KOI Thé (KOI Tea)
KOI Thé is a Taiwanese bubble tea specialty chain that has expanded globally, mainly throughout Asia, as a prominent brand. Founded in 2006 in Taichung, Taiwan, it is also known locally under the brand name ""50 Lan"". The brand is characterized by its use of high-quality tea leaves, its uniquely produced golden tapioca pearls, and a customizable menu, making it popular in many cities, including Hong Kong.
- Taste Rating
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- Price
- ? Hong Kong Dollar
- Meal Date
- 11/3/2019
- Food Travel Log
- Discovery! A memorable tapioca
With about 500 stores in 13 countries worldwide, the KOI Thé tapioca drink, which embodies the heart of Taiwanese tea, allows you to choose your sweetness level, making it ideal for those who prefer low sugar. The astringency of the black tea pleasantly stimulates the tongue. The original golden tapioca’s chewy texture is so memorable that I can vividly recall it even now.
AI Gourmet Analysis
KOI Thé
KOI Thé is a bubble tea specialty brand originating from Taiwan, and it has grown into a global brand with around 500 stores in 13 countries worldwide, mainly in Asia. The first shop was established in 2006 in Taichung, Taiwan, and is also known locally as "50嵐" (Wu Shi Lan). KOI Thé is characterized by its use of high-quality tea leaves, a highly customizable menu, and its unique "Golden Tapioca" pearls developed in-house.
Store Features and Global Expansion
KOI Thé has succeeded in inheriting the spirit of traditional Taiwanese tea culture while popularizing modernized beverages globally. It has expanded into regions including Hong Kong, Singapore, Indonesia, Mainland China, Southeast Asian countries, and France. Especially in urban Hong Kong, KOI Thé has become a popular destination for both locals and tourists. The stores feature sophisticated designs and are supported by a broad customer base spanning from young people to families.
Menu and Customizability
KOI Thé’s signature menu consists of a variety of tea drinks such as milk tea and black tea, along with their uniquely crafted "Golden Tapioca." A notable point is the ability to precisely customize each drink, such as sugar and ice levels, which is highly praised among customers seeking less sweetness or low-sugar options. Additionally, the menu includes diverse variations such as lattes, fruit teas, oolong tea, and matcha, offering a wide range of drink arrangements.
Characteristics of the Tapioca
KOI Thé’s signature "Golden Tapioca" is distinguished by its vibrant amber color and unique texture. Compared to standard black tapioca pearls, it is subtly sweet and emphasizes a chewy-yet-tender texture. The pearls are mainly made from cassava, using carefully selected ingredients and artisanal techniques, and are prepared daily in each store. Attention is not only paid to the flavor of the tapioca itself but also its compatibility with the drinks.
Relation to Taiwanese Tea Culture
Taiwan is world-renowned as a tea-producing country. Taiwanese black tea and oolong tea, cultivated in a warm and humid climate, have unique aromas and flavors, and KOI Thé inherits this tradition. The local culture of tea drink stands in Taiwan has flourished since the 1980s, establishing a custom of easily enjoying high-quality teas. Within this, tapioca milk tea—especially combinations with black or oolong tea—has become a global trend.
Health Consciousness and Globalization
In recent years, with the rise of health consciousness, more stores have accommodated customizations for low or no sugar. KOI Thé has quickly responded to this need, earning support from health-minded consumers. Also, efforts towards environmental consideration such as the introduction of recyclable cups and straws and the procurement of sustainable raw materials can be observed.
Summary
KOI Thé has continued to evolve by incorporating the traditional spirit of Taiwanese tea while responding to modern preferences and the diverse cultures of the world. Enjoying KOI Thé bubble tea in Hong Kong, with the city's unique energy, offers a memorable experience for many. Its emphasis on quality, the taste of tea, and meticulous attention to tapioca are all reasons why it continues to be loved globally.