Milk tea first started becoming popular a few years back. Its sweet, syrupy take on the normally bitter drink quickly made it a favorite midday pick-me-up. Nowadays, you can find milk tea shops everywhere serving all kinds of varieties and flavors. Milk tea was born, raised, and perfected in Taiwan, and is definitely something you should look for when you’re in the country (READ: Ultimate Guide to Taiwan: Pre-Departure) Here’s a run down of some of our favorites!
Chun Shui Tang
Chun Shui Tang is the OG of milk tea, and what started the craze.
Must Try: Classic Pearl Milk Tea
Tea Patea
Tea Patea is a younger milk tea brand compared to the others. The story is that Tea Patea was founded by a former apprentice of Chun Shui Tang. This brand boasts of much more affordable prices
Must Try: Tieguanyin Tea Latte
85°C Bakery Cafe
85°C Bakery Cafe is often called the ‘Starbucks of Taiwan.’ And while the shop is known for serving coffee (especially their Sea Salt Coffee, which you should also try!), they have a pretty goo menu of milk tea drinks as well.
Must Try: Iced Rose Milk Tea
Presotea
The name comes from the fact that Presotea uses an expresso-type machine for their drinks. They claim that their method keeps the natural freshness and flavor of the tea leaves.
Must Try: Panda Milk Tea and Royal Earl Grey Milk Tea
Night Market Milk Tea
But nothing really compares to the milk tea from Taiwan’s night markets. The night markets are a cultural experience all on their own, making their food and drink unique. Bonus points: the milk tea here is really cheap, and easy to get to by train (READ: Your Ultimate Guide to Taiwan: Taipei by Train).
For more things to do in Taiwan, check out our other travel guides:
The Ultimate Food Guide to Hualien, Taiwan
5 Cafes in Taiwan Who Nailed Their Matcha Desserts
5 Best Places to See Maple Leaves in Taiwan
