Pink pearls that even Apink is amazed by—hidden gem gradient strawberry milk

Reported by Zhu Xiaoyuan / Interview & Reporting

Walking near the Technology Building MRT Station, it’s hard not to be drawn to this small shop tucked away in a residential area. With wood as its main decorative element and a distinctly Japanese-sounding name, it may come as a surprise that “Muzi Riqing” is actually a takeaway drink and light meal shop. Since opening in August 2016—less than a year ago—it has quickly become a popular drink on Instagram, thanks to its incredibly dreamy pink pearls and freshly made strawberry milk.

▲The pink red bean pearls pair well with either strawberry milk or honey. (Photo/IG user)kfhmcbs331Please do not reproduce without permission to avoid copyright infringement.)

▲The pink pearls stand out beautifully against the dark background. (Photo/IG user)yawenlu224、bud317Please do not reproduce without permission to avoid copyright infringement.)

In addition to going viral on Instagram, the dreamy drink “Pink Pearl Milk Tea” has gained international fame too. When the popular South Korean girl group Apink held a press meet in Taiwan last November, the organizers specially served them Taiwan’s representative drink—pearl milk tea. The strawberry milk pearls that the members raved about were made by Muzi Riqing.

▲Gradient strawberry milk pearls with visible strawberry bits, and pearl matcha lattes. (Photo/IG user)sr.sr.0210Please do not reproduce without permission to avoid copyright infringement.)

The owner stated that in today’s world full of food safety concerns, he hopes to present the original flavors of food to consumers. Therefore, the signature—and also hidden menu—item, strawberry milk pearls, is different from the black pearls on the market that use caramel coloring. Instead, they are made daily with red beans, paired with fresh Guanxi milk from Taitung and fresh strawberries from Dahu, all freshly prepared. Although the price is not as low as other common bubble tea shops, it is a much healthier choice.

▲Muzi Riqing’s matcha has lower sweetness, and when paired with red bean pearls, it tastes sweet but not greasy. (Photo/IG user)matcha_twPlease do not reproduce without permission to avoid copyright infringement.)

Besides strawberry milk, another popular item is the pearl matcha latte, which uses matcha from Mingjian Township in Nantou. It has lower sweetness and a stronger bitterness, but allows you to taste the pure flavor of matcha. In addition, the shop also offers freshly made sandwiches and French toast. With both drinks and food, it’s hard not to feel super happy. Next time you’re at the Technology Building MRT Station, why not grab a super dreamy strawberry milk pearl to go?

▲French toast soaked in Guanxi fresh milk. (Photo/Courtesy of Muzi Riqing Daily Specialty Store)Muzi Riqing Daily Specialty StoreFan Page)

Muzi Riqing
Address: No. 25, Lane 170, Siwei Road, Da’an District, Taipei City
Phone: (02)2706-3201
Business Hours: Weekdays 10:00–19:30 / Saturdays 10:30–17:30 / Closed on Sundays