming vibe. Space accommodates about 10 people and offers a unique blend of flowers and sweets.

Authentic Chinese desserts like red bean soup, black sesame paste, and peach gum sweet soup stand out here. The mango sago and Chinese herbal teas also deliver genuine flavors.

Authentic herbal teas like removal dampness tea and 24 tea come piping hot and to-go. Complimentary jasmine tea is offered, alongside a huge selection of traditional Chinese teas that remind many of home.

People are saying

"The desserts here are amazing and generous with ingredients."

"I loved the authentic Chinese desserts and herbal teas."

"I loved the authentic Chinese herbal teas and mango sago."

Good to know

1

Expect a 15-minute wait for fresh dessert preparation.

2

Ordering is done via a touchscreen menu with limited item descriptions.

3

Street parking is free near the café.

10
Dongpo Impression image 1
Chinese restaurant

Simple and clean interior creates a calm and quiet atmosphere despite busy surroundings. Bold and authentic Sichuan flavors define the dining experience with standout dishes like dry chili spice and mapo tofu. The place offers great vegetarian options and includes free jasmine tea with meals.

Offers authentic Sichuan cuisine with full flavor and perfectly cooked dishes. Serves delicacies from Sichuan province and appetizers that reflect genuine Chinese cooking.

Complimentary pot of jasmine tea arrives with meals, adding a refreshing start. Tea comes free alongside dishes, often paired with spicy cabbage for a flavorful combo.

People are saying

"The Sichuan Chinese food here is so authentic and flavorful."

"I found the Sichuan food here to be bold and authentic."

"The complimentary tea was a great plus with the delicious food."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers a wide variety of Sichuan dishes with vegetarian options.

2

Rice is included with most dishes, along with complimentary jasmine tea.

3

Expect bold flavors and a spicy dry chili seasoning in many dishes.

11
Yep Kitchen (AYCE Sushi & Hotpot )源记茶餐厅 image 1

Huge dining room with modern design and electronic tablet ordering creates a bright, clean, and efficient environment. Atmosphere feels family-friendly and lively, with cozy decor and pleasant music. Cantonese and sushi dishes offer authentic flavors that complement the warm vibe.

Food features authentic Cantonese-style dishes with Hong Kong style cuisine flavors. The thin and smooth 布拉腸粉 and beef offal noodles stand out for their genuine taste.

Hong Kong-style teas stand out with options like Hong Kong milk tea and hot lemon tea. Early visits before 11am include a free drink with dishes, adding value to the tea selection.

People are saying

"The food here is beautifully prepared and bursting with flavor."

"I found the Cantonese food here to be so authentic and delicious."

"I loved the free tangerine black tea I ordered."

Good to know

1

Parking on the Clark Street lot can be validated at the restaurant.

2

Expect a 1-hour wait time for dim sum on busy days like Christmas.

3

Breakfast or lunch specials come with a free hot drink before 11 AM or after 2:30 PM.

12
Dim Dim image 1
Hong Kong style fast food restaurant

Small, neat restaurant with a loud Cantonese atmosphere and authentic dim sum. Prices stay affordable, attracting locals and those seeking genuine flavors. The vibe recalls traditional Chinatown eateries with simple decor and lively chatter.

Cantonese dim sum and Chinese dishes serve up authentic flavors at affordable prices. The menu offers quality, traditional food that stays true to its roots.

Tea comes served hot in a tea pot right after sitting down. Options include Hong Kong styled milk tea and iced honey lemon tea. Payment is cash only at the counter.

People are saying

"The dim sum here is authentic and delicious, especially the custard tarts."

"Their Hong Kong styled milk tea is good."

"I found the Cantonese dim sum to be authentic and affordable."

Good to know

1

Parking is very difficult; expect to search for a spot.

2

The restaurant only accepts cash at the counter.

3

Prices are very affordable, around $16 per person plus tip.

13
B.B.Q. King image 1
Barbecue restaurant

Spacious restaurant with authentic local feel and specialty meats hanging inside. Atmosphere is welcoming and simple, often busy like rush hour. Known for large portions and affordable prices, especially praised for Peking duck and BBQ pork.

Crispy pork belly delivers an authentic crunch that stands out. The spot serves authentic Cantonese cuisine with a no-frills, local feel where the food speaks for itself.

Hot Hong Kong tea comes in a pot by default and tastes authentic and fantastic. Green tea is also available on the table, paired with attentive service.

People are saying

"You have to try the authentic Hong Kong-style BBQ roast duck."

"I loved the authentic Hong Kong–style barbecue here."

"The Hot Hong Kong tea here tasted fantastic and woke me right up."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers large portions, suitable for sharing among two or three people.

2

Prices are affordable, making it a budget-friendly dining option.

3

Street parking can be difficult to find, especially during busy hours.

14
Hing Kee image 1
Chinese restaurant

Small Chinese restaurant with cozy interior and ample seating divided into two sections. Atmosphere feels like being in someone's home, lively and family-friendly with a busy, energetic vibe. Music is loud and quirky, adding an unusual but memorable touch.

Xiao Long Bao comes close to authentic Shanghai style with bursting flavors and perfect cooking. Dim Sum tastes well balanced and true to tradition, while service stays fast and friendly.

Thai iced tea stands out as creamy and rich, often noted as the best. Hong Kong royal tea offers a smooth, creamy flavor, while fresh lemon honey tea and iced teas deliver bright, refreshing tastes.

People are saying

"The soup dumplings here are amazing."

"The soup dumplings are an explosion of rich, savory broth."

"The soup dumplings here are delicious and yummy."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended as the restaurant can get very busy.

2

Expect long wait times during peak hours, especially on weekends.

3

An automatic tip of 18%-20% is added to the bill for all customers.

15
LEE WING WAH image 1
Chinese restaurant

Chinese restaurant offers authentic decor and a clean, comfortable atmosphere with a quiet vibe. The space feels unwelcoming and awkward at times, with few diners besides staff. Prices vary, and the setting is simple rather than trendy.

Simple, authentic Cantonese dishes define the menu. The authentic decor enhances the experience, making it feel like a genuine Chinese restaurant.

Coconut milk bubble tea stands out for its tasty flavor. Taro milk tea sometimes tastes off, and matcha comes in a plastic cup rather than a kettle.

People are saying

"I found the simple, traditional Chinese food here to be truly authentic."

"The garlic ribs are crispy and tender."

"I enjoyed the coconut milk bubble tea because it was very tasty."

Good to know

1

The restaurant has a serious bug problem and needs investigation.

2

The food was very overpriced, costing us 100 dollars for three simple dishes.

3

The bathroom was clean.

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Armour Square, Chicago

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