On first appearance, you may wonder what in the world that strange drink with round blobs in a flat plastic covering is that you are holding in your hand. It’s distinctly foreign, and the uniqueness intrigues you as you spot many Austinites indulging themselves in this beverage. That, my friend, is a tapioca, bubble, or – more traditionally correct – “boba” tea. Originating from Taiwan, Austin is lucky to have many restaurants which sell this delicious drink from overseas. The blobs are actually tapioca, a starch made from the cassava root and various powders flavor the actual tea base. Boba tea can be also be made into an ice blend and combined with fruit or gelatin. There are many combinations and options to pick, and with convenient locations all around Austin, you don’t have an excuse not to try one. Each restaurant has their own specialty of tea, so if you have trouble selecting from the pool of choices, ask which drink is most popular.

Disclaimer: These drinks quickly become part of your daily diet

Tea Lounge

1700 W Parmer Ln #210, Austin, TX 78727

http://www.teapiocalounge.com/index.php/menu/drinks/greeentea

An Austin favorite. Popular for their cream bubble teas and large varieties. Cakes and flurry desserts are also sold on the menu. Like its name implies, a nice place to unwind and relax.

Momoko

705 W 24th St, Austin, TX 78705

If you are ever downtown, stop by this cute store. Not only do they sell more than 100 selections of bubble tea, they also sell other Japanese Sanrio items and delicious rice balls. Only con is products are a bit pricy and service is a bit slow.

Short & Sweet

10901 N Lamar Blvd, Austin, TX 78753

Not as big of a selection compared to others, but the flavor is still good. Nice atmosphere with good decor. Only issue is that they fill half of the cup with ice so you don’t get the most bang out of your buck.

Yogo Bowl

6301 W Parmer Ln, Austin, TX 78729

Extremely convenient location, since it’s just around the corner by McNeil. Not as well known for their bubble tea as for their frozen yogurt, but it is never crowded inside.