Boba Beginnings: The Sweet History Behind the Bubble Tea Craze
If you've ever sipped a bubble tea and wondered, "Who came up with this?" — you're not alone! At Aun-Tea, we love not just serving boba but also sharing the story behind it. Here’s a quick journey into how bubble tea began, and why the world can’t get enough of those chewy and juicy little balls at the bottom of the cup.
Where It All Started – Taiwan, 1980s
Bubble tea, or “boba,” originated in Taiwan in the early 1980s. It started as a simple milk tea, served cold and sweet — a refreshing twist on traditional Chinese tea. The real game-changer? The addition of tapioca pearls, which gave the drink a chewy texture and a fun, snack-like experience.
Legend says two tea shops, Chun Shui Tang and Hanlin Tea Room, were among the first to serve the drink. Each claims to have invented it — but what’s certain is that it didn’t take long before boba became a nationwide hit in Taiwan.
What Does "Boba" Mean?
“Boba” originally referred to the large-sized tapioca pearls added to the drink. Over time, it’s become a nickname for bubble tea itself, whether it contains pearls, fruit popping balls, or jellies. The word “bubble” can also refer to the frothy top created when the drink is shaken.
How It Went Global
Boba first spread through Taiwanese communities abroad — especially in places like the U.S., Canada, and Southeast Asia. As more people discovered this quirky, customisable drink, it started popping up in big cities around the world. Today, bubble tea is a global sensation — and shops like ours are bringing it to local communities right here in the UK.
Why Is Boba So Popular?
There’s no one reason — bubble tea’s appeal is multi-sensory:
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Flavour: From fruity to creamy, sweet to slightly bitter — there’s a flavour for everyone.
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Texture: Whether it’s chewy tapioca or popping boba, the texture makes it more than just a drink — it’s a treat.
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Customisation: Sweetness, ice level, toppings, tea base — it’s all up to you.
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Aesthetic: Let’s be honest — boba is super Instagrammable. Bright colours, layered drinks, and cute packaging make it a visual favourite.
At Aun-Tea, we’ve seen the joy on people’s faces when they try boba for the first time. It’s not just a drink — it’s a whole experience.
Boba at Aun-Tea
Whether you're a seasoned boba lover or a first-time sipper, we’re here to help you find your perfect match. From creamy classics to fruity refreshers with popping balls, we offer a variety of flavours — all made with care, fun, and just the right amount of chew.
Come visit us in Scunthorpe or explore our menu online — and discover why bubble tea has taken the world (and our hearts) by storm.