Gathers Tea Bar, located in Little Italy and opened in 2019 by Peter Li, has become a standout destination for bubble tea enthusiasts seeking a more refined and less sweet experience. Partnering with Victor Lei, whose background includes experience at the esteemed Acadia, a two–Michelin star restaurant in Chicago, Li brings a unique fine-dining perspective to the world of boba tea.
Distinguishing itself from bubble tea franchises that often rely on powders and syrups, Gathers Tea Bar places emphasis on high-quality teas sourced from Rare Tea Cellar and direct partnerships with matcha and hojicha farmers in Kyoto. The commitment to quality ingredients and attention to detail is evident in their drinks, with a particular focus on letting the flavors of the tea shine.
Lei expresses their mission to “push the boundaries of boba,” with a dedication to crafting each drink meticulously. Gathers Tea Bar’s menu is diverse, featuring innovative concoctions such as the pumpkin cream chai made with real pumpkin puree and Hong Kong–style milk tea created from a proprietary blend of teas. Specials like Korean-inspired banana milk, initially introduced as a summer feature, have become permanent fixtures due to popular demand.
One of the standout features of Gathers Tea Bar’s boba is its exceptional springy QQ texture, setting it apart from other establishments. The menu continues to evolve, with new drinks regularly introduced to captivate customers and cater to diverse preferences. From fragrant and nostalgic choices like osmanthus oolong to soothing options like warm longan honey jasmine milk tea, the menu reflects a commitment to both quality and variety.
In addition to the exquisite drinks, Gathers Tea Bar offers a warm and welcoming ambiance, where personalized service and genuine interactions contribute to a memorable experience. Regular customers are greeted by name, and the knowledgeable staff readily provides recommendations and explanations of ingredients. The establishment has drawn patrons from various regions, with tea enthusiasts traveling from as far as Indiana or Iowa to savor the unique and refined offerings at Gathers Tea Bar.
