The 10 Best Bubble Tea Spots in San Diego

Recent research indicates that San Diego has over 70 places to enjoy boba tea. While many options exist, not all boba tea spots offer the same quality.

In this article, we will explore the top 10 boba tea spots in the city. We’re not limiting ourselves to traditional bubble tea shops; we’ll also spotlight cafes that serve exceptional boba tea.

1. The Korean Rose

Nestled in the bustling neighborhood of Convoy in San Diego, The Korean Rose is a notable establishment, offering a unique blend of traditional and modern Korean-themed boba beverages. Renowned for its extensive menu, the cafe prioritizes its boba teas, with the signature “Korean Rose” and “Map of the Soul” standing out as popular choices. The teas, ranging from the creamy milk variants to the fruity refreshers, are complemented with soft, fresh boba pearls that have been consistently praised for their texture and taste.

For those who admire K-pop culture, The Korean Rose provides a delightful experience with its K-pop series drinks. Notable mentions include the “Candy Bong”, a Twice-themed drink, and the distinctive flavors such as the “Rose Milk Tea” and the “POG” – a vibrant mix of passionfruit, orange, and guava. Although some drinks have set sweetness levels, many allow for customization, catering to varying tastes.

The ambiance of the cafe exudes subtle Korean aesthetics. While the indoor seating is limited, it’s offset by the availability of ample outdoor seating. Located conveniently near the Zion Market and Taegukgi Korean BBQ, The Korean Rose benefits from easy parking and the added advantage of offering discounts to patrons of the neighboring BBQ establishment.

The attentive staff is always eager to provide recommendations and ensures prompt service. Combining authentic teas, an inviting atmosphere, and its nod to contemporary Korean culture, The Korean Rose has positioned itself as a distinguished spot in San Diego’s boba tea scene.

Pros

• Good drinks/boba
• Friendly staff
• Lots of parking

Cons

• Drinks may be overly sweet for some tastes
• Small interior seating

Location: 7655 Clairemont Mesa Blvd, Ste 502, San Diego, CA 92111

2. It’s Boba Time

Tucked away on Convoy Street sits the boba cafe It’s Boba Time. Having opened its doors in 2015, this unassuming spot has become a regular haunt for many locals looking to satisfy their boba craving.

Inside, the decor is youthful and energetic. Pops of color adorn the walls, and funky chairs surround wooden tables. It’s an upbeat environment to chat with friends or get some work done. However, most customers come for one thing – the drinks.

It’s Boba Time prides itself on an extensive menu filled with milk teas, fruit teas, slushes, and smoothies. Signature options include the Tiger Sugar Black Tea Latte, featuring a rich assam black tea layered on top of fresh whole milk and sweetened with brown sugar stripes. The Fruit Tea offers lighter choices like green tea blended with purees made from real fruit. Customers can customize their drinks with add-ons like boba, lychee jelly, or popping boba. The focus is on using quality ingredients to create well-balanced drinks.

It’s Boba Time has carved out a niche in Convoy Street. Between the youthful interior, stellar drink menu, and cheerful service, it’s a spot where regulars and newcomers alike can kick back and enjoy a refreshing beverage. For many in the neighborhood, it satisfies their cravings and provides a welcoming place to take a boba break.

Pros

• Large variety of drinks/flavors
• Boba is free with drinks

Cons

• Long wait times
• Parking can be difficult

Location: 4344 Convoy St, Ste A, San Diego, CA 92111

3. Yog-art

Yog-art, located in the Grantville area of San Diego, has been offering a variety of frozen treats and specialty drinks since its establishment in 2018. This café is known for its extensive menu, with a particular focus on boba teas.

Visitors to Yog-art are presented with a range of options, including a diverse selection of boba teas. These teas have balanced flavors and are not overly sweet. Some popular choices include brown sugar boba milk tea, rose lychee fruit tea, and innovative creations like the strawberry outburst milkshake, made with fresh strawberries for added freshness, unlike your typical sugar shakes. The boba pearls in these drinks have just the perfect texture.

Besides boba teas, the café also serves frozen yogurt, shakes, and smoothies. The frozen yogurt section allows customers to customize their selections with various toppings. For those looking for different flavors, the chamoy drinks are a must try.

Yog-art accommodates different dietary needs by providing alternatives like soy, almond & coconut milk. The service is efficient, a notable aspect especially during peak times.

Located in a convenient spot in Grantville, Yog-art offers an array of sweet treats, including its well-regarded boba teas. The café is a suitable choice for those in the area looking for a variety of dessert options.

Pros

• High-quality ingredients.
• Wide selection of drinks and flavors.
• Excellent customer service.
• Ability to customize orders.
• Fresh and delicious boba.
• Cleanliness of the premises.
• Reasonable prices.
• Ample parking availability.
• Speedy service.
• Innovative and unique drink options.

Cons

• Couldn’t find any.

Location: 10450 Friars Rd, San Diego, CA 92120

4. DINGTEA

Located in the Fashion Valley mall in San Diego, DINGTEA is a haven for boba enthusiasts. The ambiance is both inviting and contemporary, characterized by an airy interior adorned with hanging plants and notable décor, making it a pleasant setting to relax after a day of shopping. While DINGTEA boasts an extensive and diverse menu, it’s their range of boba teas that truly captures attention.

A highlight of the offering is the Creme Brûlée Monster Boba, a delectable concoction that blends the rich flavors of traditional crème brûlée with the unique texture of boba. Those seeking a fruitier flavor might be drawn to the DINGTEA Fruit Tea, which can be tailored to individual sweetness preferences. Beyond these, there’s a generous selection of other teas and desserts to choose from.

The spacious setting within the cafe offers ample seating, making it conducive for a casual meet-up with friends or simply to find solace with a book in hand. The efficient service ensures that visitors receive their orders in a timely manner, and the staff displays commendable patience, especially when helping customers navigate the extensive menu.

DINGTEA in Fashion Valley is a refreshing stop for quality boba teas and more, set against a backdrop of relaxed elegance.

Pros

• Delicious drinks/boba
• Good customer service
• Nice ambiance/decor

Cons

• Long wait times

Location: 7007 Friars Rd, Ste 734, San Diego, CA 92108

5. Camellia Rd Tea Bar

Nestled in the bustling neighborhood of Clairemont Mesa in San Diego, the Camellia Rd Tea Bar offers a unique tea experience that sets it apart from typical boba shops. Established in 2017, the tea bar has made its mark by prioritizing quality and transparency. Their specialization is crafting Milk Teas and Tea Frescas using genuine loose-leaf teas paired with organic cane sugar.

A standout feature of Camellia Rd is its extensive menu that encompasses a variety of distinctive tea flavors. From the aromatic hojicha and the delicate jasmine to the rare pu-erh and flavorful chrysanthemum, there is a blend to satiate every palate. For those familiar with more conventional options, black tea, Thai tea, matcha, and oolong tea are also available.

Beyond the teas themselves, Camellia Rd is known for its meticulously prepared boba. The boba offers a slightly chewy consistency, providing a delightful contrast to the beverages. The establishment also ensures that there’s something for everyone, with a monthly rotating selection of tea frescas and specialty drinks. Those sensitive to caffeine can find solace in their non-caffeinated options.

Inside, the ambiance of the tea bar is conducive for both relaxation and productivity. Ample tables make it a popular spot for studying, and there’s also room for casual conversations. For visitors who might be looking to try something new, the friendly staff is known to offer recommendations and samples. Additionally, Camellia Rd also sells their premium loose-leaf teas for patrons to enjoy at home. Whether one is seeking a serene spot to work or simply indulge in a cup of quality tea, Camellia Rd Tea Bar proves to be a noteworthy destination in San Diego.

Pros

• Strong tea flavor/high-quality tea
• Chewy, sweet boba
• Friendly staff
• Good for studying/hanging out
• Lots of seating

Cons

• Can get very busy/crowded
• Drinks may be overly sweet for some tastes

Location: 8199 Clairemont Mesa Blvd, Ste H, San Diego, CA 92111

6. Boba Bar and Desserts

Boba Bar and Desserts, situated in the bustling neighborhood of Convoy in San Diego, is a choice destination for boba and dessert aficionados. The establishment offers a diverse range of boba teas, with a selection that includes Jasmine Milk Green Tea, Earl Gray Milk Tea, Oolong Milk Tea, and other enticing flavors. For those looking to explore beyond traditional boba flavors, the Ube Brown Sugar and Taro Oreo variations come highly recommended.

The cafe’s ambiance is cozy, making it a preferred spot for casual gatherings. Small tables adorn the space, coupled with an artful decor that lends a unique charm to the environment. In addition to boba teas, Boba Bar and Desserts is notable for its dessert offerings, especially its puffles – a delightful treat with a crispy exterior and a soft center. These puffles come in various flavors, with the Purple Oreo Puffle standing out as a favorite among many.

Guests can also enjoy a selection of smoothies, with the Pistachio and Lychee Dragonfruit being among the top choices. Service is typically swift, with orders taken at the counter and served once ready. For those visiting by car, parking is available in the vicinity, although it might be bustling during peak hours. Overall, Boba Bar and Desserts provides a pleasant blend of delicious beverages and desserts in a welcoming setting.

Pros

• Good selection of drinks and desserts
• Friendly, fast service
• Delicious puffles/waffles

Cons

• Parking can be difficult
• Drinks can be too sweet
• Boba quality inconsistent

Location: 4619 Convoy St, San Diego, CA 92111

7. Kung Fu Tea

Situated in the vibrant Convoy neighborhood of San Diego, Kung Fu Tea distinguishes itself as a premier destination for authentic boba teas. Since its inception in New York City in 2010, this establishment has expanded its reach, signifying its commitment to offering superior tea experiences.

The cafe is renowned for its expansive menu of made-to-order teas, encompassing both milk and fruit-based beverages. A highlight, undeniably, is their boba tea. The boba pearls are consistently described as having an impeccable texture—neither too hard nor too soft—and they carry a delightful hint of brown sugar. Beyond the classic boba, guests can enhance their beverages with many toppings, ranging from beans and jellies to pudding.

For those sensitive to sweetness, Kung Fu Tea considers individual preferences, allowing patrons to adjust sugar levels to their liking. Several mentions have been made of the Winter Melon Milk Green Tea, a crowd favorite, and the versatility of the cafe is evident in its other offerings, such as the non-dairy Thai milk tea and the unique sesame oolong milk tea.

The interior ambiance strikes a balance between modernity and comfort. While the seating is designed to cater to both solo visitors and groups, it’s worth noting that the atmosphere can be lively at times, given the establishment’s popularity. The attentive staff at Kung Fu Tea ensures that the drinks are not only of high caliber but also consistently crafted, making each visit a reliably pleasant experience. Whether you’re a seasoned boba enthusiast or a curious newcomer, Kung Fu Tea in Convoy offers a taste of quality and tradition.

Pros

• Great boba texture
• Large drink selection
• Ability to customize the sweetness
• Friendly staff

Cons

• Parking can be difficult
• Drinks are sometimes made incorrectly
• Long wait times

Location: 4869 Convoy St, San Diego, CA 92111

8. Sharetea

Established in 1992, Sharetea began its journey in Taipei, Taiwan, with the simple offerings of to-go black tea and pearl milk tea. Over time, the establishment has grown tremendously, now boasting over 450 branches across 18 countries, with 55 of these branches scattered across North America. Nestled in the Linda Vista area of San Diego, Sharetea’s hallmark is its authentic Bubble Tea, crafted with high-quality ingredients sourced directly from Taiwan. Each ingredient undergoes rigorous testing to maintain freshness and consistency in every serving.

At the heart of Sharetea’s menu is its extensive variety of bubble tea flavors, featuring over 50 choices along with a plethora of toppings to customize each drink. Among the favorites are the mango green milk tea, wintermelon crema, and the taro milk tea, with patrons often adjusting sweetness levels to their preference. Sharetea’s commitment to variety is further emphasized through its seasonal drinks, offering visitors a new “Bubblicious” experience during each visit.

Upon stepping into Sharetea, visitors are greeted by a cozy and vibrant interior that exudes a sense of warmth and invitation. The attentive and well-informed staff play a significant role in shaping the cafe’s atmosphere, ensuring each customer’s queries are addressed, and drink preferences are met. With a blend of traditional Taiwanese tea culture and modern drink innovations, Sharetea is a delightful destination for both bubble tea enthusiasts and newcomers in San Diego.

Pros

• Friendly, helpful staff
• Good boba/pearls
• Lots of tea options on the menu
• Good taro milk tea

Cons

• Parking can be difficult
• Inconsistent sweetness levels
• Drinks can taste watered down

Location: 5265 Linda Vista Rd, Ste 201, San Diego, CA 92110

9. Happy Lemon

Situated in the vibrant part of San Diego on Convoy Street, Happy Lemon is a testament to the timeless appeal of quality bubble teas. Established in 2006, this cafe has paved its way in the global tea market with a legacy spanning various countries, including Mainland China, Australia, and the United Kingdom.

The heart of Happy Lemon’s menu revolves around their traditional bubble teas. For those with a penchant for distinctive flavors, their citrus-infused lemon teas offer a refreshing twist. One of their standout offerings is the salted cheese topping, which imparts a frothy texture, harmoniously blending sweet and salty notes. Beyond the teas, they have an assortment of bubble waffles, with options ranging from the classic to the innovative Oreo variant. The drinks’ sweetness level can be customized to cater to individual tastes, ensuring that each sip aligns with one’s preference.

Inside, the ambiance of Happy Lemon resonates with a calm and relaxed atmosphere, making it an ideal location to either grab a quick drink or linger for longer conversations. The staff is notably attentive, and often open to providing suggestions or samples of their various boba types. However, visitors should note that due to its popularity, there might be occasional wait times, especially during peak hours.

Overall, Happy Lemon offers a curated selection of bubble teas and treats, providing both longtime fans and newcomers with a taste of meticulously brewed beverages and a serene space in the bustling city.

Pros

• Good drink options and flavors
• Ability to customize sugar level and ice
• Bubble waffles are tasty

Cons

• Drinks can be too sweet even when ordering low sugar level
• Long wait times/slow service
• Parking is difficult

Location: 4633 Convoy St, Ste 107, San Diego, CA 92111

10. Tastea

Located in the North San Diego region, specifically Mira Mesa, Tastea offers a distinctive experience for boba tea enthusiasts. Prioritizing their bubble teas, Tastea presents a diverse menu that intrigues both regular patrons and newcomers. Their boba teas, noted for their fresh and chewy pearls, range from the universally appreciated classics like Jasmine Milk Tea to inventive concoctions such as Pinaberry Chamoy and Matcha Thai Tea. A distinguishing feature is the ability to customize drinks, with the inclusion of dairy alternatives like oat milk and almond milk at no extra cost.

Fruit teas, another forte of Tastea, boast flavors like Peach Me Sweetea and Lychee Peachee, which have garnered regular orders from many. The café also introduces a unique green honey boba, which, especially during festive seasons, can shift to vibrant red and green colors.

While the beverages are the stars, Tastea hasn’t neglected those looking for a cozy space. The café offers limited seating, making it an occasional hub for those wanting to unwind or get some work done, though it’s worth noting that the ambiance can become lively. Consistent quality and ease of customization are the cornerstones of Tastea’s offerings. For those nearby, this cafe is a thoughtful choice for a refreshing drink or a casual meet-up.

Pros

• Good tea and drink options
• Friendly and fast service
• Convenient location and parking
• Rewards program through app

Cons

• Inconsistent drink quality
• Small portions/not enough toppings
• Long wait times
• Bad/rude customer service at times

Location: 10756 Westview Pkwy, San Diego, CA 92126