In the bustling streets of Imperial Valley, alongside traditional snack stops, two relatively new boba tea establishments are fueling the local craze for this beloved beverage.
Nestled in the Garcia Market shopping center on S. 4th Avenue in El Centro, “Happy Machapy” stands proudly next to Family Dollar. Meanwhile, in Calexico, a vibrant little service window adorned with Japanese lanterns marks the entrance to “Neko Boba House,” situated between the C-Mart gasoline mini-mart and a car wash on the corner of E. Cole Boulevard and Andrade Avenue.
These two spots are among the trio of boba tea joints that have emerged in Imperial Valley since October 2023. “Happy Machapy,” originally a home-based venture by owner Wiing Tse in Calexico since 2020, found its new home at 1109 S. 4th Street, Suite B, in El Centro last Halloween. Meanwhile, “Neko Boba House” debuted in Calexico in November 2023.
Completing the trio is “The Boba Shop,” located near the Imperial Valley Press on N. 8th Street in El Centro, which opened its doors in December 2023.
While “The Boba Shop” is the newest addition, “Happy Machapy” and “Neko Boba House” have already garnered positive feedback since settling into their current locales.
“We’ve been blessed with a great response to our boba,” remarked Wiing Tse, owner of “Happy Machapy,” originally from Mexicali. “We have regular customers,” she added.
Happy Machapy’s Unique Offerings
Despite initially starting as a micro-business in Calexico back in 2020 under a different name, Tse revealed that it took several years for her family business to transition to its current El Centro location. Challenges stemming from the COVID-19 pandemic, such as outfitting the El Centro space with a kitchen and restaurant design, delayed the move. Nevertheless, Tse emphasized the absence of negative reviews, highlighting customer loyalty and satisfaction.
“Our menu boasts not only fresh boba teas tailored to individual preferences but also an array of cuisines for lunch and dinner,” Tse explained. From diverse pasta dishes to flavorful soups, stir-fries, and potato-based creations, “Happy Machapy” aims to cater to various palates.
Popular boba tea flavors at “Happy Machapy” include Thai, taro, and Oreo, according to its staff.
Neko Boba House’s Charms
For Erika Cuevas, co-owner of “Neko Boba House” in Calexico, the decision to open a boba tea shop stemmed from a desire to fill a gap in the local market. Embracing an Asian-inspired theme with its colorful decor, “Neko Boba House” offers a distinct ambiance alongside its delectable treats.
“Our customers appreciate our concept, which combines an Asian aesthetic with a diverse range of flavors,” Cuevas shared. Signature boba creations like the “Dear Japan” and the Matcha “Neko” Palmer showcase the shop’s innovative spirit.
In addition to its eye-catching milk tea offerings, “Neko Boba House” also serves up homemade dishes like chilaquiles, carne asada al carbon, and various seafood options, complementing its beverage menu.
Both establishments pride themselves on providing quality products and fostering a welcoming atmosphere for patrons to enjoy. With the boba craze in full swing, these local gems are poised for continued success, catering to the diverse tastes of Imperial Valley residents.
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