Milk Tea Shops: A Guide to the Best Spots in the Philippines
Milk tea shops have become increasingly popular in recent years, offering a refreshing and flavorful alternative to traditional tea and coffee shops. These shops specialize in serving a variety of milk tea drinks, which typically consist of tea mixed with milk and sweeteners such as sugar or honey. Milk tea comes in various flavors, such as classic black tea, green tea, and fruit-infused teas.
Many milk tea shops also offer a range of toppings and add-ins, such as tapioca pearls, jelly, and fruit bits, to enhance the flavor and texture of the drinks. These toppings can be customized to suit individual preferences, making milk tea a versatile and personalized drink option. Milk tea shops often have a cozy and inviting atmosphere, making them a popular spot for socializing and relaxing.
Origins of Milk Tea
Milk tea, also known as bubble tea, is a popular beverage that originated in Taiwan in the early 1980s. It is believed that Liu Han-Chieh and Lin Hsiu Hui of Chun Shui Tang, a popular teahouse chain in Taichung, Taiwan, were the first to make cold milk tea after being inspired by iced coffee on a trip to Japan. The unique taste and combination of tea and milk quickly caught on, and soon local milk tea shops started popping up.
Milk tea is typically made by mixing black tea with milk and sugar, and then adding tapioca pearls or other ingredients such as fruit or jelly. The tea used in milk tea can vary, with popular varieties including Assam, Oolong, Jasmine, and more. In some regions, such as Okinawa and Hokkaido, green tea is used instead.
Over the years, milk tea has become a staple in many parts of Asia, including Thailand, where it is often served with condensed milk. In recent years, it has also gained popularity in other parts of the world, including the United States and Europe.
One popular variation of milk tea is charcoal roasted milk tea, which is made by roasting the tea leaves over charcoal before brewing. This gives the tea a smoky flavor and aroma that is highly sought after by tea enthusiasts.
Popular Milk Tea Shops
Milk tea has become a popular beverage in the Philippines, and there are several milk tea shops that have gained a loyal following. Here are some of the most popular milk tea shops in the country:
Gong Cha
Gong Cha is a Taiwanese-based brand that has been operating in the Philippines since 2009. They offer a wide variety of milk tea flavors, including the classic milk tea, wintermelon, and brown sugar milk tea. Gong Cha is known for their use of high-quality ingredients, such as fresh milk and premium tea leaves.
Coco
Coco is a popular Taiwanese chain of beverage shops that specializes in fresh tea and juice. They have been operating in the Philippines since 2013 and have become known for their unique blends of milk tea flavors, such as the salted caramel milk tea and the 3 Buddies milk tea. Coco also offers a variety of toppings, such as pearls and pudding, to add extra flavor and texture to their drinks.
Serenitea
Serenitea is known as the OG milk tea shop in the Philippines, having opened its first branch in 2008. They offer a wide variety of milk tea flavors, including the Hokkaido, Wintermelon, and Okinawa milk tea. Serenitea is also known for their sinkers, such as nata, black pearls, and egg pudding, which add a unique twist to their drinks.
Macao Imperial Tea
Macao Imperial Tea is a relatively new player in the milk tea scene, having opened its first branch in 2017. However, they have quickly gained a following for their unique flavors, such as the Cream Cheese Milk Tea and the Cheesecake and Pearl Milk Tea. Macao Imperial Tea also offers a variety of other drinks, such as fruit teas and coffee.
Chatime
Chatime is another Taiwanese-based brand that has been operating in the Philippines since 2011. They offer a wide variety of milk tea flavors, such as the classic milk tea and the chocolate milk tea. Chatime is known for their use of high-quality tea leaves and their unique blends of flavors.
Dakasi
Dakasi is a popular milk tea shop that originated in Taiwan and has been operating in the Philippines since 2012. They offer a wide variety of milk tea flavors, such as the Brown Sugar Milk Tea and the Matcha Milk Tea. Dakasi is also known for their use of fresh milk and their unique toppings, such as cheese foam and red bean.
Tiger Sugar
Tiger Sugar is a Taiwanese-based brand that has gained a following in the Philippines for their unique Brown Sugar Boba Milk drinks. Their drinks are known for their distinct tiger stripe pattern, which is created by the brown sugar syrup used in the drink.
Happy Lemon
Happy Lemon is a Chinese-based brand that has been operating in the Philippines since 2010. They offer a wide variety of milk tea flavors, such as the Milk Tea with Oreo and the Matcha Latte. Happy Lemon is known for their use of fresh ingredients and their unique blends of flavors.
Tokyo Bubble Tea
Tokyo Bubble Tea is a popular milk tea shop that originated in the Philippines. They offer a wide variety of milk tea flavors, such as the Taro Milk Tea and the Strawberry Milk Tea. Tokyo Bubble Tea is known for their use of fresh fruit and their unique toppings, such as popping boba and aloe vera.
Yi Fang
Yi Fang is a Taiwanese-based brand that has been operating in the Philippines since 2018. They offer a wide variety of milk tea flavors, such as the Brown Sugar Pearl Milk Tea and the Passion Fruit Green Tea. Yi Fang is known for their use of fresh fruit and their unique blends of flavors.
Infinitea
Infinitea is a popular milk tea shop that originated in the Philippines. They offer a wide variety of milk tea flavors, such as the Wintermelon Milk Tea and the Okinawa Milk Tea. Infinitea is known for their use of fresh ingredients and their unique blends of flavors.
The Alley
The Alley is a Taiwanese-based brand that has gained a following in the Philippines for their unique Brown Sugar Deerioca Series drinks. Their drinks are known for their use of fresh milk and their distinct deer-shaped tapioca pearls.
Coco Fresh Tea & Juice
Coco Fresh Tea & Juice is a popular Taiwanese chain of beverage shops that specializes in fresh tea and juice. They have been operating in the Philippines since 2013 and have become known for their unique blends of milk tea flavors, such as the Salted Caramel Milk Tea and the 3 Buddies Milk Tea. Coco also offers a variety of toppings, such as pearls and pudding, to add extra flavor and texture to their drinks.
Moonleaf
With its delicious and refreshing beverages, Moonleaf Tea Shop has become a beloved staple among milk tea enthusiasts in the Philippines. Boasting over 80 branches located in key locations nationwide, Moonleaf is one of the fastest-expanding Asian tea brands in the country. Every Moonleaf branch is operated by Emerald Leaf Franchising Corporation or its franchisees and is carefully designed to ensure consistent and quality service. Whether you’re a fan of classic milk tea flavors or something a bit more unique, Moonleaf Tea Shop has something for everyone.
Varieties of Milk Tea
Milk tea is a popular beverage that comes in various flavors and styles. Some of the most popular varieties of milk tea include:
Bubble Tea
Bubble tea, also known as pearl milk tea, is a Taiwanese tea-based drink that typically contains milk, sugar, and chewy tapioca balls. It comes in a variety of flavors, including fruit teas, coffee, and macao imperial tea.
Black Tea
Black tea is a type of tea that is more oxidized than green, oolong, and white teas. It has a stronger flavor and contains more caffeine. Some popular black tea-based milk teas include Okinawa milk tea and creme brulee.
Green Tea
Green tea is a type of tea that is made from Camellia sinensis leaves and buds that have not undergone the same withering and oxidation process used to make oolong teas and black teas. It has a lighter flavor and contains less caffeine. Some popular green tea-based milk teas include matcha and jasmine green tea.
Fruit Teas
Fruit teas are made by steeping fruits, herbs, and spices in hot water. They can be enjoyed hot or cold and come in a variety of flavors, such as wintermelon tea and taro milk tea.
Brown Sugar Boba Milk
Brown sugar boba milk is a popular milk tea that originated in Taiwan. It is made with brown sugar syrup, tapioca pearls, and milk. Some variations of this drink include brown sugar boba milk with cream mousse and brown sugar pearl tea latte.
Thai Milk Tea
Thai milk tea is a sweet and creamy tea that is made with black tea, condensed milk, and spices such as star anise, vanilla, and cardamom. It is often served over ice and garnished with mint leaves.
Rock Salt and Cheese
Rock salt and cheese is a type of milk tea that originated in Taiwan. It is made with a layer of cream cheese foam on top of a tea base. The foam is seasoned with salt and sugar and gives the drink a salty-sweet flavor.
Creamy Milk Tea
Creamy milk tea is a type of milk tea that is made with a creamy base, such as soy milk or almond milk. It is often sweetened with sugar and comes in a variety of flavors, such as charcoal roasted milk tea and halo halo milk tea.
Overall, milk tea is a versatile and delicious beverage that can be enjoyed in a variety of flavors and styles.
Key Ingredients
Milk tea is a popular drink that has gained a lot of popularity in recent years. It is a combination of tea, milk, and other ingredients that give it a unique taste. The key ingredients used in milk tea vary from shop to shop, but some are common across all shops.
Tea
The tea used in milk tea is an essential ingredient that gives it its unique flavor. The most commonly used tea is black tea, such as Assam, Earl Grey, or English Breakfast. However, some milk tea shops also offer green tea, such as Oolong, and white tea, such as chamomile or jasmine. The tea is brewed and then mixed with milk and other ingredients to create the final product.
Milk
Milk is another essential ingredient in milk tea. It is used to create a creamy texture and to balance out the strong flavor of the tea. Most milk tea shops use fresh milk, but some also use condensed milk or cream cheese to create a richer flavor.
Pearls and Sinkers
Pearls and sinkers are the chewy toppings that are added to milk tea. The most popular type of pearls is boba, also known as tapioca pearls. Other types of pearls include black pearls, sago, and nata de coco. Sinkers are a newer addition to milk tea and include toppings such as coconut jelly, kundol, and egg pudding.
Fresh Fruits
Fresh fruits are also a popular addition to milk tea. They add a refreshing flavor and are a healthier alternative to the chewy toppings. Some popular fruits used in milk tea include strawberries, mangoes, and kiwis.
In conclusion, milk tea is a delicious drink that is made from a combination of tea, milk, and other ingredients. The key ingredients used in milk tea vary from shop to shop, but some are common across all shops. These include tea, milk, pearls, sinkers, and fresh fruits.
Trends and Innovations
The milk tea industry has been growing rapidly in recent years, with new trends and innovations emerging regularly. One of the newest trends is the use of panda milk in milk tea, which is gaining popularity due to its unique taste and health benefits. Panda milk tea is made by blending panda milk with black tea, creating a sweet and creamy beverage that is both delicious and nutritious.
Delivery services have also become increasingly popular in the milk tea industry, allowing customers to order their favorite drinks from the comfort of their own homes. Many milk tea shops now offer delivery services through popular apps, making it easier than ever to enjoy a refreshing drink without leaving the house.
Milk tea franchises have also seen tremendous success in recent years, with many new franchises popping up around the world. These franchises offer a wide variety of flavors and styles, making it easy for customers to find a drink that they love. Take-out options have also become increasingly popular, allowing customers to grab a drink on the go.
Despite all the new trends and innovations, OG milk tea remains a customer favorite. This classic drink is made with black tea, milk, and sugar, creating a rich and creamy beverage that is both satisfying and delicious. Yi Fang Taiwan Fruit Tea is also a popular choice, offering a unique twist on traditional milk tea by adding fresh fruit and fruit juices to the mix.
Overall, the milk tea industry is constantly evolving, with new trends and innovations emerging regularly. Whether you prefer a classic OG milk tea or a trendy new flavor, there is no shortage of delicious options to choose from.
Health Considerations
Milk tea is a popular beverage that is enjoyed by many people around the world. While it can be a tasty treat, it is important to consider the health implications of consuming milk tea regularly.
One of the primary concerns with milk tea is the high sugar content. Most milk tea shops add a significant amount of sugar to their drinks, which can lead to weight gain and other health problems. It is important to be mindful of the amount of sugar in your milk tea and to opt for healthier sweeteners such as honey or stevia when possible.
Another consideration when it comes to milk tea is the use of tapioca pearls and pudding as toppings. While these can add a fun texture to the drink, they are high in calories and can contribute to weight gain. It is important to enjoy these toppings in moderation and to opt for healthier alternatives such as fruit jelly or grass jelly when possible.
Despite these concerns, there are some potential health benefits to consuming milk tea. For example, milk is a good source of protein, calcium, and potassium, which are all important for bone health and body composition. Additionally, tea contains antioxidants that can help protect against certain diseases.
Overall, while milk tea can be a delicious treat, it is important to be mindful of the potential health implications of consuming it regularly. By opting for healthier sweeteners and toppings and enjoying milk tea in moderation, you can still enjoy this popular beverage while maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I find milk tea shops near me?
Milk tea shops can be found in almost every corner of the Philippines. Some popular milk tea shops include Gong Cha, Coco, and Serenitea. To find a milk tea shop near you, a simple Google search or using food delivery apps like GrabFood and Foodpanda can help you locate the nearest milk tea shop.
What are the menus of popular milk tea shops?
Popular milk tea shops have a wide range of menu options, including classic milk tea, fruit tea, cheese tea, and specialty drinks. Some shops also offer add-ons like pearls, pudding, and jelly. Gong Cha, for example, has a variety of flavors like Matcha, Brown Sugar, and Wintermelon. Serenitea has unique flavors like Hokkaido Milk Tea and Okinawa Milk Tea. Coco, on the other hand, is known for their cheese tea.
What are the best milk tea brands?
The best milk tea brands are subjective and vary depending on personal taste and preference. Gong Cha, Coco, and Serenitea are some of the most popular brands in the Philippines. However, other milk tea brands like Dakasi, Happy Lemon, and Macao Imperial Tea also have a loyal following.
What is the most popular milk tea in the Philippines?
The most popular milk tea in the Philippines is a matter of debate, but some of the most ordered flavors include classic milk tea, wintermelon, and brown sugar milk tea.
What are the best locations for milk tea shops?
Milk tea shops can be found in almost every corner of the Philippines, but some of the best locations for milk tea shops are in malls, commercial areas, and near schools and universities.
How do I write a business plan for a milk tea shop?
Writing a business plan for a milk tea shop involves identifying the target market, creating a menu, determining the location, and calculating the startup costs. It is also important to research the competition and develop a marketing strategy. Seeking advice from a business consultant or mentor can also be helpful.
Follow #TeamOutofTown on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and Pinterest for more travel and food updates.
Also read:
