Welcome to Bobaland, USA. 🧋 Los Angeles is the foundation of boba culture in the United States, thanks to a vast population of Asian Americans residing across Southern California. In the 1990s, the Taiwanese beverage began making its way stateside, fueling a relentless growth of shops across the country.⁠ ⁠ In the years since its introduction, boba has morphed into its own bona fide beverage industry, now fully realized with layers of customization, specialty ingredients, and preparations. Brands like Starbucks, Peet’s, and Dunkin’ have tried to capitalize on the trend. But the boba of 2022 is far different from that of a decade ago. While powders and flavorings still abound on the budget end of the market, today’s aspiring baristas shake fresh seasonal fruits, use organic milks (both dairy and plant-based), and infuse whole tea leaves to create colorful, beautiful beverages that can even serve as status symbols.⁠ ⁠ From an interview with a boba superfan to the four boba shops you need to know in Southern California, tap the link in our bio for our ultimate guide to this beloved beverage. (via @eater_la)⁠ ⁠ 📷: @secretstan