Sip Around Downtown: A Guide to Bellevue’s Boba Spots
September 30, 2026 - by Mackenzie Ault
Craving something sweet, refreshing, and a little bit chewy? Boba tea, also known as bubble tea, has become a favorite for its endless mix of flavors, textures, and customizable options. Typically served chilled and sweetened, boba tea can be made with tea, milk or creamer, and a variety of toppings, including the signature tapioca pearls, or “boba.” These soft, chewy pearls are made from tapioca starch derived from the cassava plant and add a fun texture to every sip. Whether you prefer classic milk tea, fruity flavors, or something completely your own, Downtown Bellevue has plenty of boba spots to explore. We’re rounding up some of the local favorites so you can find your next go-to cup right in the heart of Downtown Bellevue.
Rooted in a passion for Taiwanese tea, Chicha San Chen has been perfecting the art of tea brewing for more than 20 years. With a mission to showcase the finest ingredients from Taiwan, the brand combines traditional tea craftsmanship with its exclusive teapresso machine, specially customized to bring out the unique character of each tea. Every cup is thoughtfully prepared to highlight the tea’s natural aroma and flavor, reflecting Chicha San Chen’s commitment to quality and authenticity. Today, Chicha San Chen brings its vision of an “international beverage originated from Taiwan” to tea lovers around the world, including Downtown Bellevue.
New to Downtown Bellevue in September, Cilo Lab brings together the best of Italian gelato and Asian tea culture in one creative, nature-inspired concept. Made with organic ingredients and premium teas, Cilo Lab transforms thoughtfully sourced ingredients into unique gelato flavors and refreshing drinks. The result is a delicious blend of tradition, creativity, and natural flavors. Be sure to try one of their must-try affogatos, where creamy gelato meets freshly brewed tea for a truly memorable treat.
HEYTEA brings a fresh, modern take to the ancient tradition of tea. Founded in China in 2012, the brand set out to make tea drinks with real tea, real milk, and natural ingredients, helping usher in a new era of creative tea beverages. HEYTEA is especially known for its signature Cheese Tea, which pairs freshly brewed tea with a lightly salted, creamy cheese foam for a unique sweet-and-savory sip. Since then, the menu has expanded to include vibrant fruit teas, milk teas, and other inventive creations, all inspired by the idea of giving traditional tea a contemporary twist. With a commitment to quality and thoughtful ingredients, HEYTEA offers a refreshing way to experience tea.
Founded in Shenzhen, China, Molly Tea brings a fresh and creative approach to tea drinking, inspired by the delicate aroma of jasmine and floral-scented Chinese teas. The brand explores floral and fruity ingredients sourced from around the world, pairing fragrant teas with a relaxed, modern experience designed to bring a little joy to every cup. Rooted in Eastern cultural heritage, Molly Tea’s distinctive “Eastern Modern” aesthetic gives the brand a stylish and contemporary feel, making it a popular choice among younger tea lovers. The brand's playful personality comes to life through colorful collaborations with beloved brands like Barbie and Hello Kitty, adding an extra touch of fun to the Molly Tea experience.
OMO Thai Tea puts a modern spin on a beloved Thai street classic, drawing inspiration from the rich tea traditions of Thailand. Their signature Thai tea features a house blend of five tea leaves sourced from Thailand and brewed using a traditional hand-pulled method, creating a bold flavor, silky texture, and distinctive aroma. Ice and a touch of sweetness are an essential part of the recipe, helping balance the tea’s rich, creamy character. The result is a refreshing taste of Thai heritage made for today. Get Tea Drunk with OMO!
UGTEA blends tea, fashion, and nature into a modern bubble tea experience, with more than 13 years of expertise and a menu featuring premium matcha and floral milk teas. Inspired by nature, the brand plants a tree for every 1,000 drinks sold, while its stylish storefront brings that philosophy to life with signature green décor, lush greenery, and futuristic design. Whether you’re grabbing a matcha or taking a moment to unwind, UGTEA offers a refreshing experience that’s as visually striking as it is flavorful.

