Let’s Talk Boba Tea in the Chicagoland Area

I wanted to spotlight a friend for National Boba Day today because we have been going on some Boba adventures lately. As one of my adventure buddies, Linh Phu has gone above and beyond to exploring Boba Tea spots around Illinois. I wanted to share insight on her Boba story and any places she recommends. Stay tuned!

What’s your name and what’s your story?

My name is Linh and I’m born and raised in Wheaton, Illinois. I’m a first generation Chinese-Vietnamese-Asian-American after my parents came to the USA following the Vietnam War. I met Mel through my job at North Central College and I’m happy to be a part of this blog post!

What are your top three Boba Tea locations in Illinois?

Outside of Chicago, Illinois didn’t have many boba locations. Recently, there have been more stores to expand my options and introduce boba to other people. In no particular order: Kung Fu Tea, Vivi’s Bubble Tea, and Bearology. Honorable mention to Joy Yee’s, because it was my family’s go-to place since it was the closest to us. I would love to go to HelloJasmine, since many people have said it’s the best boba place in Illinois. Naturally, I have to go!

What makes you happy about drinking Boba Tea?

Boba is a great pick me up! If I need a caffeine fix, having a bad day, boba never fails to make my day better. It’s happiness in a cup. I personally think it’s also a great staple in the Asian culture.

If you had to name a Boba Tea, what would you call it? What would it have inside?

My first instinct would be a bakery item, since one of my favorite hobbies is baking. I’m basic when it comes to boba so I would definitely have the original boba in it. I’d love to have an ombré effect when the drink is made because I like to think those taste and look more fun. In terms of a name, I feel like there are puns that could be made with my first name Linh or my last name Phu. But to make one a boba tea drink? I don’t think I’d make a creative enough one. I believe in you, Linh!

What’s your secret to Boba Tea?

I stole this idea from an ice cream store owner because he mentioned that when he orders ice cream, he would always get vanilla ice cream. He believes that a place that has a good vanilla ice cream base is needed to create other flavors and share a great taste all around. I use this same process for ordering boba. Having a regular milk tea boba in a new place allows you to start with a foundation, and then you move on to flavors.

Fun facts about Boba Tea:

• Besides that it’s tea-lightful? Had to insert a pun in here for you, Mel!
• It’s definitely evolved since I first tried it. Now there’s different flavors and types of boba, different toppings you can put in your drinks, etc. Getting boba is an experience that should be savored and enjoyed!
• Boba originated from Taiwan but has made its mark on other Asian cultures.

Want to try making Boba yourself?

Grab three ingredients! Tapioca starch, muscovado sugar, and water. It’s quite simple but you can make it or break it with how you choose the consistency necessary. Boba requires a great “QQ” texture and taste to help the boba tea.

Here’s some Boba locations Linh explored in Illinois:

• Chains: Kung Fu Tea, Vivi Bubble Tea, Bearology USA
• Local spots: Joy Yee, Pisces Cafe, Vannie’s, 45 Degrees, Spades Tealife, Ma Tea House, HelloJasmine

I didn’t realize how many Boba Tea shops Illinois had. Linh wanted to help name a few chains and local shops to explore your Boba palette. I even created a video of her experience! ANNNND Happy National Boba Tea Day!!!