The “Square Pearl” store pulls off a surprise move—Kaohsiung unveils a giant drink cup nearly 180cm tall that’s perfect for photos

▲ WANT To Drink’s Kaohsiung branch unveils a 180cm giant hand-shaken drink. (Photo/IG)@yumihou_Provided. Please do not reproduce without permission to avoid copyright infringement.

Reported by Cao Yuehua / Interview and report

There’s no such thing as too wild—WANT To Drink”withbecame a craze with Taiwan’s first “square pearls” and ultra-trendy tote bags. Think they’ve reached their peak? Think again.The newly opened Kaohsiung branch on September 20 features a giant hand-shaken drink nearly 180cm tall. With its quality textures, color scheme, and window-display-inspired design,it’s become a new hotspot for influencers to snap photos, instantly transforming into the trendiest runway with camera flashes going off non-stop.

▲ Square pearls are the key to its viral success. (Photo/Provided by the store)

The reporter contacted WANT To Drink’s founder, Chen Zuoyuan, to uncover the secrets behind the brand. Chen said he wanted to do what chain beverage shops wouldn’t dare—infuse each branch with local characteristics so that customers can create unique memories in every city and county. He also emphasized that no matter how many branches there are, the brand will stay true to its original mission of making “heartwarming” drinks. For instance, whenever possible, he personally writes messages on the cups to surprise customers, creating an unforgettable experience like opening a surprise gift.

▲ Take a closer look, and you’ll see that each of the three branches has its own distinctive charm. (Photo/IG)@eatlife_rouProvided. Please do not reproduce without permission to avoid copyright infringement.

However, Chen also shared that behind the glamorous facade lies a lot of hardship. Regarding the signature square pearls, some customers have complained that they’re too soft and overpriced. In response, he explained,the pearls are entirely handmade and natural. Without preservatives, they tend to be softer. Meanwhile, the brand’s commitment to refined and natural tea leaves naturally leads to higher drink prices,which he admits is the toughest part of the business.

▲ No matter which branch you visit, the queue is always impressive. (Photo/Provided by the store)

ETNEWS News Cloud has compiled the current “three branch features” of WANT To Drink. Next time you pass by, why not stop for a while? Beyond trying something new, it’s also a way to support young entrepreneurs and experience the heartfelt message the owner wants to convey—a drink that’s full of warmth and emotion, turning “wanting” to drink into “actually” drinking.

▲ The Zhongli flagship store features a large white wall with a black logo that’s a must-photo spot; the original sign design was inspired by the rhythm of a heartbeat, water waves, and sound frequencies. (Photo/IG)@h_a_n.7Provided. Please do not reproduce without permission to avoid copyright infringement.

1. Zhongli Central Store

This flagship store in Zhongli, Taoyuan, opened in January this year,boasting a fashionable and minimalist style with a clean, tech-inspired aesthetic of white backgrounds and black text.The large white area paired with a black logo makes it a must-photo landmark.

Address: No. 112, Zhongyang East Road, Zhongli District, Taoyuan City
Phone: 03 426 6670
Business hours: 11:00–21:50

▲The Hsinchu store features an avant-garde wall design that incorporates elements of the “Windy City.” (Photo/IG provided, please do not reproduce without permission.)@yooneyuProvided, please do not reproduce without permission to avoid infringement.

2. Hsinchu Station Front Store

The newly opened Hsinchu store in July is just a 3-minute walk from Hsinchu Railway Station. As Hsinchu is known as the Windy City, the shop takes “bamboo” as its theme,using striped bamboo to form the main backdrop of the exterior wall, while integrating black, gray, white, silver, iron, aluminum, and steel elements. Unlike the minimalist style of the flagship store, this one takes an avant-garde approach.Notably, this wall is combined with LED lighting, making it suitable not only for static photos but also for dynamic video shoots. The dazzling lights shining on the bamboo create an incredibly lively atmosphere.

Address: No. 16, Minzu Rd., East District, Hsinchu City
Phone: 03 526 6664
Business hours: 11:00–21:50

▲The newly opened Kaohsiung store features a giant hand-shaken drink that’s very eye-catching. (Photo/IG provided, please do not reproduce without permission.)@ronfatProvided, please do not reproduce without permission to avoid infringement.

3. Kaohsiung Ruifeng Store

The newest Kaohsiung store, opened in September, boasts an incredibly interactive window display featuring agiant hand-shaken drink nearly 180 cm tall filled with large square pearls.Visitors can freely take photos in front of the window, posing as fashion models, or interact with props and the oversized cup—super adorable. The design adopts a dark, textured color scheme, and at night, LED lighting enhances the effect. The Kaohsiung store is the only one of the three with a rest area and is the first to launch this year’s new featured coffee series.

Address: No. 541, Nanping Rd., Gushan District, Kaohsiung City
Phone: 07 553 5366
Business hours: 11:00–22:00