Bubbles & Boba: Bubbleology launch new store in Notting Hill

The bubble tea-lovers of London had every reason to celebrate last Thursday with the launch of a new Bubbleology store in Notting Hill.

In case you hadn’t heard, bubble tea is the sweet-flavoured Taiwanese drink taking the world – if the writing on Bubbleology’s walls is to be believed – by storm. Europe has been a little slow on the uptake, but the brains (and bellies!) behind Bubbleology are looking to change this, and London is listening. This is the city’s third Bubbleology to open since its inception in April last year, and with four distinct seating and lounge areas spread over two levels, it’s by far the largest.

The launch party was buzzing, with bubble tea appreciators treated to tea samples, passion-fruit champagne, and delicious alcoholic tea-based  beverages (the cucumber and passion-fruit drink was delicious; sadly Bubbleology is an alcohol-free establishment at all other times). “Mixologists” in white lab-coats busied themselves behind the bar with ice, flavourings and cocktail-esque shaking techniques while guests nibbled on brightly-coloured rice pops and explored the new premises.

Anyone who has been to Bubbleology before (they’re also in Soho and Knightsbridge) will instantly recognise the décor: black and white, with exposed wiring, industrial lighting, and a window display of flasks and beakers brimful of garishly-coloured liquids. There’s plenty of seating available, whether you prefer to sit at the bar upstairs, the lounge areas past the bar and down the stairs, or cafe-style in the little slate-pebbled outdoor area.

The tea is served with delicious chewy tapioca balls (bubbles) and a fat straw to suck them up with. Bubbleology’s flavours range from typical tea varieties like assam or jasmine to fruity fusions (with or without milk), cocoa and mocha. They’re served hot or cold, with or without tapioca – or, if you fancy something a little more adventurous at the bottom of your cup, try one of the flavoured jellies or their amazing popping boba (that’s all we can tell you, no spoilers allowed).

Whether you’re new to bubble tea or a long-time addict, the Notting Hill Bubbleology is a great new place to enjoy this strange but delicious phenomenon!

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For further information on Bubbleology Notting Hill, 45 Pembridge Road, Notting Hill, London, W11 3HG, visit here.