BRANDON, S.D. (KELO) – The bubbling excitement over bubble tea continues to spread as 9999 Boba brings its unique beverage offerings to Brandon.
Bubble tea, also known as boba, has captured the taste buds of enthusiasts with its tantalizing combination of fruit or milk tea bases, blended with chewy tapioca pearls, bursting popping boba, or jelly. Originally establishing its roots in Sioux Falls in 2022, 9999 Boba’s success has led to its expansion into Brandon.
Owner Johnny Pahthaem expressed joy at the warm reception from the local community. “They’re happy that we came to this community,” Pahthaem remarked. “A majority of them don’t even know what boba is, but then once they try it, they love it.”
Annika Johnson, a Sioux Falls resident who commutes to work in Brandon, shared her enthusiasm for discovering new boba spots in the area. “I like that there’s the aspect of the drink and something you can chew,” Johnson commented. “I really like textured things. So, I love that you can have like popping pearls, tapioca pearls, things like that and you get a yummy treat.”
Eager to explore the new Brandon location, Johnson was thrilled to learn about its proximity to her workplace. Pahthaem’s decision to expand into Brandon was driven by the strong presence of Brandon residents frequenting the Sioux Falls store.
“We had a lot of regulars from Brandon that actually go to the Sioux Falls locations, which kind of motivated me even more to open one up in Brandon,” he explained. “I know Brandon is a growing, small community also.”
Reflecting on the popularity of bubble tea, Pahthaem likened it to a modern-day dessert sensation akin to Starbucks. “I think a lot of it is the new generation type of drink, it’s like Starbucks,” he observed. “I think it’s more of the younger crowd, but now the older crowd is getting into it too. I mean, it’s like a dessert basically, that’s how I take it.”
Originating in Taiwan in the 1980s, bubble tea has evolved into a global phenomenon. Pahthaem, a California native, recognized the opportunity to introduce bubble tea to South Dakota after noticing its absence in the region.
Drawing inspiration from his Laotian heritage, Pahthaem named the establishment 9999 Boba, symbolizing the highest purity percentage of gold, 99.99%. The endeavor reflects his cultural roots and commitment to excellence.
While Sioux Falls already hosts two other dedicated bubble tea shops, Pahthaem remains focused on his current locations but expresses hope for future expansion. “It’s gonna be great. I’m pretty sure it’s gonna be a big industry,” he concluded, envisioning a bright future for bubble tea enthusiasts in the area.
