August 11, 2020, by Agnes

Nottingham in Bubble Tea

I have a confession… I’m addicted to bubble tea. Whereas some people might stop for a cup of coffee in the morning, I go straight for the boba shop. It’s a problem… but a really yummy one. 

If you don’t know what bubble tea is, you’re missing out. It’s a tea-based drink invented in Taiwan which is usually topped with chewy tapioca bubbles, fruity popping bubbles or soft jelly cubes. There are so many combinations and flavours to try – I can never get tired of it.

Thankfully, Nottingham is filled with amazing bubble tea shops – both independent and chains – so there are plenty to try before picking your favourite. Due to my slight obsession, I can honestly say that I’ve tried every place in Nottingham during my first year here (oops?) which means I can give you the scoop on all of them. 

• Marucha

The only boba place on campus – inside the SU building – Marucha is perfect for a quick fix between lectures. It’s always yummy and fresh and it was one of the first boba places to switch to thick paper straws! It can be a bit on the pricey side, but it’s a business local to Nottingham with only one other location – in Hockley!

• Hing Kee

Family-run, independent bubble tea shop right in the heart of Beeston? Yes, please! The boba is delicious, affordable and any flavour can be made vegan. James, the owner, is working hard to make his shop as environmentally friendly as possible with special recycling bins for straws and cups as well as selling reusable boba straws and cups! 

• Spring Tea

If you’re based on Jubilee campus, you’re not missing out – Spring Tea is only a ten-minute walk away! The staff is really friendly, the drinks always yummy and it’s a great spot for a break from work!

• Pop In

Very instagrammable, aesthetically pleasing boba shop that also serves… greek food. If you’re craving a boba but also a quick snack, or even a whole meal – you’ll find Pop In in a side street opposite the Nottingham Central Library!

• Chatime

Also on Angel Row, you’ll find Chatime – a chain boba shop present in a lot of cities around the UK. It’s right by Old Market Square, it’s affordable and it’s delicious. If you’re looking for a familiar flavour and a good quality tea, Chatime doesn’t disappoint.

• T4.

T4 is also a chain you can find around the UK – but it really doesn’t feel like it! They have a massive menu, their drinks are very customisable and the staff are super friendly. It’s also right off Old Market Square, on King Street. 

• HiGuys

Right opposite T4, we have HiGuys. This is a Nottingham-exclusive bubble tea shop with a really unique menu. Here you can get boba with fresh fruits, sweet boba with savoury cream crowns and alcoholic cocktail boba with beer or wine. Highly recommended for taking your taste buds on a journey – a really delicious one!

• Umai

You can find this little restaurant at the back of Oriental Mart right next to the Royal Centre tram stop. The boba is delicious, but it’s even more delicious as a part of one of their amazing lunch deals. If you’re in town and looking for a quick bite, Oriental Street Food is where it’s at.

• Lily’s Umami

Last but DEFINITELY not least… Lily’s Umami. This is a local Nottingham business, right in the heart of Hockley, which serves fresh bubble tea as well as tasty food! They’re working on adding bento boxes to the menu and I’m beyond excited.

As you can see, we’re spoiled for choice in Notts! Which one will be your favourite?

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