London list:

Truedan (珍煮丹):

When it comes to bubble tea in London, Truedan is often overlooked, but I think it deserves a bit more attention. Unlike other places that might lean too heavily on sugary sweetness, Truedan focuses on what I think is the most important element of bubble tea: the tea itself!

From the moment I took my first sip, I was hooked on the depth of flavour. The brown sugar milk tea isn’t just sweet, it’s rich and full-bodied, with the tea flavour coming through clearly, which is something I value in a good bubble tea. It’s a bold contrast to some other places where the milk and syrup seem to drown out any tea taste. Coming in at just around £4.50, the price was on point too!

The pearls are on point too, with that perfect chewy texture, and they’re soaked in just the right amount of syrup. While I understand it’s not the most well-known shop, and it might not be for everyone (some might find it a bit too tea-forward), I think that’s what makes Truedan stand out.

If you're after a bubble tea experience that prioritizes strong tea flavour over just sugary syrup, Truedan might just be your hidden gem. It’s a little under the radar, sure, but that’s exactly why I love it. For me, it’s the best in London — but I can see why some might feel differently.

4.7 Bobas/5

Lucky Tea (小确茶):

Coming in second on my brown sugar milk tea chart is Lucky Tea, a shop that gets a lot right and overall, delivers a really satisfying boba experience.

What stood out to me the most was the balance. The brown sugar sweetness was noticeable but not overpowering, and the milk was smooth and creamy. While the tea flavour wasn’t quite as bold or deep as Truedan’s, it was still present — just a little more mellow, which some people might actually prefer.

The pearls were fresh and chewy, and had a nice warmth to them, likely soaked in brown sugar syrup just before serving. There’s a comforting, well-rounded feel to their drink — like it’s been tested and refined to appeal to a wider crowd.

Lucky Tea might not hit quite as hard on the tea flavour for someone like me, who loves that strong brewed taste, but overall, it’s a super solid pick. I can see why it’s a favourite for many — and honestly, it almost took the top spot.

4.6 Bobas/5

Gong Cha (貢茶):

Taking third place on my list is Gong Cha, one of the more recognisable names in bubble tea — and for good reason. It’s consistent, widely available, and has a signature smoothness that keeps people coming back.

Their brown sugar milk tea is on the sweeter side, with a rich caramel note from the syrup that makes it feel like a real treat. The pearls are chewy and warm, perfectly textured, and nicely coated in brown sugar. It’s a drink that feels polished — well-prepared, well-balanced, and easy to enjoy.

While the tea flavour isn’t as pronounced as in Truedan or Lucky Tea, it’s still there in the background, rounding out the drink. For those who prefer a creamier, dessert-like bubble tea that doesn’t try to be too complex, Gong Cha hits the spot.

It might not be the boldest cup I’ve had, but it’s definitely one of the most enjoyable. If you’re looking for something dependable, sweet, and satisfying, Gong Cha holds its own comfortably in the top three.

4.3 Bobas/5

Xing Fu Tang (幸福堂)

In fourth place is Xing Fu Tang, a shop that feels a bit like the luxury version of bubble tea — and while it has its strengths, it’s not quite my ideal cup.

There’s no denying the presentation is impressive. From the golden brown sugar streaks to the torched surface and handcrafted look, it’s definitely made to stand out. But the flavour, while rich and indulgent, leans very sweet — and with no option to adjust the sugar level, it can be a bit much if you’re not in the mood for a sugar bomb.

The tea flavour takes a backseat here, and while the pearls are soft and syrupy, they don’t have that chewy contrast I usually enjoy. It’s not a bad drink by any means — it’s definitely satisfying in a dessert kind of way — but for someone who prefers a more balanced, tea-forward experience, it feels a bit too dressed up.

I can see why people love Xing Fu Tang for the experience and style, but for me, bubble tea doesn’t need to be fancy — just flavourful and well-balanced. That’s where this one misses the mark slightly, even though it’s still a solid contender.

4.2 Bobas/5

The Whale Tea (琉璃鯨)

Rounding out my top five is The Whale Tea, a shop with a fun aesthetic and some seriously good boba pearls. While it doesn’t quite reach the same level as the others on this list, there are still a few things it does really well.

The brown sugar milk tea here is on the lighter side — the tea flavour is there, but it's quite mild, especially compared to places like Truedan or Lucky Tea. For someone who prefers bold, brewed tea notes, this might leave you wanting a bit more. That said, it’s a smooth, easy drink, and for anyone new to boba or just in the mood for something softer and sweeter, it’s a safe choice.

The real standout here is the pearls. They’re chewy, fresh, and perfectly cooked — honestly some of the best I’ve had. The texture is exactly what you want in a good boba. Not too tough, but still with a bit of chew to it, and slightly sweet from the syrup.

The Whale Tea might not be the most intense or flavour-forward, but it’s enjoyable, consistent, and those pearls definitely steal the show.

4.0 Bobas/5