Long before tea was shaken with ice and tapioca pearls, it simmered in the kettles of ancient China. Legend says Emperor Shen Nong discovered tea when tea leaves drifted into his boiling water — and the rest is history.

In Japan, tea became a meditative ritual: matcha, revered and whisked in silence. In India, it became a bold conversation starter: masala chai, bursting with ginger, cardamom, and warming spices.

Across Southeast Asia, tea evolved into a beloved tradition — served hot or cold, bitter or sweet, always central to daily life. After centuries of being medicinal, ritualistic, and refreshing, tea now finds its way to you in every cup at Balance Grille.

Tea Across Cultures: From Ceremonies to Street Stalls

In East Asia, tea was sacred. Japanese and Chinese tea ceremonies are slow, deliberate, and full of respect, where every detail—from the porcelain’s click to the whisk’s swirl—matters.

With British colonialism, tea spread globally, flourishing in Indian and Sri Lankan plantations where locals crafted their own vibrant styles. Hong Kong’s milk teas made tea richer, and Taiwan gave birth to bubble tea — the chewy, playful innovation that took the world by storm.

Today, tea is a habit, ritual, and comfort across cultures worldwide.

The Birth of Bubble Tea: Taiwan’s Gift to the World

In 1980s Taiwan, someone had a bright idea: mix cold tea and milk, then add chewy tapioca pearls. Bubble tea was born—a refreshing revolution that quickly became a global obsession.

But Bubble tea   didn’t stop there. Fruit teas, popping boba, taro, matcha, and endless toppings followed. Personalization became the heart of the bubble tea craze, with Millennials and Gen Z spreading its aesthetic and fun worldwide.

From Taiwan’s bustling boba shops to your cup at Balance Grille, bubble tea is a vibrant journey of flavor and culture.

Bubble Tea at Balance Grille: Old World Tradition Meets New Age Flavor 

Our bubble teas blend global tradition with fresh, modern flair. Here are a few favorites from our menu:

• Thai Milk Tea: Bold and spiced with star anise and cardamom, this creamy black tea pays homage to Thailand’s lively street food scene. Fiery, fragrant, and indulgent, it’s a treat for the senses.
  
• Pom-Zu: A zesty, citrus-forward blend of pomegranate and yuzu, brightened with butterfly pea tea and energized by Red Bull. Topped with blueberry bubbles, it’s refreshing and lively.
  
• Black Magic: Juicy blackberry and zingy lemonade meet the buzz of Red Bull in this smooth, sweet, and energizing iced tea. Lychee bubbles add a fruity surprise to every sip.

We bring you centuries of tea heritage, made fresh and fun your way.

Tapioca Pearls & Popping Boba: The Modern Evolution of Tea Toppings 

It all started with tapioca pearls—the chewy, subtly sweet bites made from cassava root that define classic bubble tea.

But tea culture keeps evolving. Enter popping boba—juice-filled spheres that burst with flavor. No chewing needed; just pop and enjoy the explosion of taste.

At Balance Grille, choose from a full spectrum of toppings. Tea is your adventure, and we’re here to make every sip exciting.

From Ancient Asia to Your Hands: Tea’s Timeless Appeal 

Tea’s story is as rich and compelling as the bubble tea in your hand. From Emperor Shen Nong’s kettle to your cup at Balance Grille, tea is culture, tradition, comfort, and connection. It’s personality. It’s an aesthetic.

At Balance Grille, we honor those traditions while adding a modern twist. From ancient kettles to popping boba pearls, we keep tea’s timeless spirit alive.

Dine in, takeout, or order ahead — experience 5,000 years of tradition in every delicious sip, only at Balance Grille.