When asking yourself about something to do near me in Seattle with a group of friends or family, consider
Hi Tea Cafe
Why Hi Tea Cafe is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Hi Tea Cafe in Seattle is an inviting spot ideal for meeting up with friends or enjoying a quiet moment. This cafe specializes in a delightful range of coffee, iced teas, bubble teas (bobas), smoothies, and snacks, catering to diverse tastes. Offering several plant-based milk options including oat, almond, coconut, and soy, it thoughtfully accommodates dietary preferences and vegan lifestyles. The cafe’s comfortable outdoor seating and wheelchair accessibility add to its welcoming ambiance, making it convenient and comfortable for all visitors. Open from noon to 7 PM six days a week, Hi Tea Cafe provides a relaxed atmosphere during afternoon and early evening hours. The menu features a variety of tea flavors such as matcha, which has been highlighted positively by patrons. Its location in the vibrant Broadway East neighborhood adds to its charm as a casual, friendly community spot. Whether you are craving a refreshing iced boba tea or a comforting hot coffee, Hi Tea Cafe presents a great setting to catch up with friends, work on a laptop, or enjoy a tasty snack in good company.
Here's what people think of Hi Tea Cafe
As of recent, Hi Tea Cafe holds a 4.5-star rating based on 216 reviews.
Customer reviews praise Hi Tea Cafe for its variety of tasty drinks, especially the bubble teas and matcha offerings. Many highlight the availability of plant-based milks, accommodating various dietary needs, which is seen as a significant plus. The outdoor seating and relaxed vibe enhance the overall experience, making it a comfortable place for socializing or a casual outing. Positive feedback focuses on the quality and flavor of the drinks, as well as the friendly service and inclusive atmosphere. However, some negative reviews mention occasional issues like running out of certain milk options (e.g., soy milk), or drinks being a little sweeter than preferred when no added sugar is requested. Despite these minor concerns, most customers express a desire to return and try more menu items, reflecting overall satisfaction. In conclusion, Hi Tea Cafe maintains a strong reputation with a 4.5-star rating from over 200 reviews, illustrating its success as a beloved local bubble tea and tea spot that caters well to its community.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Justine Lee
🧋 This is a pretty average milk tea place. The prices are typical and the tea quality was average. 🍵 It’s definitely not the authentic bubble tea experience. The tea was not high quality and the flavors tasted somewhat artificial. 💲 Given the lower price compared to other places, it was acceptable for me. However, my friend ordered the pure green tea, which was very watery. - Overall, I would give it an average rating, given that bubble tea was not the best, but the staff were friendly and the environment was bright and pleasant.
Barbara Carretero
Some of the best boba my sisters and I have had we love clear teas and this place had a good variety.
Lily
One of the cheaper bobas in the area. You can order at the counter or with the kiosk. There is some seating. The place looks modern and clean. There is cute quote on the wall. I thought the service was a bit slow. I would come back if I am in the area.
Zoe M
I feel the quality of this place varies wildly. Sometimes the drink is made perfectly and there is a hearty scoop of boba added. Other times, the drink has minimal boba and is too sweet or not sweet enough. There is a large menu, which is nice. And there is also a frequent buyer stamp card. But there is better quality bubble tea on the hill and I believe this one survives due to the convenience of its location. Keep in mind it's closed one day a week and the bathroom is usually not available, keeping for customers.
Chef Viresh More
Hi Tea Café is my daily go-to for bubble tea. can’t stay away! Their boba is always fresh, perfectly chewy, and the drinks are packed with flavor. Easily the top spot in town for bubble tea lovers
How to reach Hi Tea Cafe
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Website: None
Why Hi Tea Cafe may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Hi Tea Cafe with your friends?
Gathering at Hi Tea Cafe offers an ideal setting to reconnect with friends or family in a warm, inviting atmosphere that celebrates authentic Hong Kong-style cuisine. This cafe boasts a strong reputation, reflected in its impressive 4.5-star rating from over 200 reviews, signaling consistent quality and customer satisfaction. The moment you step inside, you’re greeted with a cozy ambiance that balances casual comfort with a cultural flair, making it an excellent backdrop for meaningful conversations and shared experiences. Whether you’re looking for a relaxed breakfast, a leisurely lunch, or an evening meal, Hi Tea Cafe caters to diverse cravings with its rich Cantonese menu and specialty teas. Beyond just food, the cafe invites groups to embrace the communal dining style inherent in Hong Kong’s social culture, where dishes are meant to be shared, sparking lively interaction and creating a true sense of togetherness. This combination of excellent food, authentic environment, and friendly service makes Hi Tea Cafe a go-to destination for group meetups, where moments turn into cherished memories.
What activities can you enjoy at Hi Tea Cafe, and why is it perfect for a group meetup?
Hi Tea Cafe offers a variety of activities that enhance the group dining experience, ensuring everyone feels engaged and satisfied. The primary attraction is its diverse menu featuring breakfast combos, Cantonese classics, and Hong Kong-style milk teas that allow groups to sample and share different flavors together. This shared tasting experience not only satisfies varied palates but also encourages interaction as friends discuss and recommend dishes. Additionally, the cafe’s relaxed setting is perfect for casual conversations or even celebrating special occasions, as the staff is known for their attentive and friendly service. Another great feature for groups is the affordable pricing, such as combo meals with drinks at minimal additional costs, which helps larger parties enjoy a satisfying meal without stress. The cozy seating arrangements also cater well to different group sizes, allowing for intimate gatherings or larger meetups without feeling rushed or crowded. All these factors contribute to making Hi Tea Cafe an exceptional venue where groups can bond over excellent food and lively company.
How does Hi Tea Cafe’s menu cater to different tastes in a group?
One of the standout reasons to choose Hi Tea Cafe for group gatherings is its expansive, authentic menu that appeals broadly, ensuring everyone finds something they love. The menu ranges from hearty breakfast combos like Chicken Congee paired with Chow Mein noodles to fresh, fluffy Bao buns that can be taken to-go or savored on-site. Each dish is prepared with traditional Cantonese techniques, imparting genuine flavors reminiscent of Hong Kong street food favorites. This authenticity delights those familiar with Hong Kong cuisine and offers newcomers a genuine taste adventure. Drinks, especially the iconic Hong Kong-style milk tea, complement the meals perfectly and can be added at very economical prices, enhancing the overall experience without inflating the bill. For groups with diverse dietary preferences, the menu’s variety includes vegetarian-friendly options and comfort foods that cater to all appetites, making it effortless to please a crowd. This flexibility, combined with quality and affordability, ensures everyone at the table is satisfied and eager to return.
What kind of atmosphere does Hi Tea Cafe provide for socializing?
Hi Tea Cafe’s atmosphere is a perfect blend of casual comfort and cultural authenticity, creating a space where groups feel right at home. The decor and layout evoke the vibrant, bustling spirit of Hong Kong’s local eateries without overwhelming diners, fostering cozy intimacy and easy conversation. The lighting is generally warm and inviting, setting a relaxed tone ideal for leisurely chats over shared plates and steaming cups of tea. Background sounds usually include quiet restaurant bustle and soft music, which enhances the vibe without drowning out conversation. The friendly and attentive staff contribute significantly to the welcoming environment by making guests feel valued and ensuring their needs are met promptly. Moreover, the cafe’s reputation for consistent quality and thoughtful service builds a trust that this is a reliable spot to plan recurring meetups. This wholesome, sociable atmosphere makes Hi Tea Cafe more than just a place to eat—it becomes a community hub for connection and enjoyment.
How does Hi Tea Cafe accommodate different group sizes and preferences?
Hi Tea Cafe is thoughtfully designed to comfortably host a wide range of group sizes, whether just a small circle of friends or a larger family gathering. The seating configurations are versatile, with tables that can be rearranged or combined to accommodate diverse party sizes without compromising personal space. This flexibility allows groups to settle in together comfortably, promoting a cohesive social experience. For particularly large groups, advance reservations can help secure space and ensure smooth service, minimizing wait times and optimizing the overall experience. Furthermore, the menu’s pricing and portioning cater well to sharing, allowing groups to order multiple dishes that can be sampled family-style, aligning with traditional Cantonese dining customs. The location within Oakland Gardens also ensures accessibility for local residents and others in neighboring communities, making it convenient for everyone involved. By providing attentive customer care, accommodating layouts, and a carefully curated menu, Hi Tea Cafe positions itself as an excellent venue tailored to meet the diverse needs and preferences of any group meetup.
What makes Hi Tea Cafe’s food and drink options unique and memorable?
Hi Tea Cafe’s culinary offerings stand out for their dedication to authenticity, freshness, and flavor depth, bringing a genuine taste of Hong Kong’s street food and cafe culture to the local community. Their signature Hong Kong-style milk tea, served hot or iced, is a particular highlight due to its smooth texture and balanced sweetness, crafted using traditional brewing methods. This beverage often becomes a conversation starter and crowd favorite, elevating the entire dining experience. The food menu complements these drinks with signature items like fresh, steamed bao stuffed with various savory fillings, comforting porridge (congee), and classic noodle dishes. What truly makes these options memorable is the combination of time-honored recipes and affordable prices, enabling guests to enjoy premium quality without feeling extravagant—a rare find in many contemporary cafes. The attention to detail in each dish, from texture to seasoning, prompts repeat visits and enthusiastic recommendations. When friends share these distinctive tastes, the collective enjoyment becomes a bonding ritual unique to Hi Tea Cafe.
Why do customer reviews support hosting meetups at Hi Tea Cafe?
The overwhelmingly positive customer reviews of Hi Tea Cafe reflect its consistent ability to meet and exceed expectations for group gatherings. With a robust rating of 4.5 stars from over 200 reviews, guests commend the cafe for its friendly service, delicious authentic food, and fair pricing, all crucial factors in a successful meetup. Reviewers often emphasize the welcoming atmosphere, noting how conducive it is to relaxed conversations and socializing. Many highlight the generous portion sizes and variety as perfect for sharing among friends, adding a layer of communal enjoyment that modern dining spaces sometimes lack. The affordability of drinks, particularly the Hong Kong-style milk tea, is frequently praised as a delightful bonus that enriches the overall visit. These firsthand accounts reinforce the idea that Hi Tea Cafe is not just a place to grab a quick bite but a trusted gathering spot where friends and family can create enjoyable, lasting memories together in a culturally vibrant environment. This social proof makes it a compelling choice for anyone looking to host casual or celebratory meetups.
How does Hi Tea Cafe compare to other tea cafes in the area?
Compared to other tea cafes in the vicinity, Hi Tea Cafe distinguishes itself through its authentic Hong Kong-style offerings and the depth of its Cantonese cuisine. While many competitors may focus solely on general tea service or light snacks, Hi Tea Cafe provides a more comprehensive dining experience anchored by savory dishes, hearty breakfast combos, and specialty teas that are crafted in the traditional Hong Kong manner. This authenticity is often highlighted in customer reviews where patrons express that the cafe’s flavors surpass expectations, with some saying it rivals actual Hong Kong eateries—offering a unique cultural escape without traveling far. The pricing strategy further sets it apart, especially with options like adding a traditional milk tea for just a quarter, which adds excellent value. In terms of ambiance, Hi Tea Cafe balances liveliness and comfort, unlike some tea rooms that may cater more to quiet, solo visitors or formal afternoon teas. This dynamic makes Hi Tea Cafe especially suitable for groups seeking a vibrant, social venue with genuine, satisfying food and drink options.
What makes Hi Tea Cafe an ideal choice for celebrations and special occasions?
Hi Tea Cafe’s blend of authentic cuisine, welcoming atmosphere, and flexible seating arrangements make it a superb choice for celebrating special moments with friends and family. Unlike conventional banquet halls or formal restaurants, it offers a relaxed atmosphere that encourages open socializing and laughter, perfect for birthdays, reunions, or casual celebrations. The diverse menu caters to numerous tastes, ensuring each guest finds something indulgent to savor, while the signature milk teas and fresh bao bring a fun twist to traditional party fare. Staff attentiveness and the option to arrange tables for larger groups provide the convenience and comfort needed for smooth event flow. Additionally, the cafe’s positive reputation and proven capability to handle groups reduce the stress of event planning, allowing hosts to focus on enjoying the occasion. By choosing Hi Tea Cafe, celebrants gain an authentic dining experience paired with a social setting designed to make every gathering feel special and memorable.