heytea (Columbia University) — Restaurant in New York

HeyTea isn’t just a boba shop—it’s an institution in the Asian beverage scene, and for very good reason. Known for taking tea seriously (and fruit even more so), this place consistently serves up drinks that taste like someone actually cared about flavor balance, texture, and that oh-so-critical sweetness level.

I ordered the Green Grape Boom, which felt less like a drink and more like a love letter to summer. It came packed with real green grape chunks—actual fruit, not just essence or artificial vibes—and blended into a slush that never turned into that dreaded flavorless ice mound. The sweetness was subtle and refreshing, a major plus in the Asian community, where “not too sweet” is one of the highest compliments a drink can earn.

Like many great things in New York, there’s a wait. But that’s only because HeyTea still has people coming back again and again, and you won’t find anyone here mad about it. They’re sipping happily, knowing it’s worth the time.

A fun bonus? HeyTea is currently on the Claim app, which means free boba is up for grabs if you sign up. Yes, you read that right—free. Boba. We live in a beautiful world.

In short: HeyTea continues to set the standard for fruit-forward, tea-rich drinks that feel thoughtful, not sugary. From slush to pearls, it’s crafted with care—and a green grape dream that’s...

*"I really enjoy this place, especially the Green Grape Boom—it’s fantastic! However, I think there’s room for improvement in terms of equipment upgrades and staff training.

One issue I noticed was during a visit when I was waiting for my drink. The staff was cleaning the workstation instead of preparing orders, which felt unprofessional, especially since there were customers waiting. While cleanliness is important, prioritizing drink preparation during busy times would make the service more efficient.

Additionally, the cleaning towels seemed unsanitary—I noticed two colors, and the green ones were often stained, torn, and visibly dirty. Fresher, better-maintained supplies would definitely elevate the overall experience.

Despite these hiccups, I still love coming here and hope these points can...

This is easily one of my favorite tea shops! The drinks are always top-tier — fresh, flavorful, and perfectly balanced. You can really taste the quality of the ingredients, from their creamy milk teas to the refreshing fruit blends. And that signature cheese foam? Absolutely addictive!

The staff are always super friendly and attentive, even when it’s busy. They make every visit feel smooth and enjoyable, and the store is always spotless and well-organized. I also love how they’re always introducing fun new flavors — it keeps things exciting every time I visit.

Everything from the drinks to the atmosphere is on point. HEYTEA just has that perfect mix of great taste, great service, and great vibes. Definitely a solid 5-star experience every...