Downtown Brooklyn sees rise in bubble tea shops offering customizable drinks

Regina Myer, President at Downtown Brooklyn Partnership
Regina Myer, President at Downtown Brooklyn Partnership
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A growing number of bubble tea shops are opening in Downtown Brooklyn, offering a variety of customizable and quick drinks for people on the go, according to a May 13 announcement. The area now features several locations serving sweet beverages that cater to different tastes and preferences.

The popularity of boba reflects changing consumer habits, with more people seeking unique drink options and convenient snacks as part of their daily routines. The range of new stores highlights both global brands and local favorites, giving residents and visitors many choices.

Debutea at 71 Smith Street is among the early adopters bringing fresh-made natural tea drinks to the U.S., focusing on high-quality ingredients. Gong Cha at 136 Willoughby Street is an international chain founded in Taiwan with over 2,100 locations worldwide; its Downtown Brooklyn branch offers an extensive menu including popular items like Earl Grey Milk Tea with 3 Js. Heytea at 52 Willoughby Street has expanded quickly since arriving in New York in 2023, gaining fans for its fruit teas and cheese foam specialties such as Yingde Cheese Milk Tea.

Other notable spots include I’Milky at 105 Court Street, which uses locally sourced fresh farm milk for its signature milk teas and serves riceballs alongside beverages; Kung Fu Tea at 80 Livingston Street offers both hot and cold specialty drinks; Mixue at 519 Fulton Street draws crowds with low prices on soft serve ice cream and boba; Vivi Bubble Tea at 113 Court Street maintains a retro Taiwanese atmosphere while serving classic snacks like Popcorn Chicken; Yaya Tea at 80 Dekalb Avenue provides Japanese-inspired riceballs near Brooklyn Paramount; Chun Yang Tea at 402 Jay Street emphasizes authentic Taiwanese flavors using fresh fruits and organic milk.

This wave of new openings shows how Downtown Brooklyn is becoming a destination for those looking to try different styles of bubble tea or enjoy familiar favorites. With so many options available within walking distance, customers can easily find something that suits their taste.



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