Bubble Tea at T-Magic in Morningside Heights

[Photos: Carrie Vasios]

This small tea shop in Morningside Heights has a long list of flavors, and boba that are consistently soft and chewy. The menu is divided into fruit-flavored teas, milk teas, and fruit-milk hybrids. In addition to boba, other toppings include green jelly, red bean, and pudding. The teas are available hot or cold, making this a good year-round destination.

Ginger, oolong, and passion fruit green are all good choices. But my favorite tea might be taro, and not just because it's a pretty light purple color. It's sweet but not overpowering with a hint of sweet potato flavor.

Another interesting option is the rose tea. Be warned, though: this tea is intensely floral. If you like the flavor but find it a bit overpowering, try ordering it without milk to make it more refreshing.

In cooler weather I crave the sesame milk tea served either hot or cold. It has a deep caramel flavor with hints of coffee and chocolate. My only gripe is that the drink contains actual bits of ground black sesame, which gives it a slightly gritty texture.

T-Magic also sells frozen yogurt, but skip it and try the homemade puddings or dumplings (they also own East Dumpling House on 106th and Broadway). Or try the Milk Toast: a thick slice of white bread drenched in condensed milk and topped with sweet condiments like Nutella.

At T-Magic, the menu is so enticing that I end up ordering a new tea every time. What's your favorite bubble tea?

T-Magic

2878 Broadway New York, NY 10025 (map); (212) 666-3665

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