When asking yourself about something to do near me in New York with a group of friends or family, consider
Ho Ho Té
Why Ho Ho Té is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Ho Ho Té is a cozy and inviting tea shop located in the heart of Midtown Manhattan, New York City, at 805 8th Ave. This spot offers a specialty bubble tea experience alongside a curated selection of snacks, making it a wonderful place to meet up with friends. Its warm and casual atmosphere suits both tourists stumbling in and locals looking for a quick, flavorful treat or refreshing tea drink. One of the highlights of Ho Ho Té is its focus on taro-infused items, including desserts and drinks, which appeals to fans of this unique flavor. The shop’s bubble teas are the primary attraction, providing a vast assortment of premium tea options from around the world, delighting tea lovers with varied tastes and textures. The friendly service and convenient location in Hell's Kitchen contribute to its popularity as a casual hangout spot or a refreshing pause during a busy day in the city. Whether you're craving a smooth, creamy bubble tea, light snacks like flaky taro puffs, or simply a cozy nook to catch up with friends, Ho Ho Té offers a modest yet satisfying experience in a bustling urban environment.
Here's what people think of Ho Ho Té
As of recent, Ho Ho Té holds a 4.1-star rating based on 271 reviews.
Reviews of Ho Ho Té reflect a mix of positive and critical opinions, culminating in an overall rating of 4.1 out of 5 from 271 reviews. Many positive reviews highlight the shop's enjoyment of its bubble tea selection, with customers appreciating the quality of tea and the variety of flavors available, particularly its taro-based offerings. The convenience of location in Midtown Manhattan and the cozy atmosphere also contribute to favorable impressions. Some visitors find it a great place to relax or grab a quick drink and treat while exploring the city. On the other hand, some negative feedback centers around the quality and freshness of certain snacks. For example, one noted critique mentioned the taro puffs being mediocre with texture and temperature issues; the pastry was not as flaky or fresh as expected, slightly dampening the snack experience. The lack of a website and limited presence online sometimes causes uncertainty about menu options and operating hours. Despite these critiques, customers generally still appreciate the friendly service and the enjoyable variety of bubble tea offerings. In conclusion, Ho Ho Té remains a worthwhile stop for bubble tea enthusiasts looking for a cozy setting in Manhattan, though potential visitors may want to temper expectations slightly on some snack items.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Ebayed Ullah Chowdhury
This is a nice little spot with seating off of Times Square. We got the oolong milk tea with 50% sugar. The taste was pretty good, but not wow good. The drink can with a cardboard straw that actually stabbed through the plastic lid!
Caroline Chuang
Midtown doesn’t have many bubble tea shops, so this is a convenient spot for anyone in the area craving bubble tea. However, I found their tea to be a bit underwhelming—the tea flavor was too weak for my liking, and the balance of flavors in the milk tea didn’t quite hit the mark for me. On the other hand, their food offerings really stood out! The popcorn chicken was fantastic—crispy, well-seasoned, and full of flavor. It’s definitely worth stopping by for the snacks, even if the drinks didn’t impress me as much.
Cain
The takoyaki is definitely fresh and comes with all the fixin’s. My girlfriend ordered a pork rice bowl which seemed like a good deal, but I’m a simple man. I see takoyaki, I order.
Mtucker
Went here to try the dog on a stick. It's definitely a different spin on it. They had cheese on a stick covered with your choice of sweet potatoe or regular potato or breading. I had the cheese on a stick with sweet potato and the braise pork on white rice. They were delicious. The braise pork was flavored just right. I would say give this place a shot.
L E
I only tried a Boba tea drink this time but definitely wanted to try more items. They offered a lot of Boba drinks & its always tough trying to choose. I opted for a green tea and fruit drink with lychee and Boba. It was very refreshing. Only thing I can complain about is that the employees are not very welcoming but thats just a note!
How to reach Ho Ho Té
None
Website: None
Why Ho Ho Té may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Ho Ho Té with your friends?
Ho Ho Té is an inviting bubble tea and snack spot situated in the heart of Midtown West, New York City, near the vibrant Times Square area. This location makes it an excellent gathering place for friends or family looking to enjoy casual dining and drinks in a convenient, lively atmosphere. With a solid rating of around 4.1 from over 270 reviews, Ho Ho Té offers a dependable and enjoyable experience for a wide range of visitors. The business has a reputation for friendly service and a variety of tasty, affordable options — from bubble tea with customizable sweetness levels to light bites like Korean hot dogs and taro puffs. Its proximity to popular landmarks means it easily fits into a day out with friends. Whether you’re looking to grab refreshing drinks, try unique Asian-inspired snacks, or just hang out in a cozy spot that supports group orders and delivery, Ho Ho Té meets those needs. The affordability and group-friendly nature of the place, combined with the energetic Midtown buzz, create an ideal setting to catch up and savor casual culinary treats together.
What kind of activities can you enjoy at Ho Ho Té for a group meetup?
Ho Ho Té specializes in bubble tea and Asian-inspired snacks, making it a perfect spot for groups who want a relaxed yet engaging outing. The primary activity here revolves around ordering and sharing a variety of specialty drinks like classic milk teas, fruit slushies, and customizable bubble teas. The menu allows for personalized drink sweetness and toppings such as tapioca pearls or jelly, encouraging interactive choices among friends. Beyond the drinks, small bites such as Korean hot dogs and taro puffs provide satisfying munchies that complement the beverages and are perfect for sharing. The presence of seating near Times Square means groups can enjoy the lively city vibe while chatting and sipping their drinks. In addition to on-site gatherings, Ho Ho Té supports group orders for takeout or delivery, offering convenient options for meetups at home or in the office. This flexibility enhances the experience by catering to both casual in-person hangouts and virtual or remote celebrations.
Why is Ho Ho Té especially suited for group visits or meetups?
Ho Ho Té’s appeal for groups lies in its combination of affordability, variety, and convenience. Pricing is budget-friendly, allowing everyone in the group to enjoy something without concern for expensive tabs. The menu’s diversity — ranging from classic and fruit teas to savory snacks — caters to different palates, helping ensure all group members find something they like. The option to customize drinks’ sweetness and toppings adds a fun, interactive element to the visit, which can make ordering a group activity in itself. The location in Midtown Manhattan is easily accessible and surrounded by other attractions, which means meetups can extend beyond just Ho Ho Té, blending dining with exploration. Furthermore, the friendly and helpful staff contribute to an inviting atmosphere conducive to socializing. For those who prefer to gather elsewhere, Ho Ho Té’s strong presence on delivery platforms with group-order features makes it straightforward to bring their flavors into any social setting.
What can you expect from the food and drink menu at Ho Ho Té?
The Ho Ho Té menu is centered on bubble tea but extends to a selection of Asian-inspired snacks that complement the drinks well. Signature beverages include oolong milk tea and fruit slushies like strawberry, all with customizable sweetness options to suit each customer’s preference. The drinks are praised for their refreshing quality, with some reviewers noting the use of environmentally friendly paper straws that puncture easily, enhancing convenience. On the snack side, Korean hot dogs are a popular savory choice, offering a juicy and satisfying bite with fresh lettuce that adds crunch. Taro puffs provide a sweet treat option filled with creamy taro paste, though some customers have found the pastry less flaky than expected, indicating variability in freshness. Overall, the offerings combine traditional Asian flavors with contemporary twists and approachable pricing, making the menu a good match for casual social gatherings.
How does the location enhance the experience of meeting at Ho Ho Té?
Located at 805 8th Avenue in the Hell’s Kitchen neighborhood of Manhattan, Ho Ho Té benefits from being in a dynamic, bustling area. Its proximity to Times Square means visitors can easily plan a full day of activities — from sightseeing and shopping to attending nearby theaters or simply exploring the vibrant streets — before or after enjoying their refreshments at Ho Ho Té. The urban setting lends itself to a lively meetup where friends can feel energized by the surrounding city buzz. The store’s midtown location also means it is accessible via subway and other public transportation, making it a convenient rendezvous point for people coming from different parts of the city. Seating in a cozy interior space caters well to groups who want a calm break amid the busy neighborhood, combining the best of urban energy and comfortable socializing.
What do reviews reveal about the strengths and weaknesses of Ho Ho Té?
Reviews for Ho Ho Té highlight several strengths that make it attractive for group meetups, including friendly staff, good value for money, and tasty beverages like the strawberry slushie and oolong milk tea with customizable sweetness. The environment and service contribute positively to the overall impression. However, some critiques note inconsistency in the quality and freshness of snacks such as the taro puffs, with occasional disappointment over texture and presentation. While the drinks generally receive praise, they may not impress those seeking the highest-tier bubble tea experience. Despite these minor drawbacks, the overall rating around 4.1 suggests that most customers find the experience satisfying and well-suited for casual social outings. The combination of good drinks, approachable prices, and its group-friendly approach outweighs occasional quality dips, solidifying Ho Ho Té as a solid communal spot.
How can Ho Ho Té accommodate different group sizes and preferences?
Ho Ho Té caters flexibly to various group sizes and preferences through its menu and ordering options. Individual orders of bubble tea and snacks allow friends or family members to choose precisely what they like while sharing small bites encourages communal dining. The ability to modify drink sweetness and toppings means everyone can tailor their beverage to personal tastes, enhancing satisfaction. For larger groups or gatherings where meeting in person might not be feasible, Ho Ho Té’s strong presence on delivery apps with group ordering and no additional fees facilitates easy sharing of their offerings anywhere. The store’s modest but cozy seating area comfortably fits small to medium-sized groups, ideal for casual hangouts or quick catch-ups. This adaptability ensures Ho Ho Té serves as a welcoming venue, whether for intimate friend circles or broader meetups.
What makes the social atmosphere at Ho Ho Té inviting?
Ho Ho Té’s social atmosphere is defined by its friendly staff and casual, cozy environment in a vibrant Midtown setting. The staff are noted for their amiability, helping visitors feel welcomed and allowing groups to relax and enjoy their time without pressure. The space offers a comfortable nook away from the rush of the city streets, providing a calm atmosphere ideal for conversation and connection. The shared enjoyment of unique drinks and snacks creates a common experience that fosters social bonding. Additionally, the venue’s location near popular New York attractions adds an element of excitement and accessibility, drawing diverse groups ranging from tourists to locals who appreciate a casual yet lively spot to meet. Whether ordering in or dining in, the overall vibe encourages lingering and making memories with friends or family.
How do delivery options enhance Ho Ho Té’s appeal for group events?
Ho Ho Té’s integration with major delivery platforms significantly boosts its appeal for group events, especially in a city where convenience is paramount. Many customers highlight the ease of ordering bubble tea and snacks as add-ons when ordering other cuisine, allowing groups to broaden their dining experience seamlessly. Delivery options with no additional fees for first-time customers and streamlined group ordering features make it easy to coordinate meals without the hassle of multiple transactions. This convenience is ideal for remote gatherings, office parties, or simply enjoying Ho Ho Té’s offerings in a comfortable home setting. As a result, delivery extends Ho Ho Té’s reach beyond its physical Midtown location, making it accessible and convenient for a variety of social occasions.
What cultural and culinary experiences does Ho Ho Té offer to groups?
Ho Ho Té brings an authentic yet accessible slice of Asian culinary culture to New York City’s vibrant food scene. By focusing on bubble tea — a globally beloved Taiwanese-origin drink — and snacks like Korean hot dogs and taro puffs, the venue offers a fusion of Asian flavors that appeal to adventurous food lovers and casual customers alike. For groups, this diversity enhances the social experience by introducing new tastes and textures that encourage sharing and conversation. Exploring customizable drinks and trying different snack options makes visits interactive and memorable. Ho Ho Té thus serves both as a cultural hub and a food adventure stop, enriching group meetups with flavor variety and cultural nuance while remaining casual and welcoming.