Why we love it: Located inside Great Northern Mall, Bubble House is a sweet escape. Its menu features bubble teas, rolled ice cream, milkshakes, acai bowls, egg waffles and more, making it a great place to stop while shopping. The bright atmosphere creates a perfect place to relax and recharge. With convenient online ordering available for takeout or delivery, it’s even easier to get your boba fix. Try this: Sip on the fan-favorite Brown Sugar Milk Tea ($6.50), and pair it with a fresh New York Crepe ($8.99), stuffed with Nutella, strawberries and banana for a satisfying on-the-go treat. 4954 Great Northern Blvd., North Olmsted, 240-849-9820, order.online/store/bubble-house
Why we love it: Boba & Pearl is a haven for bubble tea enthusiasts. From the playful purple and pink decor to the photo wall, perfect for selfies, this Cuyahoga Falls hot spot blends flavor and fun. The selection includes classic milk teas, fruit-infused teas and innovative options like bubble snow and bubble waffles. Adorable boba-themed plushies are scattered throughout the shop to commemorate your visit. Try this: The Bubble Snow ($4.99) is a fan favorite — a creamy, icy dessert topped with fresh fruit and boba. Pair it with the Oreo Madness Bubble Waffle ($6.99) for the ultimate treat. 1922 Portage Trail, Cuyahoga Falls, 234-571-1287, doordash.com/boba-&-pearl-cuyahoga-falls
Why we love it: Candy Cloud brings a whimsical twist to your everyday drink experience with colorful boba teas, iced and hot coffees, lemonades and shakes — all canned fresh to order. The Willoughby gem is a family-friendly spot; the vibrant, modern space offers a safe, welcoming environment for all ages and all flavor palates. Plus, with monthly themed drinks ($6.29) like the Baklava Shaken Espresso, Iced Vanilla Protein Latte, and Mint Cookies n’ Cream Shake, there’s always something new to try for the adventurous folks. Guests can customize any drink to add boba, sweeteners, energy boosters and more. Try this: The Purple Potion ($5.98) features iced ube and milk, with nondairy options available. Add-ins like brown sugar boba, whipped toppings and syrup drizzles can all be included based on personal preference. It’s a playful, colorful treat that’s as fun to drink as it is to look at. 36299 Euclid Ave., Willoughby, 440-510-8177, candycloudcompany.com
Why we love it: Nestled in the University Circle neighborhood, this cozy, classic spot offers a diverse array of Chinese cuisines, including a broad selection of boba drinks and teas. It also features traditional Chinese sweet dessert soups, such as the creamy Red Bean Sago ($5.99), with fruit, bulbs of crystal boba and more. Its proximity to Case Western Reserve University and University Hospitals makes it a convenient and reliable dining option for students and professionals on the go. While primarily a takeout spot, the restaurant provides a few indoor seating options for those who prefer to dine in. Try this: The fresh strawberry smoothie ($4.99) is a perfectly balanced sweet treat. The fruity beverage is filled with strawberry jellies, sago pearls and crystal boba, and topped with cheese cream foam for an
indulgent and savory finishing touch.1322 Euclid Ave., Cleveland, 216-791-7998, chopstick.restaurant888.com
Why we love it: This Rocky River hub, which opened its doors in October 2023, blends the nostalgia of emo culture with the art of crafting high-quality bubble tea. Founded by Zhiyu Shen, the shop is a haven for music lovers, adorned with band memorabilia from icons like Green Day and Good Charlotte. “When I was a kid, all the boba shops looked the same, kind of cutesy. I liked the idea of something different,” says Shen. The space elevates its musical ambiance with a small stage for live music performances. Whether you come for the boba, the music or the sense of community, Emo Friend hits all the right notes. Try this: Sip on a creamy honeydew matcha ($5) for something soothing, or go for the floral rose Earl Grey tea ($5) for something unique.19634 Center Ridge Road, Rocky River, 415-518-4854, facebook.com/emo-friend-boba-tea
Why we love it: This Japanese noodle shop on the west side of Mentor has it all. The interior features distinct Japanese decor to give an Asian market feel. Lo-fi Japanese music softly plays in the background of the dining room, which displays memorabilia and hanging lamps, and guests can order beautiful bowls of ramen, bubble tea, sake and even sweet desserts. “We have anime playing on four TVs and anime figures all throughout the restaurant. We also have Japanese lanterns up front that are lit,” says owner Michael Norris. Try this: Tapioca boba is cooked in small batches daily in this kitchen, elevating the taste of every bubble tea offered. This makes drinks like the Vampire Love Coconut Strawberry specialty tea ($7.25) popular for more than one reason, with freshness and rich flavor in every sip. The coconut tea includes strawberry puree at the bottom to look like blood, but the bold contrast of pale white tea against vibrant red strawberry is nothing to be afraid of. 9853 Johnnycake Ridge Road, Unit 15, Mentor, 440-853-1332, ichiraku-ramen.com
Why we love it: With locations in AsiaTown and Coventry Village, this beloved spot offers an incredible selection of desserts. Their famous Asian buns — stuffed with fillings like pork, egg and red bean — are a must-try for those seeking either a sweet or a savory twist. But no visit is complete without one of their iconic bubble teas, with more than 40 flavor options ranging from fruity classics to indulgent blends. Try this: Grab a classic red bean bun ($1.95) for a taste of tradition, then pair it with a sweet black glutinous rice milk tea ($6.50) for a rich blend of earthy, nutty black rice flavors and a hint of natural sweetness. 3710 Payne Ave., Cleveland, 216-881-7600; 1767 Coventry Road, Cleveland Heights, 216-465-1022, facebook.com/@kokobakery
Why we love it: LuCha is a breath of fresh air in the heart of Aurora. A nod to the two cuddly Shiba Inu dogs in its logo, the restaurant offers a warm and inviting eatery space with couch seating that serves handcrafted teas and a glass case full of fresh-baked treats. An extensive drink menu pairs well with bites like strawberry cake rolls and garlic cheese bread. Try this: Order the jasmine green tea with cheese foam ($4.25) to try a rich, creamy twist on a classic flavor. 332 Aurora Commons Circle, Aurora, 330-348-0169, luchacafe.com
Why we love it: Cha Li Tea Shop in Shaker Heights, Stow and soon-to-be third location in Mentor is a haven for bubble tea enthusiasts, offering a diverse menu of handcrafted beverages made with fresh fruits and chewy boba. The bakery case is always filled with crepe cakes and elegant mousse, and the message board allows guests to leave a colorful note on the wall. Try this: Indulge in a cool lychee tea slush ($6.45) that is bright and refreshing with a blend of floral sweetness and tropical fruitiness. The lychee flavor is delicate and aromatic. Go a step further and add some popping boba or herbal jelly for a fun addition. Various Locations, chali-teashop.com
Why we love it: Store owner Corinne Nguyen opened this location over two years ago to bring better boba to Parma. “It’s just something I’ve always loved,” says Nguyen. The menu features an assortment of both hot and cold beverages, as well as freshly baked treats like bubble waffles that can be filled with mochi, chocolate chips and more. “You can really taste the tea in our drinks,” she says. “It’s a lot stronger.” Try this: The Tiger Milk Tea ($6.50) offers a creative spin on the classic brown sugar boba flavor. Stripes of brown sugar syrup line the cup like tiger stripes, giving a hint of sweetness. Customers can choose to add classic tapioca boba or other fun options like jellies and flavored popping pearls. 7868 Broadview Road, Parma, 216-236-6043, milkntea.net
Why we love it: With speedy service and reasonable prices, Phusion Cafe is perfect for anyone craving authentic Taiwanese flavors on the fly. While the menu offers everything from popcorn chicken to beef noodle soup, it also has milk teas for a quick pick-me-up. Try this: The matcha milk tea ($4) has a smooth, earthy flavor. Customize it with classic tapioca pearls or fruity popping boba for an extra burst. 11611 Euclid Ave., Cleveland, 216-978-0088, phusioncafecleveland.com
Why we love it: Tucked on the corner of West 25th Street, owner and former Case Western Reserve University student Chun Keung Wong was inspired to create his brand after traveling abroad in Japan. The Mooncat mascot pays homage to a small fishing town Wong visited during his studies, as well as his daughter. “I quit my job to start looking for locations, and during that time, my first daughter, Luna, was born,” says Wong. Besides boba, the cafe serves snacks and light meals like veggie spring rolls, fried dumplings, musubi and more. Try this: With featured specials every few months, menu offerings are always unique. Mito’s Moonjuice ($7) features taro milk tea with strawberry syrup and crystal boba. 3460 W. 25th St., Cleveland, 216-331-6615, mooncatbobacafe.com
Why we love it: The New York-based Asian dessert chain brings a tropical twist to Cleveland's sweets scene with mango-inspired treats, but it offers more than its namesake flavor. You’ll also find classic desserts like coconut juice with red bean and green tea ice cream. With its cozy ambiance, large space and visually stunning desserts, Mango Mango offers a photo-worthy experience that sets it apart from standard dessert spots. Try this: Find a burst of diverse flavor in the coconut smoothie with red bean and mango ($6.95), which includes sago pearls, mango pieces and grapefruit. 3133 Payne Ave., Cleveland, mangomangodessert.com
Why we love it: Ming’s Bubble Tea in Hudson is a hidden gem founded by Ming Xie, a U.S. Army Reserve veteran. Alongside his wife, Xie brings authentic bubble tea experiences to Northeast Ohio. Their commitment to quality is evident in every cup, using premium loose tea leaves from Taiwan, brewed in-house for genuine flavor. The cozy storefront features a charming wishing wall, where patrons can leave notes, adding a personal touch to the inviting atmosphere. Try this: Savor the bestselling mango and passionfruit tea ($4.75), which perfectly balances sweetness and tartness. For a creamy treat, the Oreo milk tea ($5.50) blends classic milk tea with crushed Oreo pieces. 46 Park Lane, Hudson, 234-284-8457, mingsbubbletea.com
Why we love it: The Willoughby shop hits a sweet spot, offering a delightful fusion of Vietnamese cuisine and desserts, making it a go-to for every craving. Their menu features authentic Vietnamese dishes like pho and banh mi, complemented by a selection of handcrafted macarons and bubble teas. Try this: Thai tea ($4.95) is a classic sweet and creamy beverage made with black tea, condensed milk and aromatic spices. 34912 Ridge Road, Willoughby, 440-525-5999, sugarbowlohio.com
Why we love it: Serving up the bold, aromatic flavors of Bangkok street food in the heart of Lakewood, the menu features Thai staples like pad thai and kra praow. Their bubble teas are a sweet complement, offering creamy, fruity and classic flavors to cool down the heat from their savory dishes. With multiple reader-voted Best Thai Food awards, it’s a local staple. Try this: See why it's all the hype with their signature chicken pad Thai ($12.95), and pair it with a creamy honeydew bubble tea ($6) for a complete meal. 13415 Madison Ave., Lakewood, 216-226-4890, thaithailakewood.com
Why we love it: Located inside Beachwood Mall, this family-owned spot serves up classic milk teas, fruity infusions and creamy smoothies that are fully customizable. With a wide selection of toppings — from traditional tapioca pearls to popping boba in flavors like lychee and blueberry — every sip is a choose-your-own-adventure. Conveniently located near the food court, it’s a sweet shopping pick-me-up. Try this: The Taro Milk Tea ($6.75) is popular for its rich, creamy flavor and iconic purple hue. Add classic tapioca pearls or a playful pop with lychee boba to take it to the next level. 26300 Cedar Road, Beachwood, 844-438-9667, woopbubbletea.com
Why we love it: This mom-and-pop stop in Solon is devoted to the best, bringing a delightful array of bubble teas, crispy Asian-style crepes and stuffed waffles to the community. Its menu boasts a kaleidoscope of flavors, from unicorn milk tea to vibrant rainbow sodas, ensuring there’s something to satisfy every palate and craving. Try this: Indulge in the popular butterfly pea caramel milk tea ($6.75) for a unique, colorful twist on a classic favorite. 33544 Aurora Road, Solon, 440-318-1788, facebook.com/youI-tea-bar
Why we love it: Nestled in the heart of AsiaTown, YYTime is a boba lover’s dream with nearly 60 fruit and milk tea options to explore. From classic staples like brown sugar milk tea to creative favorites like honeydew matcha slush and lychee refreshers, the choices are endless. Customization is key here — you can adjust sugar, ice and toppings to create a drink that’s perfectly yours. Housed within a vibrant food hall, the open kitchen adds energy to the space, making it feel like a front-row seat to flavor. Try this: The purple yam brown sugar milk tea with crystal pearls ($7.25) is a tasteful and adventurous option for those wanting to experiment with new flavor combinations. 3004 Payne Ave., 216-291-7533, Cleveland, yytimecle.com
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