Boba Bee is the perfect place to relax with a little bubbly. Tea, that is. With over 40 flavors of the stuff ,it's a wonder why anyone would opt for coffee here, but Boba has a full espresso bar just in case. Located across the street from Mather High School, this bubble tea shop gets a midday teenage rush. But you can avoid the madness during early morning and evening hours, or bring some hardcore headphones to drone out the high-pitched chatter.
The cafe's contemporary digs create a calm atmosphere and three velvety red couches make it the perfect spot to curl up with your laptop (there's free wi-fi). Orange lighting fixtures hang over a fruit-painted bar where you're likely to spend a good chunk of time teetering between tiers of choices. Boba baristas suggest mango for the bubble tea newbie, and honeydew is another popular choice. But the taro with tapioca balls is an overlooked little gem of a drink. The nutty flavor has just a hint of vanilla, making it a great choice for coffee lovers or an excellent alternative dessert. As one customer said, "it's like drinking ice cream," of which Boba Bee also carries 12 varieties.
Average cost: <$10
Centerstage Reviewer: Stacy Warden