CoCo

CoCo

Bubble tea seemed like one of those trends that become the flavour of the month and then disappear to the abyss of outdatedness which is the fate for most trends. However, Bubble tea (or Boba) has spread around South East Asia like fire and has been spreading like fire to even include Australia and New Zealand. This drink was created in the 1980s in Taiwan and quickly became popular with youth. The iconic tapioca balls (pearls) is one of the most popular options out of the many variants of this drink.

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The two main categories for Boba tea is milk based tea or fruit flavoured teas. My personal favourite has always been the milk based one due to the richness and intensity of flavour. The most popular choices I have seen are based on flavours such as Matcha, mango, royal milk etc. Not only has it become popular due to these flavours but also due to the fact that they are branded off as being ‘healthy’ and has low calories. This is debatable as the amount of sugar added into these drinks may raise eyebrows. For example, a regular Royal milk tea with tapioca balls (pearls) can add up to 300 calories. The main issue is that its 300 calories of rich condensed dairy and sugar. Of course, you can grab the healthier options that are based more on green and black teas without any tapioca balls. You could also choose the amount of sugar you want in them.

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This feature is common in many different chains found around (including Adelaide). One of the most popular one in the city is CoCo. I recall how when I first ordered here I was slightly overwhelmed by the options. You could choose whether you want ‘quarter, half, three quarters or full sugar’. I once tried it with half sugar and realised how different the whole concoction tasted. In essence, it would taste like regular tea without much sugar. You could also choose whether to have ice added or not. These teas are better served cold rather than hot. They are also pretty quick to prepare and great to enjoy on a hot day out.

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Often, especially in the early afternoon, you will have lines that stretch outside of the venue as many teenagers head to their favourite bubble tea shops. The most common sight you’ll see would be multiple (predominantly female) school students in uniform lining up for their bubble tea fix after school. CoCo is part of a chain of bubble tea that can be found all over Adelaide. Although there are many different chains and shops to check out that might have the flavours you want. Make sure to drink this stuff in moderation as it is quite sugary. Although, it is a nice treat to have. The pricing ranges from 4. 5-7AUD depending on the size of your drink and what you have inside of the drink. Also, if you plan to drink bubble tea more often then look into membership cards or loyalty cards where you receive a free drink after a certain amount purchased. Just don’t let that be the main motivator to binge drink. Don’t be fooled by marketing schemes. Anyway, happy drinking and stay healthy!