Top 5 Bubble Tea Near Edwardsville, IL

1) OR Smoothie and Cafe

Our Review of OR Smoothie and Cafe in Edwardsville, IL

Upon my first visit to this cherished bubble tea spot, I was pleasantly surprised. Nestled amongst familiar streets, this place is a hidden gem that I’ve unknowingly passed by seemingly countless times. The sense of discovery added a delightful novelty to my visit, setting my expectations high.

Much to my satisfaction, the first item I tried did not disappoint. The lychee boba tea, a standout amongst their selection, boasts a delightful balance of sweet, fruity flavors, enhanced by the complementary chewy texture of the boba. The boba pearls, often an overlooked component, are expertly prepared here. They offer just the right amount of resistance, creating a charmingly satisfying mouthfeel that enhances the entire experience.

What truly distinguishes this location though, is its admirable diversity in the menu. Encountering their mean green popper smoothie was like finding a soulmate for my recent juicing endeavors. It’s a refreshing option that caters to those seeking healthier alternatives, demonstrating a thoughtfulness in menu selection that makes this place stand out in a crowd of generic franchises. It’s the kind of place that encourages you to try something new, while also satisfying the need for a classic boba fix.

The store also notably serves an irresistible happy bowl. This signature item is so delicious that it has become my go-to whenever a craving strikes. Such a dish, in my opinion, maintains a certain allure that keeps pulling me back, time and again.

Visiting the shop in person further reinforces its appeal. The atmosphere and setting contribute to a delightful experience, making it not just a delivery option but also a must-visit destination.

Overall, this bubble tea spot is more than just a place to grab a quick drink. It’s a local establishment that deserves all support, effortlessly combining variety, quality, and service. For both the bubble tea aficionado and the health-conscious customer, this place checks all the right boxes and well worth a visit.

2) Cafe de Blaire

Our Review of Cafe de Blaire in Edwardsville, IL

After experiencing the bubble tea at this location, I’ve been left utterly delighted. The taste was genuinely delightful, and when paired with their exemplary service and the cozy ambiance, the experience was enhanced tenfold. It’s evident that the people behind this spot know what they’re doing, from their unique bubble tea concoctions to their ability to create a friendly, welcoming environment.

On my visit, I decided to indulge in a caramel macchiato, and let me tell you, it was the kind of stuff dreams are made of. It had just the right blend of espresso and milk. It was the perfect pick me up I needed, making it clear that they had put thought into their milk to espresso ratio.

An extra spice to this experience was the friendly staff. I’ve been to many places and I must say, the staff here is by far up there with the best. They are affable, offering suggestions that genuinely enhance your experience and the food and drinks they create, are, in a word, outstanding.

Overall, this is a little slice of bubble tea heaven, and I’m eagerly looking forward to my next visit. I can confidently say that I’ll be coming back for more of their divine bubble tea, warm atmosphere, and engaging service.

3) My Bowl Korean BBQ

Our Review of My Bowl Korean BBQ in Edwardsville, IL

My bubble tea adventure takes me to this lovely spot tucked away in the city. One can’t help but appreciate the quick and excellent service offered here, particularly during the bustling lunch hours. The staff certainly knows how to manage the ebb and flow of customers.

Something that caught my attention was the authenticity of the setting. It radiates warmth and gives you the feeling of being in a family-ran eatery, with a relaxing ambiance that makes you feel right at home.

Taking a sip of their bubble tea, it’s clear that their beverage game is on par with their top-notch service. The tea offers a delightful fusion of flavors that dance on my palate effortlessly. Complementing their drinks, the food at this location is simply delicious. The Korean BBQ particularly stands out and is something you should consider adding to your must-try list.

A small caveat, however, there’s a slight disappointment with the absence of free refills, potentially for their Bulgogi. This, however, does little to cloud the overall culinary experience this place offers.

In light of everything, I’d score their food a solid 9 out of 10. Their bubble tea, meanwhile, is an experience in and of itself, and serves as the perfect crown to a pleasing repast.

In summary, the amalgamation of great service, authentic atmosphere, and tasty offerings makes for a delightful bubble tea experience that is well worth the wait. This place definitely merits a visit for all bubble tea enthusiasts out there. Remember, however, to manage your refill expectations.

4) Kung Fu Tea

Our Review of Kung Fu Tea in Edwardsville, IL

Upon visiting this trendy bubble tea spot, one can’t help but notice the charming decor and inviting seating arrangement, invitingly cozy for a chill catch-up session with friends. The staff’s remarkable friendliness stands out, swiftly serving up your desired beverage with a heartwarming smile – a perfect example that quick service doesn’t have to compromise on pleasantries.

While their bubble tea menu is quite vast, a standout would definitely be their slushies. Bursting with vibrant flavors, there is something uniquely satisfying about these frosty treats. These aren’t your average 7/11 slushies, Kung Fu Tea’s slushies are a whole new ball game. They are a commendable alternative for those who might not be big fans of milk tea.

As for the bubble tea, it’s interesting to note that despite being part of a chain, this particular location seems to have its own distinct taste. Comparatively, it is different, but it’s hard to precisely pinpoint if it leans more towards a positive or a negative deviation. The taste is unique, proving that consistency doesn’t always have to mean homogeneity.

In summary, if you are in the mood for an ambiance that is both delightful and laid-back, with a side of wonderfully frosty slush or a uniquely flavoured bubble tea, this Kung Fu Tea location is well worth the visit.

5) Cube Tea Studio

Our Review of Cube Tea Studio in Edwardsville, IL

Walking into this bubble tea joint, one instantly feels a sense of excitement, and it’s not hard to see why – this place knows its boba. From the extensive, albeit slightly confusing, menu selection down to the delightfully sweet and refreshing drinks, it is undoubtedly a bubble tea haven.

Among the myriad of drink options, the toasted caramel crème brûlée is an absolute standout. It encapsulates the perfect blend of sweetness and chill, offering a unique escape from the scorching summer heat. Sipping on it is like tasting a little piece of paradise, a caramel-infused heaven.

The boba itself is masterfully crafted, the pearls are tender and the perfect level of chewiness; every bite is a delightful surprise, like popping little pockets of clouds in your mouth. There’s just something about slurping on these tiny globes of gelatinous joy that takes this drink from good to great.

However, navigating the menu can be slightly bewildering, especially for the first-timers. This in no way diminishes the taste of their offerings, but a little more clarity would certainly enhance the overall customer experience.

Despite the slight hiccup with the menu, the staff is amicable and diligent, adding a warm and inviting touch to the overall experience. With refreshing drinks that seem to carry the essence of the season in them, this is easily one of the top boba places I’ve had the pleasure of visiting.

Simply put, this boba spot isn’t just a place to quench your thirst; it’s an experience, a journey of flavors waiting to be explored. So if you find yourself in the downtown area, don’t miss the opportunity to step into this little gem of a place. I promise, your taste buds will thank you!