Bubble tea, also known as boba, is a beloved beverage with a loyal following. Its chewy tapioca pearls and sweet, flavored teas have taken the world by storm. But what if I told you that there's a place in Burnaby, British Columbia, that takes bubble tea to the next level? Shiny Tea, located at 9855 Austin Ave #230, Burnaby, BC V3J 1N4, offers a unique twist on this classic drink, and we recently had the pleasure of experiencing it for the first time.
Shiny Tea is a Taiwanese tea cafe with multiple locations across Metro Vancouver. It's a haven for tea enthusiasts and anyone looking for a refreshing and delicious drink. What sets this place apart is its offering of Tea-lato, a combination of Taiwanese tea and Italian gelato. With enticing options like Black Forest, Brown Sugar Storm, and Oreo Sky, we decided to try something different and explore the world of Tea-lato.
First Impressions
Upon arriving at the Shiny Tea location in Burnaby, we were pleasantly surprised by the ambiance. The cafe was spacious, featuring a variety of seating options, making it an ideal spot for hanging out with friends, studying, or getting some work done. The calming red-themed decor, adorned with cherry blossoms and a hint of Taiwanese culture, made us feel like we had been transported to Taiwan.
As we approached the counter to place our orders, we couldn't help but be drawn in by the aromatic scents wafting from the kitchen. Shiny Tea not only offers an impressive selection of drinks but also serves food and desserts that are certainly worth a try. The menu is extensive, showcasing their creative prowess when it comes to Taiwanese tea and gelato concoctions.
What We Ordered
Our taste adventure began when we ordered the Brown Sugar and Oreo Sky Tea-latos. As we waited in anticipation, we couldn't help but marvel at the presentation of the drinks. The Tea-latos were served in clear cups, allowing us to admire the layers of Taiwanese tea and creamy gelato. It was like a work of art in a cup.
Our first scoops left us speechless. The Tea-latos were incredibly creamy with a rich, robust tea flavor. The fragrance of the Taiwanese tea was distinct and inviting. The Brown Sugar Tea-lato had a delightful caramel note that was perfectly balanced with the tea's natural bitterness. Meanwhile, the Oreo Sky Tea-lato was a chocolatey heaven with bits of crushed Oreos, adding a delightful crunch to the smooth concoction.
What struck us the most was how these Tea-latos retained the essence of bubble tea but in an ice cream version. The chewy tapioca pearls were replaced by velvety gelato, offering a unique and delicious texture that we hadn't encountered before. It was a delightful surprise and a testament to Shiny Tea's commitment to innovation.
Game Night
Shiny Tea also stands out for its community-oriented approach. Every Wednesday and Friday from 5-7pm, they host game nights, where all their drinks are 20% off. You can enjoy classic board games like Monopoly and Uno while sipping on your favorite tea creation. It's a great way to unwind with friends or family, and it adds an extra layer of warmth to the already welcoming atmosphere.
Another highlight of our visit was the opportunity to purchase a cute panda stuffie, which serves as the brand's mascot. It's a charming keepsake that anyone couldn't resist bringing home.
The prices at Shiny Tea are reasonable, with the Panda Stuffies ranging from $14.99 to $38.99 CAD. However, during our visit, they had a 50% off offer, which made our experience even more affordable. For those who want to enjoy Shiny Tea's teas at home, they also offer a range of their famous teas, including Sri Lanka Black Tea, Jasmine Smoke Green Tea, Ice Peak Oolong Tea, Roasted TinGuanYin, Precious Pu-erh Tea, and Fresh Jade Green Tea, priced between $10.49 and $12.38 CAD.
In conclusion, Shiny Tea is a must-visit destination for bubble tea and tea lovers alike. The Tea-latos are a delicious innovation, seamlessly blending Taiwanese tea and Italian gelato, resulting in a truly unique and enjoyable experience. The welcoming ambiance, community events, and creative decor make it an ideal spot to relax and socialize. Whether you're in the mood for a tea-lato or a classic bubble tea, Shiny Tea has something to satisfy your cravings. So, make your way to 9855 Austin Ave #230, Burnaby, BC V3J 1N4, and embark on a delightful tea adventure at Shiny Tea. Your taste buds will thank you.
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