Anthony Wu | Head Editor
February 10, 2023
Regardless of where you stand on Boba, the one thing that you’ll hear from all the fanatics in our high school is that it’s really hard to find good boba in San Clemente. Within our small town, there are few stores which sell it, and only one that specializes in it specifically. Unfortunately, San Clemente boba suffers from two universal problems.
One, the tea is almost always too sweet, usually made with powder that gives it an artificial and sour aftertaste.
Two, the boba is inconsistent. Sometimes what you get is a rock in your mouth and other times it’s just a pile of mush lurking at the bottom of your drink.
“I don’t like any boba in San Clemente,” says aficionado Katie Walker, “The tea tastes artificial, it’s too sweet, and the boba is not consistent at all.”
If you’re frustrated with the boba situation in San Clemente, you’re in luck! There are plenty of excellent boba shops around, though it may take a little bit of driving. Here’s a list of the top five, to save you time and frustration.
Best Local: Matcha (Poke Tiki)
The undisputed champion of boba in San Clemente is merged with Poke Tiki right on Pico Plaza. If you’re looking for a quick fix and a short drive, this is the spot for you. While it’s not the best drink you’ll ever have, per se, it is a worthwhile spot to go, especially for those who are just trying it out.
Best Quality within a reasonable distance: Ding Tea, also known as Boba Addict
Ding Tea in Mission Viejo is the closest authentic milk tea you can find. “There’s a wide variety of teas to pick from,” said Katie, “and you can choose the sweetness you want.” Ding Tea marks the dividing line between Boba territory up north, a land of authentic and genuine milk-tea, compared with everywhere else.
Runner-Up: Yi Fang
Yi Fang is located in a small shop off Jeffery road, in a plaza with 99 Ranch, House of Shabu Shabu, and many amazing restaurants. It’s the perfect treat after lunch or dinner, and the milk teas – by god, they’re amazing! They have a ton of different teas, lattes, and fruit drinks, but the best of all is their Super Trio Milk Tea, packed with any three toppings you choose. From boba to red bean to black sticky rice, Yi Fang has everything you can ask for.
Best Overall: Omomo
Omomo is always packed with a long line, and for good reason. Its teas look super fancy, and they’re delicious right to the bottom. With hundreds of five star reviews, Omomo lives up to the hype. “I always go to Omomo when I’m looking for milk tea,” said Katie. “It’s the best.”
omomo>>>> gongcha @amandacabagbag
i like SC donuts boba because mmm yummy snack when after school mm yummy
UPDATE: Ramen Cafe’s Taro Milk Tea w/ Boba is by far the best locally, with the Milk Tea comparable to some of the best shops up in Irvine (though the Boba needs some work). Also, don’t get their Jasmine Milk Tea, it tastes like water.