More popular abroad than at home: Five bubble tea brands that have conquered the world

By MOOK Scenic Spots Editorial Team

Taiwan often impresses the world with its cuisine and street food, among which bubble milk tea stands out as a national culinary icon. Loved not only by locals but also by international tourists, it has even expanded overseas with branches abroad. Below are four Taiwanese tea beverage brands that shine brightly both in Taiwan and internationally. These brands are hugely popular overseas, with locations all around the world where people can enjoy the delicious flavors of Taiwan.

1. Chatime
Chatime’s initial strategy focused on overseas expansion. With globally standardized quality, it has won worldwide popularity. It now spans Europe, the Americas, Asia, and Australasia, with over 33 regions and countries and more than 90 cities. Many locals flock there to try it for the first time.

2. Spring Tea House
With a history of over 30 years, Spring Tea House combines innovation with the culture of Taiwanese-style bubble milk tea and is credited with inventing the world’s first bubble milk tea. It is an indispensable brand in promoting Taiwanese bubble tea. It currently has 11 branches in Japan and is beloved by the Japanese.

3. Hanlin Tea House
Hanlin Tea House made its overseas debut in 2016 with its first branch in San Francisco, USA. In addition to its famous bubble milk tea, it also offers meals rich in traditional Taiwanese flavor. Its sub-brand “Xiang Cha” had already established branches across the United States, and Hanlin Tea House plans to expand to Los Angeles and Seattle in the future.

4. TenRen’s Tea
Aiming to build a global tea kingdom, TenRen’s Tea has branches in China, Japan, the United States, Canada, Australia, Malaysia, and other countries. In addition to tea and catering, it has also diversified into various other product lines.