Top 5 Bubble Tea Near Santa Monica, CA

1) Oakobing

Our Review of Oakobing in Santa Monica, CA

Stepping into this place, you’re instantly hit with an alluring aroma that screams ‘sweet indulgence’. It’s a bubbling hub of bubble tea and bingsoo enthusiasts. The venue prides itself on crafting a myriad of size options that suit different tastes and appetites, making it an incredibly accommodating location for everyone.

One thing that definitely jumps out is the absolute burst of fruity flavor, which is nothing short of a party in your mouth. A delightful treat that can easily make any bubble tea lovers’ heart skip a beat. The playful combination of these fruity infusions captures the essence of summer, an outright crowd-pleaser to say the least.

If you’re one for adventure, the bingsoo is something not to be missed. It is absolutely delicious, kissed with a note of sweetness that is neither too overpowering nor too underwhelming. Every mouthful leaves you craving for more, easily turning first-timers into repeat customers.

Did I mention the gummy? It’s the proverbial cherry on top, adding texture and a fun element to the already tantalizing mix. It leaves a lingering taste of happiness that makes it so easy to fall in love with.

This location has quickly made a name for itself and has become a popular spot for many. It’s not surprising to see it bustling with eager customers, all in search of the perfect bubble tea. So whether you’re a pro at pronouncing the name, a sweet tooth junkie or just looking for a new place to chill, this spot has got you covered!

2) Volcano Tea House

Our Review of Volcano Tea House in Santa Monica, CA

After spending some time at this bubble tea location, I must say, it has quickly become one of my favourite spots in the Sawtelle area. What sets it apart is its impressive array of toppings and the provision of snacks as well, perfect for a late-night munch! It’s not just a bubble tea joint; it’s also a splendid hangout spot. Opens till midnight, it is a respite for all night owls like me out there!

A personal favourite and a recommendation would be their passion fruit green tea. The boba having just the right texture – not too squishy, not too hard. The tea, while pretty standard in taste, was refreshing nonetheless. However, do note that they only accept cash or Venmo as their payment methods.

The price point, I have to admit, leans more towards the pricier end being at $6.50 per order. But trust me, it’s worth the bucks! The one drawback would be their parking situation which can be a bit of a hassle. But that’s a small price to pay for good bubble tea!

Lastly, if you find yourself in the area, perhaps waiting for a friend’s flight to land at LAX, this is a great place to kill some time. Its late-night hours make it a convenient pit stop for any unexpected delays.

To sum up, this place is an absolute treasure for boba lovers who are looking for variety, convenience and a cool place to hang out!

3) Berlins

Our Review of Berlins in Santa Monica, CA

In my honest opinion, the bubble tea at this spot is a hidden gem in LA. It’s an affordable indulgence in a landscape heavily marked by inflation. Furthermore, it has garnered a following from the clientele of the previous business, suggesting its undeniable appeal and justification of its popularity.

One of the key elements of this place that stood out to me is their fusion of offering not only bubble tea but also savory offerings like the succulent beef lamb wrap, which I found pleasantly substantial. The flavorful wrap complements the sweet and refreshing bubble tea brilliantly.

The taste profile of the bubble tea is something I want to highlight. It’s gratifyingly authentic, delivering what I think is pretty darn close to the real thing! Whether it’s the drink or the tantalizing sauce they offer, both score high on my taste radar.

However, it’s worth mentioning that the ambiance of the location may leave some room for improvement. While not quite hitting the mark, it hardly detracts from the overall pleasurable experience, especially when the staff is so warm and welcoming.

In conclusion, whether you’re looking for an inexpensive treat, a refreshing bubble tea, or just a hearty wrap, this spot ticks all the boxes. Make sure to give it a try, I’m betting it won’t disappoint!

4) Boba Bear

Our Review of Boba Bear in Santa Monica, CA

Upon stepping into this haven of bubble tea enthusiasm, you are instantly greeted with a warm and friendly atmosphere that effortlessly envelops you. The vivacious energy within the establishment correlates with the speedy service that never fails to impress. Despite the buzzing environment, it still manages to maintain a relaxed vibe, making it an ideal spot for casual hangouts or weekend chill sessions.

One of the standout elements is the remarkably amiable staff, particularly a certain individual named Eduardo. His jovial personality coupled with his top-notch service is truly heartwarming. It’s rare to find such meticulous attention to detail where each patron is not only a customer but becomes a part of the family.

Delving into their menu, their bubble tea, in particular, holds a divine taste that tantalizes your tastebuds. The ‘Peaches and Cream Extreme’ comes highly recommended. A beautiful amalgamation of fruity and creamy flavors that embody the perfect bubble tea experience.

Equally as captivating, is the background music set to a great tune, creating a pleasant ambiance that further enhances the overall experience. Quite simply, it is a place where the very walls seem to hum in tune with the delights served.

In retrospect, this bubble tea locale leaves a lasting impression. With its delightful beverages, speedy and hospitable service, and an engaging atmosphere, it’s unequivocally a hidden gem that I regretted not discovering sooner. An absolute must-visit for bubble tea enthusiasts and amateurs alike, you’re bound to make this your regular haunt before your first visit concludes.

5) Pearl’s Finest Teas

Our Review of Pearl’s Finest Teas in Santa Monica, CA

Pearls Finest Tea, nestled in the heart of Fairfax, hosts a welcoming team, ready to assist you with a fully customizable bubble tea experience. My visit to this shop made my taste buds dance, they offer a varied selection that is apt to satisfy anyone’s preference. Even though the drinks indeed exude a delightful flavor, I must admit the pearls didn’t quite hit the mark this time around. They seemed to lack the signature chewiness that you would expect in a boba tea, and seemed not as fresh.

The prices seem to align with the quality of the drinks, however, the experience could have been a bit more rewarding had the pearls been perfect. Fairfax appeared a bit quieter than I remember, a stark contrast from its once lively atmosphere. Despite this, Pearls Finest Tea still stands out and keeps the bubble tea legacy alive, continuing to serve something splendidly yum and refreshing, albeit with a few shortcomings.

In essence, this place is certainly worth visiting if you’re in the mood for some good tea, just keep your fingers crossed for the pearls. Despite minor inconveniences, Pearls Finest Tea still ranks very high on my list of bubble tea joints.