Panda Boba, the newest addition to Vinton’s vibrant downtown scene, has opened its doors, offering an exciting new destination for bubble tea lovers in the area. Located in the bustling Vineyard Station, along with popular spots like Pok-E-Joe’s, Roasters Next Door, and Aphrodite Salon and Spa, Panda Boba is quickly becoming a favorite hangout for tea enthusiasts seeking high-quality, made-to-order drinks in a welcoming, community-focused atmosphere.
Since its opening in September, Panda Boba has been delighting customers with its wide variety of fruit teas, milk teas, coffee drinks, and refreshing smoothies. Whether you’re in the mood for a fruity, tangy sip or a rich, creamy milk tea, Panda Boba has something to suit every palate. And for those who love to customize their beverages, the shop offers a range of delicious toppings including boba pearls, jelly squares, and more—allowing every customer to create the perfect drink just for them.
Panda Boba is the brainchild of Khanh Bui (36) and Giang Nguyen (41), a married couple who moved to Vinton from Highlands, North Carolina, after years of running a successful nail salon. Originally from Vietnam, the couple’s passion for boba tea was sparked by their love for the drink—and their desire to bring a high-quality bubble tea experience to the Vinton area.
“We wanted to create something special for the community, a place where people can enjoy delicious drinks and feel at home,” said Khanh Bui, who handles much of the daily operations at Panda Boba. “Vinton has a small-town charm, and we love how welcoming everyone has been. It really feels like home.”
While neither Bui nor Nguyen had experience making bubble tea before opening the shop, their dedication to perfecting the craft has paid off. They spent countless hours experimenting with different recipes and techniques to ensure each drink is just right. “We took some classes and practiced a lot,” Bui explained. “We started with basic recipes, but then we played around with them to create something unique—something we could call our own.”
Their hard work has resulted in a menu that features classic favorites alongside exciting new twists on traditional bubble tea, allowing customers to tailor their drinks to their exact preferences. Whether it’s adjusting the sweetness level or choosing from a variety of flavors, Panda Boba’s drinks are fully customizable, ensuring that each visit is a new and satisfying experience.
As Panda Boba continues to grow, Bui and Nguyen are excited to expand their menu, introduce seasonal drinks, and continue providing a cozy space for locals to unwind. Whether you’re a die-hard boba fan or a newcomer to the world of bubble tea, Panda Boba promises a warm welcome and delicious drinks that keep customers coming back for more.
Visit Panda Boba at Vineyard Station on South Pollard Street in downtown Vinton to experience the magic of freshly brewed teas, chewy tapioca pearls, and a variety of toppings. Join the community and make Panda Boba your new go-to spot for everything boba!
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