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Boba tea has arrived in downtown Patchogue, thanks to Kelly Zhou and her fast-growing YAAAS Tea brand.
Zhou opened her shop last week at 38 S. Ocean Ave., the former spot of Cloud Nine Ice Cream & Cereal Bar.
“We are beyond excited to finally be here in Patchogue,” said Zhou, who launched her newest location during Patchogue’s second Alive After Five festival of the summer. “This is a dream come true.”
This is her fourth location, with others in Farmingdale, Huntington, and Hauppauge. There are also two more in the works, one in both Great Neck and Rockville Centre. She started the company in 2021.
YAAAS Tea serves a variety of boba teas as well as classic milk teas, fresh teas, and creme brûlée-style drinks.
So, what is boba tea?
Boba tea, commonly referred to as bubble tea, is a beverage originated from Taiwan that combines a base tea, such as black or green tea, with a blend of milk or fruit flavors. What sets boba tea apart is the unique inclusion of tapioca pearls, small and chewy balls that add texture and settle at the bottom of the drink.
Zhou’s passion for the boba tea business comes from her upbringing in China, where she spent many childhood moments sitting together with family and friends, enjoying the tea and desserts her grandmother made.
Now, she is on a mission to share her favorite childhood treats with people across Long Island.
That includes Daniella Bosch, a Mastic woman, who was one of the first to try the new Patchogue location.
“I love boba tea,” she told Greater Long Island at the opening. “I am so happy there is now a Boba shop close to me.”
— Reporting with Starr Fuentes
Check out their Instagram for more photos.
Top: Kelly Zhou (middle) with her employees at the grand opening of the YAAAS Tea Patchogue location. (Credit: Starr Fuentes)
