When asking yourself about something to do near me in Portland with a group of friends or family, consider
Fat Straw
Why Fat Straw is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Fat Straws is a beloved family-owned business specializing in bubble tea and mochi donuts, with multiple locations across Dallas, Plano, Richardson, and Arlington. A standout feature of this vibrant tea shop is its commitment to quality and freshness — the tapioca bubbles are cooked every four hours to ensure a perfect springy texture, then steeped in a subtle brown and white sugar solution for just the right hint of sweetness. Their menu creatively incorporates cultural influences, like their popular Latin-inspired horchata bubble tea made with rice flour, cinnamon, and a blend of milks, offering a unique twist on classic flavors. The wide straws for which the shop is named allow patrons to enjoy the full boba experience comfortably, slurping up the pearls with ease. Fat Straws offers more than just drinks; its mochi donuts have become a local favorite, adding a delightful treat to accompany your beverage. The welcoming atmosphere makes it an excellent meeting place for friends who want to enjoy delicious, freshly made treats in a casual setting. Founded by Pham, a Dallas native with deep family ties to retail and community, the shop reflects a passion for hospitality and an authentic cultural heritage, making Fat Straws not only a tasty destination but a warm and vibrant gathering spot.
Here's what people think of Fat Straw
As of recent, Fat Straw holds a 4.4-star rating based on 505 reviews.
Customer reviews of Fat Straws highlight a generally positive experience, reflected in its strong 4.4-star rating from over 500 reviews. Many customers praise the freshness and quality of the bubble tea, particularly appreciating the authentic texture of the tapioca pearls and the innovative menu offerings like the horchata bubble tea. The mochi donuts also receive favorable comments for their unique flavor and complement to the beverages. Many note the friendly and inviting atmosphere of the shop, which contributes to an enjoyable social experience. On the employee side, reviews indicate Fat Straws is a positive workplace with a friendly team environment and a healthy, uplifting space to work. However, some employees mention less structured management and inconsistencies in promotions as drawbacks. On the flip side, negative customer feedback sometimes includes issues like bubble tea without tapioca pearls despite the name, or being charged extra for the pearls, which disappointed some visitors. A few reviews mention busy times when service could be slower. Nonetheless, the majority of the feedback remains favorable, emphasizing quality products and a great community vibe. Overall, Fat Straws is regarded as a reliable go-to spot for bubble tea enthusiasts and friends looking for a cozy place to connect over tasty drinks and treats.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Andy Baio
I've been coming to Fat Straw for over 15 years, and while sitting at one of the quiet tables by the window enjoying yet another flawless bubble tea, realized I should finally review it. Started in 2005, Fat Straw was one of the first bubble tea spots in Portland, and it's stuck around as long as it has because of how consistently delicious it is, with a welcoming vibe and thoughtful service. The bubble tea is the star, always fresh with a massive list of flavors that's the biggest I've seen in town. Everything I've had has been great, but my go-to is the honey milk tea with tapioca. Perfection. It's a great place to chill out and work, meet friends, or just grab something to go. Oh, and their banh mi is excellent, which helped get me through the early days of the pandemic, when they opened an outside counter window to keep things going. Highly recommended!
Aldossry
It’s a nice & cutie shop full of joy and happiness. They’re offering breakfast & lunch sandwiches. Besides a variety of super yummy iced & hot beverages & bubble tea. The staff was friendly & welcoming, including their amazing Betta Fish members. Super Stars 🌟🌟🌟 I like the taste of blended matcha, it was well balanced not too much sweet nor bitter. ThnQ!
Linda Ngo
Absolutely love this place and I can never get enough. My favorite is the Lychee Milk Tea! Even though I live in California now every time I visit in Portland, I have to stop here and get me tea because it’s definitely unique and can’t find something like this in California 🧋. Their Taro milk tea is used with coconut milk, absolutely creamy and delicious. We also are crazy for their sandwiches. It’s definitely made with love! The owners are very connected to the local community as well! They post lots of local happening/events in the shop. It’s really nice to be supporting the local business, especially for ones like this that care about their community.
Alexa Corcoran
Found this place after googling “Thai tea” in the area. So many flavors of bubble tea! The Thai tea did not disappoint and the Nutella flavor with boba was amazing. The price for the portion is unbeatable too. Cute small space inside and nice, helpful staff. Definitely recommend! Would love to go back and try the food.
Mirel Reyes
Good boba tea. Most milk teas can be made vegan 👍. Cute vibes and tons of plants inside.
How to reach Fat Straw
None
Website: None
Why Fat Straw may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Fat Straw with your friends? Because it offers a vibrant and welcoming environment designed perfectly for group meetups, whether you're catching up over drinks or indulging in delicious snacks. Fat Straw is more than just a beverage spot; it is a social hub known for its high-quality ingredients and extensive menu that caters to diverse tastes and dietary needs. The quick service combined with friendly staff creates a relaxed atmosphere where you and your friends can enjoy a hassle-free, delightful experience. With an impressive 4.4-star rating based on over 500 reviews, Fat Straw has earned a reputation for consistently delivering tasty drinks like their famous bubble teas, smoothies, and Red Bull cocktails alongside flavorful wraps and comfort food classics. Their commitment to accommodating allergies and dietary preferences means everyone in your group can find something satisfying. This makes Fat Straw highly appealing for groups wanting a casual yet enjoyable spot to hang out in Artesia, NM. The option to earn free drinks with frequent purchases adds to the value, while the inviting setting encourages lively conversation and lasting memories. In short, Fat Straw is where friends come to refresh, reconnect, and revel in great taste and good company.
What kind of activities can you enjoy at Fat Straw? Fat Straw provides an inviting space that caters primarily to socializing over expertly crafted beverages and satisfying food. The core activity is exploring their extensive drink menu, which features an array of bubble teas with chewy boba pearls, blended teas, and smoothies made fresh daily. Whether you want a fruity, refreshing blend or a creamy milk tea, Fat Straw's offerings satisfy with their vibrant flavors. Beyond drinks, the food options—like tasty wraps and comfort food dishes—allow groups to share meals while chatting and relaxing. You can also enjoy simple fun by customizing your beverages, choosing from various flavors, sweetness levels, and toppings, giving your group a personalized experience. For those who appreciate a laid-back vibe, the café’s quick service means you spend less time waiting and more time enjoying friendly company. Plus, their allergy-conscious approach lets participants with dietary restrictions comfortably join in without worry. Fat Straw also provides takeaway and delivery services, ideal if you want to extend your gathering beyond the café or host an at-home meetup. This combination of delicious drinks, food, customization, and considerate service makes it a perfect backdrop for any social occasion.
Why is Fat Straw ideal for group meetups? Fat Straw’s environment and offerings are tailored to foster a communal vibe perfect for groups of all sizes. The spacious layout encourages sitting together comfortably, making conversations easy and uninterrupted. The diversity of the menu means everyone in your group will find something they enjoy, from trendy bubble teas to classic comfort food, which avoids the common problem of limited choices at many meeting spots. Having fast and attentive servers who come directly to your table streamlines the ordering process, allowing the group to stay engaged rather than dispersing to the counter repeatedly. Their loyalty program, where you earn free drinks after a certain number of visits, makes it even more attractive for regular meetups and group rewards. Moreover, Fat Straw’s emphasis on top-quality ingredients ensures an experience that is both indulgent and satisfying without breaking the bank. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, a casual hangout, or a weekend treat, the friendly and vibrant atmosphere makes every visit special and memorable for everyone involved.
What makes the food and drinks at Fat Straw stand out? Fat Straw prides itself on using quality ingredients to create beverages and dishes that are both delicious and visually appealing. Their bubble teas are highly praised; each drink is hand-crafted by expert "Infusionists" who ensure every cup has perfect flavor balance and texture. Beyond classic milk teas, they offer innovative blends like blended strawberry tea, which customers rave about for its fresh, fruity taste. Their smoothies also receive acclaim for being rich and refreshing, setting them apart from typical offerings. On the food side, Fat Straw serves thoughtfully prepared wraps and comfort food classics that complement their drinks, providing a well-rounded meal option during your meetup. The attention to detail extends to accommodating allergies and specific dietary needs, which is not always common in similar establishments but crucial in a group setting. This combination of creativity, quality, and care makes Fat Straw a culinary destination in Artesia for bubble tea enthusiasts and food lovers alike.
How does Fat Straw’s customer service enhance the meetup experience? Customer service at Fat Straw is consistently highlighted as exceptional, contributing significantly to the overall enjoyment of a group outing. Reviewers frequently note the friendly, attentive staff who promptly take and deliver orders at the table, minimizing wait times and allowing conversations to flow naturally without interruption. The team’s willingness to work with allergies or dietary restrictions shows a genuine commitment to customer satisfaction and inclusivity, making every visitor feel valued and cared for. This kind of service turns Fat Straw into more than just a cafe; it becomes a hospitable community space where people feel welcomed. Additionally, the staff’s enthusiasm and knowledge about the menu help newcomers navigate the many drink and food options, enhancing the group’s shared experience. The positive interaction with employees often encourages repeat visits, reinforcing Fat Straw as a reliable and enjoyable venue for friend and family gatherings.
Is Fat Straw convenient for large groups and busy schedules? Yes, Fat Straw offers great flexibility and convenience that suit a variety of group sizes and lifestyle needs. Whether your group wants to drop by casually or plan a longer hangout, the quick service model ensures efficient order preparation so you’re not waiting long in line. The ability to order online and have your food and drinks delivered or ready for quick pickup adds an extra layer of convenience, allowing busy groups to enjoy Fat Straw’s offerings wherever they prefer. This is ideal for office gatherings, impromptu meetups, or even family events at home. Furthermore, the loyalty program rewards frequent visitors, making Fat Straw an attractive recurring spot for groups looking to save money over time. The combination of fast service, customizable menu options, and online ordering ensures that no matter how packed your schedule or large your group, Fat Straw can accommodate you seamlessly.
What makes the ambiance at Fat Straw inviting for social hangouts? The ambiance at Fat Straw is designed to be comfortable, colorful, and conducive to social interaction. The café’s interior is crafted to welcome groups who want to relax, chat, and enjoy quality food and drinks in an upbeat but casual setting. Bright, appealing décor and a clean environment create a cheerful atmosphere that complements the vibrant menu. This welcoming vibe encourages patrons to linger, making it easier to spend quality time with friends and family without feeling rushed. Whether it’s a sunny afternoon or a cool evening, Fat Straw’s setting invites groups to gather, celebrate, or simply unwind together in a friendly neighborhood spot. The ambiance hits the perfect balance between energetic and laid back, making it a versatile venue for a wide range of social occasions.
Why do so many customers recommend Fat Straw? Consistent positive reviews highlight why Fat Straw is a top recommendation for anyone looking to host a meetup with friends or family. Customers frequently praise the excellent drink quality, especially the bubble teas and smoothies that stand out in a crowded market. The friendly and accommodating customer service creates an enjoyable experience every time, with many noting that staff go above and beyond to ensure satisfaction. Reviewers also appreciate the inclusive menu options that cater to allergies and dietary needs, making it a safe choice for diverse groups. Moreover, the attractive prices for quality products and the convenience of loyalty rewards make Fat Straw not only a delicious but also a smart choice. This strong combination of taste, service, atmosphere, and value continually brings people back and earns passionate word-of-mouth recommendations, reinforcing Fat Straw as a go-to destination for group gatherings.
In summary, Fat Straw is a fantastic venue for connecting with friends and family thanks to its exceptional drink and food selection, welcoming atmosphere, attentive service, and flexible convenience features. Its high ratings and glowing customer feedback confirm it as a destination that consistently delivers memorable and enjoyable meetups. Whether you crave expertly made bubble teas, crave tasty wraps, or simply want a laid-back space to share moments, Fat Straw offers everything you need and more. The next time you plan a group outing in Artesia, NM, rally at Fat Straw and experience firsthand why it is beloved by locals and visitors alike.