Chicha San Chen, the Taiwanese tea shop renowned for its signature boba milk tea and unique tea brewing process, has opened a new location on Bancroft Way in Berkeley.
Founded in 1998, the brand has grown into a global sensation, now with locations across three continents. This new Berkeley location marks its second in Northern California, following the Cupertino store.
The menu at Chicha San Chen is diverse, offering everything from boba milk tea to creamy fruit teas like their popular lemon tart tea.
What sets the shop apart is its customization options, allowing customers to choose from various creams, jellies, and flavors.
The tea is brewed fresh using their proprietary “teapresso” machine, LION, ensuring a unique, made-to-order experience for each cup.
Since opening its doors on February 15, the Berkeley location has quickly become a favorite among students and tea lovers. With bar-style seating and a relaxed atmosphere, the shop encourages patrons to stay, study, or socialize — a feature that differentiates it from the typical fast-paced boba shop.
The store also offers complimentary tea tasting sessions and the chance to experience traditional tea ceremonies, making it a haven for tea enthusiasts.
Despite slightly longer wait times due to its made-to-order brewing process, Chicha San Chen has already impressed its customers, with many appreciating the quality of the tea and the inviting environment.
The brand’s dedication to fresh, high-quality ingredients and a welcoming atmosphere has made it a standout in the local tea scene.
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