Atly Logo
New Yorkers 1st Choice
Local picks

Boba tea shops in Chicago

You want boba tea, but you are looking for a shop that offers something beyond the standard menu.

Based on 690 Opinions
+687
User
User
User
Updated May 2026
01
Tulip's Tea on Tuesday image 1
Tulip's Tea on Tuesday image 2
Tulip's Tea on Tuesday image 3
View all

Tiny cafe with cute maximalist decor and cozy seating creates a warm, inviting atmosphere filled with plushies and handmade crafts. The space feels like an energy oasis, offering a friendly vibe despite limited seating and occasional crowding. Unique touches like crocheted mini flowers with drinks add charm to the experience.

Unique drink selection includes signature milk tea and taro delight green tea with distinct flavors. The cafe features adorable small-format decor and cute to-go boba carriers that stand out.

Delicious boba tea stands out with perfect flavor and texture. The bubble tea pairs well with doughnuts, making it a solid choice for bubble tea lovers.

People are saying

"The tea service here is so friendly and welcoming."

"The Boba Tea here is served with the sweetest, kindest customer service."

"The drinks here are unique and really delicious."

Good to know

1

The shop offers a membership deal that includes a drink and snack every Tuesday.

2

Vegan options are available on the menu for those with dietary restrictions.

3

The seating area is small, so it may be crowded during busy times.

02
Happy Bobas image 1
Bubble tea store

Colorful interior with neon zodiac signs and playful energy creates a cozy, kid-friendly vibe. K-pop music plays, adding to the fun and welcoming atmosphere. Unique decor features include lucky cats and light-up animal zodiac displays.

Creativity shines in the unique drink combinations that go beyond standard boba menus. Options range from Vietnamese coffee with ube cream to a wide variety of ice cream flavors and customizable toppings.

Bubble tea here tastes authentic and is not too sweet, striking a good balance. The taro boba tea stands out as a favorite among the options.

People are saying

"The tea flavors here are so delicious and unique."

"I loved the delicious and unique boba tea flavors here."

"The staff's genuine hospitality makes you feel so welcome."

Good to know

1

Happy Bobas hosts special events and promotions throughout the year.

2

They have fun holiday activities for families during the festive season.

3

Happy hour offers discounts on drinks and snacks.

03
Gathers Tea Bar image 1

Small cafe with a modern, minimalist aesthetic and cute, carefully designed interior creates a warm, inviting atmosphere. Space feels cozy but can get loud and crowded when busy, making it a popular spot to hang out and enjoy tea. Seating is limited, with some bench seats for waiting.

Unique drinks include a variety of teas and matcha drinks not found at other boba spots. Tea extraction uses machines like those for coffee, creating a distinct flavor profile.

Offers premium boba tea with a wide variety of options. The bubble tea is consistently high quality and considered among the best in the area.

People are saying

"I thought this was the best matcha I ever had."

"The strawberry matcha latte is creamy and well balanced."

"I thought the Boba Tea here was the best I had."

Good to know

1

Expect long lines during peak hours, especially on weekends.

2

Ordering ahead is recommended to avoid waiting in line.

3

Parking can be challenging in the area, so plan accordingly.

04
UMe Tea image 1
Bubble tea store

Bubble tea store with colorful pink decor and bunny-themed walls creates a cozy and fun atmosphere. Surprise plushie cups and a miniature Chicago Bean photo spot add unique interactive elements. The vibe suits casual visits and special occasions alike.

Drinks feature unique flavors like mega fruit tea and mochi milk brown sugar boba. Presentation includes cute packaging and the space has an aesthetically pleasing decor.

High quality boba tea features flavors like mango sago and classic boba. The bubble tea tastes great and pairs well with snacks like tofu.

People are saying

"The tea shop is so cute with its pink decor and adorable stuffies."

"I found the boba tea here really good and tasty."

"The boba tea here has such unique and delicious flavors."

Good to know

1

Starting May 15, customers could visit any of the three Chicago stores to try the new drinks.

2

They were celebrating AAPI Month with new drinks and exclusive gifts.

3

There was no bathroom at UMe Tea.

05
Molly Tea (Chicago) image 1
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.

Teas here have a floral flavor that stands out from typical bubble tea. The matcha cheese foam adds a velvety, unique touch, and the Gardenia milk tea offers a distinct, flavorful experience.

Offers bubble tea with a floral flavor that stands out from typical options. The shop features a stylish design and serves delicious, refreshing drinks that make it a go-to spot for bubble tea.

People are saying

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

"The milk teas here are unique, with a real tea flavor."

"This boba tea has a perfect balance of sugar and quality flavors."

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.

06
Daboba image 1
Bubble tea store

Spacious bubble tea shop with cute decorations and many photo spots creates a relaxing vibe. Seating is comfortable and open, avoiding overcrowding to highlight unique decor and souvenirs. The atmosphere feels fresh and cozy, appealing to groups and casual hangouts.

Setup inside feels distinctive with a layout not common elsewhere. Drinks include many unique boba varieties exclusive to this chain.

Wide variety of bubble tea flavors includes classic red tea, taro pearl milk tea, and brown sugar pearl milk tea. Bubbles are consistently well-made and flavorful, with options like brown sugar roasted pearls standing out.

People are saying

"I thought the tea here had a really good flavor."

"This bubble tea spot is so spacious and relaxing."

"I loved the classic boba tea for its red tea bitterness."

Good to know

1

Daboba hosts K-pop and vendor events regularly, offering unique experiences.

2

The cupsleeve event is a fun highlight for bubble tea fans.

3

Oat milk is available as a lactose-free option for drinks.

07
TE'AMO Boba & Dessert. - Chinatown image 1

Small space combines ordering and seating, creating a cozy but sometimes crowded setting. Bright, cute decor with aesthetic design and unique drink packaging sets a welcoming vibe. Music mixes English, Spanish, and Kpop, adding lively energy to the atmosphere.

Drinks come in unique containers, including quality glass jars for coconut jelly. The menu offers distinctive flavors and creative packaging that stand out visually and taste-wise.

Fresh taste and perfect boba ratio stand out in the bubble tea here. The milk boba tea feels very cool and the impressive packing keeps drinks neat and enjoyable.

People are saying

"You have to try the mochi donuts; they're amazing."

"I thought the boba tea here was the best I ever had."

"I found the drinks here to be pretty unique and delicious."

Good to know

1

The shop does not have a bathroom available for customers.

2

They offer a variety of vegan and dairy-free options for drinks.

3

Parking is limited; consider using public transport or rideshare.

08
Seoul Stick image 1
Fast food restaurant

Korean street food spot with authentic flavors and modern, clean decor inspired by Seoul streets. K-pop music videos play on big screens, creating a lively yet comfortable atmosphere. Limited space feels cozy, enhanced by a photo booth that adds a nostalgic touch.

Injeolmi Corn Dog offers a grainy, slightly sweet flavor with a milk glaze and unique powder. The space feels different and trendy, and the boba's popping balls add a distinct touch.

Flavors come insanely bold with options like pineapple and blueberry bubble tea packed with fruit taste. Strawberry bubble tea includes popping boba and chunks of strawberry for a smoothie-like texture.

People are saying

"The Korean corn dog's outside was nice and crunchy."

"The Boba Tea here is very good, along with the corn dogs."

"The food here is delicious, authentic, and unique."

Good to know

1

Parking is difficult; plan to arrive early or use public transport.

2

The wait time is short, even during busy hours.

3

Prices are affordable, making it a great option for street food.

09
TE'AMO Boba & Desserts - Navy Pier image 1

Bright, clean space with casual Go & Grab vibe and aesthetic appeal. Friendly atmosphere with fast kiosk ordering and occasional promotions. Known for fresh boba and flavorful mochi donuts alongside unique ube coconut desserts.

Drinks come in a unique cup with a pop top that stands out. The boba is delicious and the flavors are bold and flavorful.

Chewy boba stands out in the drinks, especially in the Daltons Coffee Boba tea with 50% sugar. The Espresso boba tea offers a unique flavor, and ordering is simple with easy customization options.

People are saying

"I loved their strawberry milk tea, it was amazing!"

"I thought the boba teas here were the best."

"I loved the unique cups used for the delicious boba."

Good to know

1

Expect a 10-minute wait for drinks during peak hours.

2

The ordering process is done entirely through a touchscreen tablet.

3

A promotion offers a free drink or donut after leaving a review.

10
AUTEA SWEETS & EATS image 1

Spacious restaurant with cozy, kitschy atmosphere and year-round Christmas decor creates an inviting space. Games like claw machines and board games add a playful touch alongside free wifi and outlets. Cleanliness and unique decor make it a comfortable spot to hang out.

Giant desserts come with unique flavor profiles and generous toppings. A vast drink menu and photo-ready decor add to the distinct vibe.

Offers exotic bubble tea with various flavor combinations, sweetness levels, and toppings. Serves hot boba tea with no sugar and delivers consistently perfect boba tea.

People are saying

"I thought the desserts were very good and tasty."

"I found the bubble tea here to be the best."

"The Orchid Latte Milk Tea is uniquely delicious and rich."

Good to know

1

Free parking is available, making it convenient for gatherings with friends.

2

Expect a 10-15 minute wait time during peak hours.

3

A combo deal includes a crispy rice pot and a drink for $16.99.

11
TE'AMO Boba & Dessert - Northbridge Mall image 1

Bubble tea shop inside a mall with an open seating area and quiet, chill atmosphere. Drinks come in unique soda can-style cups that stand out visually. Space offers plenty of seating with outlets, making it suitable for casual meetups or relaxed work sessions.

Unique drinks come in soda can containers that look cool and different. The menu offers distinctive flavors and the mochi donut stands out as a special treat.

Boba tea features perfectly chewy pearls and rich, flavorful tea with no need to adjust sugar or toppings. Unique options like the Oreo Coffee Smoothie stand out for their taste and quality.

People are saying

"The mochi donuts are so soft and chewy."

"I thought the boba tea here was one of the best I've tried."

"I thought the boba tea here was amazing and delicious."

Good to know

1

TE'AMO Boba & Dessert is located on the 4th floor of the Nordstrom mall.

2

Drinks cost between $7-8, served in unique soda can packaging.

3

There is a deal for a free drink after writing a review post-purchase.

12
Gangnam Market image 1
Grocery store

Neon lights and gacha machines create a vibrant, playful atmosphere in this Asian grocery store. A food court with diverse offerings and a bar with crafted cocktails add to the lively energy. The space blends unique aesthetics with a casual, fun vibe that feels more American Asian market than traditional.

Many unique snacks and drinks fill the shelves, including flavors of Kit Kats and Oreos not found elsewhere. The store offers a diverse selection of imported items with a clean and authentic vibe.

Strong but balanced iced brown sugar oat milk latte with caramel syrup and tapioca stands out. The food court offers a small selection of delicious boba teas that pair well with shopping.

People are saying

"This grocery store has an amazing selection of snacks and Asian ingredients."

"I found so many unique imported snacks and drinks here."

"I found a great selection of Boba Tea and other Asian groceries here."

Good to know

1

On Tuesdays, enjoy discounts at the taco stall; Wednesdays feature rice stall discounts.

2

Thursdays offer ramen stall discounts, making it a great day to visit.

3

Certain stalls offer 50% off on three days of the week.

13
Kurimu wicker park image 1
Ice cream shop

Ice cream shop offers a cozy, warm interior with peanut-themed decor and a half-level indoor seating area. Atmosphere feels hip and efficient, creating a chill spot to hang out. Unique ice cream flavors stand out amid a modern, clean design.

Many ice cream flavors stand out with black sesame, Ube, and mango sticky rice options. Unique choices like passion fruit cheesecake and Thai iced tea add to the variety, along with a mochi topping.

Soft serve pairs well with the bubble teas here. The boba texture stands out as enjoyable, though the tea itself varies in quality.

People are saying

"The soft serve ice cream here is really yummy and great quality."

"The ice cream flavors here are so unique, like purple yam and black sesame."

"The boba tea here is so cute, I couldn't find varieties like it elsewhere."

Good to know

1

There are no public restrooms available at Kurimu Wicker Park.

2

Street parking can be difficult to find in this busy area.

3

Expect to pay around $8 for two scoops of ice cream.

14
Sweet Rice Chicago image 1
Asian restaurant

Casual Thai restaurant with quirky cat robot servers creates a laid-back, street food vibe indoors and outdoors. The atmosphere feels comfortable and chill, blending novelty with authentic touches. Frequented for its fresh, flavorful dishes and relaxed setting.

A food court style setup lets you order everything via QR code. The Sweet Rice Durian dessert blends warm coconut sauce, creamy durian, and sticky rice that soaks up all the flavors.

A robot cat delivers the boba tea, adding a unique touch to the experience. The boba tea itself tastes great and comes from a small stand.

People are saying

"The durian sticky rice dessert has a sweet, beautiful texture."

"The khao soi chicken is uniquely good with some heat."

"I thought the boba tea was great."

Good to know

1

The kitchen closes at 8:45 pm on weekdays, so plan your visit accordingly.

2

The menu does not clearly indicate allergens, so ask staff if you have dietary restrictions.

3

Sweet Rice allows customers to bring their own alcohol, enhancing the dining experience.

15
Rainbow Boba Tea image 1

Small space with colorful art and Instagram-worthy spots creates a cozy, vibrant atmosphere. Energy stays chill yet pumped, making it ideal for chatting with friends or relaxing. Menu offers customizable bubble tea and unique treats like Korean corn dogs.

Offers unique flavors that stand out in bubble tea. The Rainbow Boba Tea provides a fun, tasty experience with a comforting taste.

Offers a flavorful variety of boba teas with premium ingredients and exceptional customer service. The atmosphere feels cozy and inviting, making it a great spot to enjoy bubble tea with friends.

People are saying

"I loved their boba fruit tea; it was so refreshing."

"I thought this was the best boba tea I had ever had."

"The bubble waffle is crispy outside, soft inside, and perfectly sweet."

Good to know

1

Rainbow Boba Tea offers over 40 different drinks to choose from.

2

Customers can customize their drinks with various flavors and toppings.

3

Hygiene standards have improved under new management.

16
Living Water Tea House image 1

Space offers a calm ambiance with natural lighting and beautiful teaware that creates a cozy, welcoming vibe. Soft instrumental jazz plays quietly while people enjoy tea tastings at the bar or work quietly. The atmosphere resembles a peaceful retreat, ideal for tea lovers seeking a serene escape.

Milk teas stand out with a unique flavor like the Puer milk tea, which feels comforting. The menu includes unique tea desserts alongside the drinks.

Honey orchid stands out as a distinctive flavor in the boba tea selection. Tea and bubble tea options consistently deliver reliable quality.

People are saying

"I loved the personalized tea tasting experience and learning about each tea."

"I found the loose leaf Chinese teas here to be the finest available."

"The Puer milk tea here has a unique, comforting flavor."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for tea tastings, especially on weekends.

2

The tea tasting experience lasts about two hours and includes nine different teas.

3

The owner provides detailed explanations about the sourcing and uniqueness of each tea.

17
OverLay image 1
Coffee shop

Coffee shop with cute, colorful decor and board games available for play creates a cozy, fun vibe. Seating includes a relaxing couch area and outlets for convenience. Ambient music plays softly, making it a good spot for casual hangouts.

Drinks feature unique flavors with balanced espresso shots that avoid any burnt taste. The variety of tasty and distinctive drinks stands out consistently.

Offers a wide variety of boba and fruit flavored teas with fresh boba. The dark brown sugar milk and Thai tea flavors stand out for their great taste and natural flavor.

People are saying

"The coffee drinks here are unique, tasty, and perfectly balanced."

"The unique drinks here are amazing and tasty."

"The boba tea here has great flavors and fresh boba."

Good to know

1

OverLay closes at 7:30 pm.

2

Street parking is available, but it can be tough due to the main street location.

3

There is a 15-minute loading zone nearby for quick stops.

18
Minyoli image 1
Taiwanese restaurant

Space blends simple decor with Taiwanese cultural references and a welcoming outdoor patio. Atmosphere stays cozy and peaceful, evoking a small Taiwanese restaurant feel. Cocktails show creative twists on classics, complementing authentic dishes like handmade noodles and fried chicken.

Cocktails feature unique Taiwanese ingredients like sour plum shrub and Hawthorne berry, creating complex, well-balanced flavors. Food includes distinctive vegan options and Taiwanese noodle soup with detailed flavor nuances.

Freshly made oolong bubble tea features a charcoal-roasted aroma and perfectly cooked tapioca pearls. The drink matches the quality of Taiwanese shops and stands out as a delicious treat.

People are saying

"The food here is soulful, authentic, and incredibly flavorful."

"The fried chicken here is so crispy, juicy, and flavorful."

"The bubble tea here is excellent, with freshly made oolong."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers $1, $2, and $3 off for beer, wine, and cocktails.

2

Brunch service is only available on Sundays, so plan accordingly.

3

Reservations are recommended due to high demand, especially on weekends.

19
TE'AMO Boba & Dessert - Hyde Park image 1

Open space with cozy atmosphere and clean environment invites quiet study or relaxed chats. Music plays at a comfortable volume, supporting a chill vibe that feels family friendly. Unique packaging and drink variety add to the distinct experience.

Great variety stands out with matcha donuts, crepe cakes, and cheesecake buns. Unique boba flavors come in creative packaging.

Boba tea here is refreshing and comes in flavors like matcha with Crรจme brรปlรฉe and brown sugar tea. Drinks tend to be on the sweeter side and cost about $31 for three 12oz servings before tip.

People are saying

"The boba tea here is refreshing and tasty."

"I found the boba tea here to be great and refreshing."

"Their unique bobas and desserts are so creative."

Good to know

1

Payment is smooth with digital wallets accepted at the kiosk.

2

Prices for drinks can be high, with some items over $10.

3

Half the drinks may be sold out on busy days, so check availability.

20
Oriental Tea image 1
Chinese tea house

Small tea house with vibrant decor featuring cherry blossom branches and colorful walls creates a whimsical atmosphere. Space feels cozy but crowded, with seating for intimate or group hangouts. Offers traditional clothing to try on, adding a unique cultural touch to the experience.

Unique decor sets the tone with a welcoming atmosphere. The durian latte stands out as a bold drink choice. An impressive selection of high-quality teas from China offers a distinct sensory journey.

Quality bubble tea stands out with a strong focus on matcha boba tea and a solid selection of boba teas. The drinks consistently taste delicious and pair well with rolled ice cream.

People are saying

"I loved their fruit tea and bubble tea."

"It's a cozy spot with a beautiful, inviting interior."

"I thought the bubble tea was always delicious and pretty good."

Good to know

1

Seats are limited, especially during peak hours.

2

Expect longer wait times during summer months.

3

Ordering is easy, and they accept cash payments.

21
Legend Tasty House image 1
Ice cream shop

Medium-sized ice cream shop with rolled ice cream prepared in front of customers creates an engaging experience. The atmosphere is bustling and family-friendly, often crowded with limited seating. Decor is modern and cozy, supporting a lively vibe where many enjoy sweet treats together.

Unique flavors and a fun presentation stand out here. The ice cream is done in a unique way that is both delicious and visually appealing.

Bubble tea offers green matcha and Thai flavors with options for rolled ice cream. Tapioca pearls sometimes taste dry and lack texture, and sweetness can be high in the Thai boba tea.

People are saying

"The rolled ice cream here is super tasty and fun to watch being made."

"The ice cream here is unique, with fun flavors and whimsical toppings."

"I found the boba tea here to be delicious."

Good to know

1

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

2

Parking can be difficult; plan to arrive early or use nearby lots.

3

You can customize your ice cream order at the kiosk upfront.

22
Tiger Sugar image 1
Bubble tea store

Bubble tea and fried chicken share space in a compact shop with cute tiger decor and limited seating. The atmosphere mixes lively music with the strong smell of fried food, creating a unique sensory experience. Ordering involves multiple kiosks, which can cause confusion during busy times.

Rich, black milk tea stands out with its unique flavor. Small boba pearls add a different texture compared to other bubble tea spots.

Brown sugar bubble tea stands out with its rich, indulgent flavor and fresh boba. Drinks balance sweetness well and offer a premium, visually stunning experience.

People are saying

"The boba tea here has amazing quality and fresh boba."

"I thought the boba tea here was amazing and creamy."

"The bubble tea here is so unique and rich."

Good to know

1

The ordering process involves three kiosks, which can cause confusion.

2

Seating is limited, accommodating only 4 to 8 people.

3

Parking is available right across the street.

23
Mambo Wings image 1
Asian restaurant

Small Asian restaurant offers a quiet, friendly atmosphere with a student-friendly vibe. The space feels comfortable and cute, featuring tables and a kiosk for ordering. Known for delicious fried chicken wings and thoughtful sauce presentation, it balances great flavors with affordable prices.

Beverages stand out for being both unique and affordable. Fries come with a sweet-salty seasoning that is quite distinctive. Food overall has a very unique taste that may not appeal to everyone.

An impressive selection of boba tea offers a variety of flavors like mango, Oreo, and strawberry swirl. The bubble tea pairs well with savory dishes and features delicious toppings.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and of amazing quality."

"They served delicious wings and had a variety of Boba Tea options."

"The wings here are uniquely crispy and juicy."

Good to know

1

You can order at the counter or through the kiosk on the right.

2

I paid just over $5 for 6 juicy wings, which I considered a great deal.

3

Serving the sauce on the side helps preserve the wings' crispiness.

Discover more

Chicago, Illinois

Area guide
Loading Map...