Giant Boba and Unique Treats Take Center Stage at Ottawa’s Newest Bubble Tea Shop

A new bubble tea shop in Ottawa, Xing Fu Tang, has captured the attention of local beverage lovers with its creative offerings, particularly its giant boba and bunny jelly drinks. Located at 175 Main St Unit 2, this establishment is quickly becoming a go-to spot for those seeking unique twists on traditional bubble tea.

The shop, co-owned by Rose Nguyen and her husband Jack Vu, opened its doors in July 2022. Inspired by her experiences in Taiwan, where she first tasted what she describes as “pure, authentic tapioca,” Nguyen aimed to recreate that quality in Ottawa. The initial response was overwhelming, with crowds lining up around the building on opening day, a clear indication of the demand for high-quality bubble tea in the area.

Since then, the shop has become known for its innovative drinks, especially the oversized boba, which are larger than a ping pong ball. Nguyen introduced these playful toppings during the Chinatown Night Market last summer and quickly made them a permanent fixture on the menu. She explained, “We can add the giant boba to anything,” emphasizing the versatile nature of the new addition.

The giant boba stands out not only for its size but also for its texture. Unlike traditional tapioca pearls, which can be difficult to chew, Nguyen developed a recipe using herbal jelly, a plant-based dessert that is both light and easy to enjoy through a straw. This change has proven popular, with customers frequently returning in search of “the big ones.”

Innovative Offerings and Local Adaptation

In addition to the giant boba, Xing Fu Tang maintains classic bubble tea options, ensuring that traditional flavors remain accessible. Each morning, the team prepares between 70 to 80 kilograms of housemade boba, with output soaring to around 200 kilograms during busy festival periods. This dedication to quality is reflected in their production methods, which include hand-rolling the tapioca pearls in Taiwanese brown sugar for a distinctive caramel-like glaze.

Nguyen also tailored the menu to cater to Ottawa’s health-conscious clientele. “We don’t add any extra sugar. The sweetness in all our drinks is just from the tapioca,” she said. Customers appreciate this approach, often noting the difference in texture and flavor compared to pre-packaged pearls, which tend to lose their chewiness quickly.

New offerings, such as the coconut jelly bunny and refreshing fruit slushes, add to the shop’s appeal. The coconut jelly bunny, a visually charming addition, provides a mild texture that complements the other drinks. During a recent visit, a staff member introduced a yet-to-be-released “cloud drink,” featuring matcha foam layered over coconut water, showcasing the shop’s commitment to experimentation and customer feedback.

A Community Hub with a Focus on Engagement

With the first anniversary approaching on July 28, 2023, the shop has cultivated a loyal customer base. Many patrons have incorporated Xing Fu Tang into their weekly routines, returning for both the delicious beverages and the inviting atmosphere. To further engage the community, Nguyen has hosted events such as board game nights and mahjong tournaments during the quieter winter months.

The name Xing Fu Tang, which translates to “House of Happiness,” reflects Nguyen’s vision of creating a space where customers leave satisfied and eager to return. The combination of innovative drinks, community involvement, and a commitment to quality has established the shop as a vibrant addition to the local dining scene.

As the popularity of Xing Fu Tang continues to grow, it stands as a testament to the evolving landscape of bubble tea in Ottawa. With its unique offerings and community focus, the shop has not only delighted locals but has also set a new standard for bubble tea in the region.