Montréal’s best bubble tea
Bubble tea, sometimes known as boba tea, is an iconic drink of Taiwanese origin that harmoniously combines hot or cold tea, milk and tapioca balls. It has become a real phenomenon in la belle province, and the beverage is now available in a multitude of flavours. From the traditional brown sugar recipe to refreshing fruity infusions, here is our selection of the best places to enjoy an excellent bubble tea in Montréal.
Where to drink bubble teas in downtown Montréal
The Alley
Renowned worldwide for its artisanal know-how, The Alley’s Guy Street outlet appeals to bubble tea purists. Here, the cane sugar syrup and tapioca pearls are prepared on site every day, guaranteeing a texture of incomparable softness and a unique taste. Let yourself be tempted by their iconic signature drink, the “Deerioca,” a creamy marriage of fresh milk and caramelized brown sugar.
1256 Guy Street
YiFang Taiwan Fruit Tea
Globally recognized for its authenticity, this famous Taiwanese franchise offers a real immersion in traditional flavors, far from powders and artificial flavours. The brand stands out for its exceptional fruit teas, prepared daily from local fresh fruits and carefully selected organic teas imported from Taiwan. Its signature drink with traditional cane sugar and its fruity and refreshing creations are prepared with ancestral know-how, offering a pure, healthy experience of excellent quality.
1490 de Maisonneuve Boulevard West
Where to sip bubble teas on the Plateau Mont-Royal
Cinq Cinq Breuvages Fruité
Cinq Cinq instantly seduces with its freshness. In addition to its excellent traditional and fruity milk teas, patrons hurry there to enjoy their specialty: the “Ca Phe Muoi,” a salted cream coffee from the chef’s signature recipe. Don’t miss their delicious smoothies and their famous mango-flavoured crêpes.
4082 Saint-Denis Street
What are the best pearl tea chains in Montréal?
Maison O Thé
With over 10 years of expertise in the city’s West Island, this small chain prides itself on meticulously selecting high-quality ingredients. The menu offers an impressive range of beverages made from premium milk, yakuroto, Japanese matcha, decaf options and delicate flavours such as sakura and kori. Each drink is fully customizable according to your taste and sugar preference.
Several locations
L2 Bubble Tea
This 20-year-old pearl tea chain has attracted a large following among students and trend-setters. The shops stand out for their bold and playful recipes, perfect for those who want to venture off the beaten path and try new sweet combinations.
Several locations
Presotea
Located throughout the city, Presotea is particularly popular for its frozen smoothies rich in fresh fruit pulp. In addition to the classics, the brand offers unique textures by integrating healthy traditional ingredients such as basil seeds, grass jelly or lychee jelly into its teas.
Several locations
Shuyi Tealicious
For an authentic taste experience, Shuyi Tealicious highlights traditional flavours that are very popular in Asia. Their great success is based on their signature milk-infused tea with grass jelly. The menu also features delicious yogurt-based drinks and vitamin pairings including strawberry, mango, pomelo and citrus fruits.
Several locations
One Babo
A perfect marriage between Taiwanese authenticity and local produce, this chain stands out for its inclusive style. The brand offers exceptional teas rigorously selected in Taiwan, China, Japan or Sri Lanka, paired with local milk or plant-based alternatives (soy, almond, oat). In order to offer the best experience for everyone, their menu offers a wide variety of halal, gluten-free, lactose-free and vegan options.
Several locations
Kung Fu Tea
Recognized for its Taiwanese authenticity, this brand offers a dynamic experience in the heart of the city. Customers can explore a varied menu including classic milk and fruit teas, as well as more gourmet options such as the “Oreo Black Warrior.” Fully customizable, the drinks are adorned with jellies, mousse or their famous tapioca pearls.
Several locations
Original article in French by Laure Juilliard, adapted into English by Peter Wheeland.
Laure Juilliard
Originally from Paris, Laure Juilliard made Montréal her home over 15 years ago and has never looked back. Won over by her new city's unique energy, cultural vibrancy and gastronomic effervescence, she loves exploring all the coolest spots. A writer and blogger specialising in lifestyle, culture, travel and gastronomy, she has lent her pen to Tourisme Montréal for more than 10 years, in addition to magazines such as ELLE Québec and Clin d'œil, as well as a variety of well-known companies and agencies. Always on the lookout for innovative concepts and the best addresses wherever she is in the world, she is also always planning her next trip.