When asking yourself about something to do near me in Boulder with a group of friends or family, consider
Lollicup Boulder
Why Lollicup Boulder is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Lollicup Boulder is a popular bubble tea shop located near the University of Colorado Boulder campus, specifically on the Hill area, making it a convenient and inviting spot for college students and locals to gather with friends. Founded by Chinese entrepreneurs Alan Yu and Marvin Cheng in 2000, Lollicup was among the first to bring the Taiwanese bubble tea experience to the United States. The Boulder location continues that legacy by offering a wide variety of boba tea flavors such as mango, peach, strawberry, and taro, alongside other refreshing drink options. The store’s cozy atmosphere combined with quick and friendly service creates the perfect environment for socializing, studying, or simply enjoying a flavorful treat. In addition to its proximity to campus and affordability—which is especially beneficial for college students—Lollicup Boulder is celebrated for its consistent quality and inventive drink menu. This combination of factors makes it a great meet-up spot for groups looking to enjoy a flavorful and budget-friendly beverage in a welcoming setting.
Here's what people think of Lollicup Boulder
As of recent, Lollicup Boulder holds a 4.3-star rating based on 258 reviews.
Customer reviews of Lollicup Boulder are generally positive, reflecting a 4.3-star rating based on around 258 reviews. Reviewers frequently praise the extensive selection of bubble tea flavors available, highlighting favorites such as mango, peach, strawberry, and taro boba drinks. Many customers appreciate the quick, friendly service and the fact that there is rarely a long wait despite the frequent lines, indicating efficiency during busy periods. The reasonable pricing is a common theme among positive feedback, especially since the shop is near a college campus and manages to keep deals accessible without inflating prices. Some customers note the cozy and charming ambiance of the shop, which adds to the overall inviting experience. On the other hand, negative reviews sometimes mention variability in consistency or occasional wait times during rush hours. Some customers feel that seating can be limited, and a few critiques reference that certain flavors might not meet expectations depending on personal taste. Despite these minor drawbacks, the overall consensus is favorable, with many patrons happily returning to enjoy their favorite drinks. In conclusion, Lollicup Boulder is viewed as a reliable and enjoyable boba tea destination, offering great flavors, good value, and a comfortable atmosphere suitable for both casual visits and social gatherings.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Jordan Shawcroft
This place is fantastic! The staff is incredibly kind and patient, never rushing you to order and always ready to help. The drinks are delicious—I had a milk tea with boba, lavender foam, and brown sugar drizzle, as well as a taro milk tea with boba, pistachio foam, and brown sugar drizzle. The interior is charming, and the bathrooms were spotless. Highly recommend!
Evelin Kovacs
This place has the most AMAZING boba I’ve ever had in my life. I’ve had all the chains, Kung Fu, etc. but this place is spectacular. It changed my life. We did wait though 45 minutes on a Saturday night. I’m not sure what happened, understaffed or if just one person works here on a daily basis. Hopefully will be quicker in the future otherwise I might have to just call in my order to avoid the wait.
Dallas M
I've been hearing about this place from my daughter since the beginning of 2024 because she enjoyed (and still enjoys) coming here during the school year. Recently, on 24 and 26 Aug 2024, I had the opportunity to try this boba shop with my daughter since I was in the area to help her move into her dorm. When we walked in on both days, the shop wasn't busy at all which enabled me to take some time and look at the menus. The service was a little slow on both days which was a little alarming considering the customers in the facility were minimal. To be fair, the business doesn't seem to have that many employees working there to begin with because on the 24 Aug visit, there were two employees up front, and one of them was new. Also, on the 26 Aug visit, there was only one employee working up front (cashier and food/drink preparer). On the other hand, the employees are very friendly which is always pivotal from a customer service standpoint. For both visits, we ordered the Peach Green Tea w/Boba, Lychee Black Tea w/Boba, Chicken Potstickers, and Rice Cake Skewers. The drinks were outstanding, hands-down! The boba flavor and texture was amazing and perfect. I've had a lot of various style potstickers, gyoza, mandu, dumplings in my lifetime and I can't say that the ones here rank in the top 10 of my all-time favorites. However, the potstickers were still good and definitely hit the spot (especially since we were hungry). The prices here are reasonable - I was glad to see that this business doesn't increase their prices to prey on college students. Then again, there's always that perception that college students don't have money and only live off of ramen and Hot Pockets...so maybe that's why the prices at this shop are respectable? The décor was nice but the atmosphere wasn't necessarily inviting - it felt gloomy in there for some reason. Also, I hope the business fixes the entrance door because due to oblivious customers, the door would either shut hard, or stay open after someone leaves the shop (I guess people think that all business doors are self-closing). Overall, I like this boba shop; one star shy of actually "loving" this business. I know for a fact that my daughter will continually visit this boba shop so I hope this business stays open for the long run. Highly recommend this business to everyone!
Hannah Muralla-Palustre
Great place to grab some lunch on the hill. Got the passionfruit green tea at 50% sweetness and it was perfect! I could tell the boba was freshly cooked. There was a short wait for the popcorn chicken but I didn’t mind because this cutie dog at the store kept me company.
Hiyumi Wijesekara
I always love coming to this boba spot with my friends! The drinks are great, and the atmosphere is always so welcoming. Today, the person working was especially wonderful—they were so joyful to talk to and incredibly accommodating. Their kindness made the experience even better. Can’t wait to come back!
How to reach Lollicup Boulder
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Website: None
Why Lollicup Boulder may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Lollicup Boulder with your friends? Lollicup Boulder is much more than just a bubble tea shop—it offers a vibrant, casual, and welcoming atmosphere perfect for social gatherings. Located in the heart of Boulder’s lively University Hill area, this café is easily accessible and surrounded by various shops and eateries, making it an ideal meetup spot for friends or family. Whether you're catching up after a long day or celebrating a special occasion, Lollicup provides a cozy space to enjoy high-quality Taiwanese bubble teas and delicious snacks that cater to diverse tastes. The friendly staff and upbeat environment make everyone feel at home, encouraging relaxation and long, enjoyable conversations. The combination of unique drinks, tasty food options, and the bustling hood gives you an authentic local experience that makes connecting with your friends even more fun and memorable.
What activities can you do at Lollicup Boulder, and why is it perfect for group meetups? First, Lollicup Boulder is renowned for its wide selection of bubble teas—each cup can be customized with different flavors, sweetness levels, and toppings like chewy tapioca pearls or fruit jellies. This provides a fun and interactive element for group gatherings, as everyone can pick their personal favorite. Beyond drinks, the café also offers savory snacks such as fried popcorn chicken, which is perfect for sharing while chatting with your friends. The seating layout is designed to accommodate small groups comfortably, encouraging socializing without feeling crowded. Additionally, the café is open late, from 10 AM to 10 PM, which means you can meet whether it’s a midday break or an evening hangout. Its relaxed vibe and affordable menu make it an inviting place for all kinds of get-togethers, from casual coffee breaks to pre-event meetups.
What makes the Lollicup Boulder environment conducive to hosting a meetup? The interior of Lollicup Boulder combines modern aesthetics with a cozy, youthful vibe that appeals to a broad demographic—from college students to families. The clean and bright space features tables arranged to suit different group sizes, enabling flexibility for gatherings of varying numbers. The café’s location on 13th Street places it in a bustling neighborhood rich with energy, which adds to the experience. This bustling locale means that after enjoying your drinks and snacks, your group can easily explore adjacent businesses, making a meetup at Lollicup just the start of an exciting outing. Importantly, the staff are known to be courteous and attentive, which elevates the comfort level and reduces stress around ordering and logistics. These factors combine to create a welcoming and dynamic environment that encourages extended social interaction.
How accessible and convenient is Lollicup Boulder for groups? Situated in downtown Boulder, Lollicup is highly accessible by various transportation methods, including walking, public transit, and car. The central location means there is ample parking nearby as well as easy walkability for neighbors and tourists alike. Operating seven days a week with long hours from 10 AM to 10 PM means your group can pick a time that best fits everyone’s schedule. Whether your friends are free for a quick afternoon treat or a relaxed evening meetup, Lollicup’s flexibility accommodates both. Additionally, the option for takeout or dine-in caters to groups looking for either a sit-down experience or a casual grab-and-go drink to enjoy elsewhere. This convenience is a strong factor for groups with diverse availability or preferences, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free planning process.
Are there additional reasons to choose Lollicup Boulder for your social gatherings? Besides the great drinks and foods, one of the biggest draws is the cultural authenticity Lollicup Boulder brings to the community. Offering traditional Taiwanese bubble tea and snacks provides a unique taste experience that can be a fun new discovery for your group. This authentic touch enriches your meetup beyond the usual coffee or tea stop. Furthermore, the reasonably priced menu means you can enjoy quality offerings without overspending—an attractive factor for students or budget-conscious groups. The café is also family-friendly, so meetups can include kids, making it versatile for different social circles. Plus, its position near other popular eateries and shops means you can easily combine your Lollicup meetup with additional plans like dining, shopping, or entertainment, making it a convenient one-stop hub for group events.
How does the local neighborhood enhance the Lollicup Boulder meetup experience? Situated on University Hill, Lollicup Boulder benefits enormously from being in a lively part of Boulder known for its eclectic mix of shops, restaurants, and nightlife. This means that after your meetup, your group has immediate access to a range of complementary activities like browsing local boutiques, trying other dining options nearby, or simply enjoying a casual stroll around a vibrant, youthful neighborhood. The energetic locale fosters a dynamic social vibe that naturally boosts meetups, as the surroundings have plenty to offer beyond just the café itself. It’s also near academic and cultural institutions, attracting a diverse crowd that adds to the inclusive, welcoming atmosphere. These neighborhood amenities make Lollicup not just a bubble tea stop but a gateway to a full social experience, perfect for making your gathering more memorable and multifaceted.
What makes Lollicup Boulder stand out compared to other boba tea spots? Lollicup Boulder shines because of its commitment to authentic Taiwanese bubble tea recipes combined with a friendly, neighborhood café feel. Many patrons highlight the quality and freshness of ingredients, which translates into consistently delicious drinks and snacks that keep customers coming back. The variety ensures that everyone in your group, no matter their taste preferences, can find something enjoyable, from classic milk teas to fruity concoctions and trendy new flavors. Additionally, the café embraces the local Boulder culture by being a chill, approachable hangout spot rather than just a quick service stop. This dedication to quality, authenticity, and community connection makes it a preferred choice for regulars and newcomers alike who want more than just a drink—they want an inviting ambiance and social hotspot for their gatherings.
Why is the customer experience at Lollicup Boulder ideal for a fun group outing? The service at Lollicup Boulder is known to be welcoming and efficient, which is key when coordinating with a group. Friendly staff help make ordering easy, especially with customizable menus that might otherwise slow things down. The ambiance encourages lingering, so your group doesn’t feel rushed to leave once the drinks arrive—instead, it promotes a relaxed pace conducive to conversations and laughs. The café also offers clean restrooms and a safe environment, assuring that all guests, including families, feel comfortable and valued during their time there. Combined with convenient operating hours and a central location, the overall customer experience hits the mark for groups looking to enjoy quality time together without logistical headaches, making your outing smooth, enjoyable, and stress-free.
What can groups expect in terms of food and drink variety at Lollicup Boulder? For groups, Lollicup Boulder offers a diverse menu that extends beyond bubble tea to include snacks that complement the drinks perfectly. You’ll find a range of tea bases like black, green, and oolong, as well as customizable sweetness and ice levels to suit individual tastes. Popular toppings such as Boba pearls, aloe vera, and pudding add texture and fun to each drink. On the food side, signature items like fried popcorn chicken provide a delicious, shareable option that is flavorful and satisfying. This combination of drink and snack variety accommodates different cravings in your group and adds a shared tasting experience that helps bond everyone over new flavors and textures. The variety means that whether your group is more drink-focused or hungry for snacks, everyone will find something enjoyable.
How does Lollicup Boulder support extended meetups and celebrations? The café’s opening hours stretching to 10 PM provide flexibility for evening meetups that extend long after typical lunchtime hangouts. This is ideal for celebrations, casual parties, or simply lingering with friends into the night without rushing. The comfortable seating and laid-back atmosphere encourage staying longer, making it a great locale for unhurried conversations, group games, or sharing plans for future events. Even groups looking to mix meeting with work or study will appreciate the relaxed mood. While Lollicup doesn’t have formal event spaces, the friendly environment and accommodating staff create a welcoming backdrop for informal celebrations or recurring social meetups.
How can the location of Lollicup Boulder be leveraged for broader group activities? Lollicup Boulder’s prime location means your meetup can easily transition into a day or night out in Boulder. After enjoying beverages and snacks, groups can explore nearby entertainment venues, parks, or shopping areas to extend their time together. Its placement on 13th Street offers proximity to University of Colorado Boulder and many local cultural hotspots such as The Lab Bar & Bites or The Sink, expanding options for dining, live music, or casual walks. The local transit connections and walkability make planning group activities simpler and more inclusive for people coming from different parts of the city. By starting at Lollicup, your group sets a comfortable, social tone that makes subsequent activities feel seamless and connected.
In summary, Lollicup Boulder is an exceptional choice for hosting meetups with friends or family due to its authentic bubble tea offerings, inviting atmosphere, and strategic location in a lively neighborhood. It combines delicious drinks, shareable snacks, flexible hours, and a friendly environment that supports diverse group activities and celebrations. Its position in a vibrant part of Boulder adds layers to your outing with easy access to further dining and entertainment options. Whether you aim for a casual catch-up or a longer social event, Lollicup Boulder creates the perfect setting where great conversations and memories naturally unfold.