When asking yourself about something to do near me in New York with a group of friends or family, consider
Solely Tea
Why Solely Tea is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Solely Tea stands out as New York City's pioneering retail concept that uniquely combines a curated selection of sneakers, streetwear, emerging local artists' creations, and refreshing boba drinks. Founded in May 2021 by teenage siblings Kenney and Amy Zhang, this innovative shop captures the spirit of Chinatown, where the Zhang siblings were raised and where their entrepreneurial roots began with their father's grocery store. Located at 111 Eldridge Street, Solely Tea offers a vibrant space for friends and sneaker enthusiasts to gather, share culture, and enjoy specialty drinks. The store features sought-after sneaker brands like Air Jordan 1s, Nike Dunks, and Jordan 4s, sourced thoughtfully with a commitment to fair trade and community values. Alongside sneaker culture, patrons can enjoy signature beverages such as "The Eddie," a fruity blend of passion fruit, peach, lychee, and green tea, named after a close friend and supporter. Emphasizing inclusivity and a sense of home, Solely Tea also showcases local streetwear and artwork, making it a multifaceted hub for socializing, cultural exchange, and supporting emerging talent. Open Tuesday through Sunday from 11 am to 8 pm, it is an inviting meetup spot that melds fashion, art, and taste in the heart of Chinatown.
Here's what people think of Solely Tea
As of recent, Solely Tea holds a 4.9-star rating based on 182 reviews.
Customer reviews highlight Solely Tea's exceptional combination of boba tea and exclusive sneakers, praising the shop's friendly atmosphere and unique concept. Many reviewers appreciate the quality and flavor of the drinks, with "The Eddie" drink frequently mentioned as a favorite. The curated sneaker collection, including coveted Air Jordans and Nike Dunks, is celebrated for offering both trendy and rare finds at fair prices. Reviewers also commend the community-centered experience the shop offers, noting the presence of local art and streetwear which add depth and character to the space. On the positive side, visitors value the dedication of the youthful owners, the welcoming environment, and the opportunity to explore sneaker culture alongside enjoying specialty teas. Negative feedback is minimal but includes occasional comments on limited seating and the shop's relatively small size, which can feel crowded during peak times. Some customers mention that certain sought-after sneaker stock can be limited due to demand. Despite these minor drawbacks, the overwhelmingly positive reviews reflect a strong customer base and enthusiasm for the innovative blend of products and community-oriented ambiance. Overall, Solely Tea is regarded as a vibrant destination that successfully merges cultural elements and serves as an enjoyable gathering place in Chinatown.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Jake Z
Before I even tasted the yummy drink on my first time visit, I knew i was going to be returning to this establishment because of Kenny, a real awesome person that guided me through/recommended me a great drink to start my tasting of their menu. I look forward to returning whenever I am in the area. This is a top notch, one of the BEST boba experiences you can ask for in the area and maybe all of NYC. Everything tastes so fresh. Thank you Kenny, and Bless Solely Tea 🍵 🙏 ❤️
Jeffrey Gomez
This is a hidden gem in the Lower East Side. They make pretty good boba but I want to talk about the interior. The nostalgia in here is amazing. Everything looks like it was personally selected. The the curation of this place is sick. I got the Grapefruit Delight. I was skeptical of trying it because I thought it would be tart but it was actually smooth. No tartness at all. With amount of lychee. Not to discredit how good the boba but this spot is fire to me and I would just chill in here if I could. Whoever did the decor needs a raise lol. Shout out to my guy Kenny great service and hospitality.
Jacqueline
Stopped by to get a bubble tea and loved how I could customize my own fruit tea! You can mix several fruit flavours to make either a fruit tea, yakult, or slush. You can also customize your own milk tea as well. I got got the strawberry lychee fruit tea and it was just as great as I expected! I also loved the eccentric decor of the place.
El Conta
Tried the mango fusion. It was good. Liked the fact that the jelly was star shaped but overall the taste of the tea is refreshing but feel you can get better elsewhere. (Literally Chinatown is filled with tea shops) the price is decent but you can def get cheaper elsewhere. If your around the area and want to try go for it other than that not worth it.
Christi Balaki
Very tasty and large tea for an extremely reasonable price. The Eddie (passion fruit, mango, peach green tea) was delicious and had perfect notes of flavor. Highly recommend, plus the staff is super nice!
How to reach Solely Tea
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Why Solely Tea may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Solely Tea with your friends?
Gathering with friends at Solely Tea in New York City's Chinatown is an experience that blends delightful refreshments with a unique cultural and community vibe. With an outstanding rating of 4.9 from 182 reviews, it’s clear why this spot is a favorite for meetups. The appeal of Solely Tea lies not only in its delicious, customizable bubble tea offerings—ranging from fruity refreshers to creamy yogurts with jellies—but also in its ambiance, which is infused with nostalgia, vibrant local art, and an eclectic sneaker collection. This combination creates a welcoming, stylish backdrop perfect for socializing. The friendly and knowledgeable staff further enhance the experience, ensuring every visit feels personal and warm. Whether you’re craving a refreshing mango berry bubble tea or want to explore rare sneakers and community artworks, Solely Tea offers something for everyone in your group. Its location—the heart of Chinatown close to other cultural hotspots—makes it easy for groups to plan a day of exploring and then retreat to a cozy, energized space where conversations flow as smoothly as the drinks.
What activities can you enjoy at Solely Tea that make it ideal for a group meetup?
Solely Tea offers a dynamic environment that encourages a variety of activities perfect for groups. First and foremost, the customizable bubble tea bar invites friends to experiment together with drink flavors, sweetness levels, ice options, and toppings, making the experience interactive and personal for each participant. This customization is a fun, communal activity that sparks conversations and shared enjoyment. Beyond tea, the sneaker and streetwear boutique housed inside adds an element of discovery. Groups can browse limited-edition and collectible sneakers, discuss fashion trends, and even purchase unique items, tying in a retail adventure with their gathering.
Additionally, the shop’s decor and ambiance with local artwork serve as a cultural hub, making it an inspiring place for casual meetups or more organized small events. The owners, Amy and Kenney, are actively connected to the community, often promoting local artists and hosting events that can be great opportunities for groups looking for something beyond the usual café scene. The blend of bubble tea, sneaker culture, and art gives friends multiple layers of interest to explore together. On top of this, the cozy yet stylish layout encourages sitting down and relaxing while enjoying music and lively conversations, perfectly suited for small to medium-sized groups seeking both activity and comfort.
How does the environment at Solely Tea enhance group gatherings?
The environment at Solely Tea is carefully crafted to foster a sense of community and comfort that is crucial for successful group meetups. The space features a stylish and eclectic interior that balances modern design with nostalgic touches, creating an atmosphere that feels both fresh and deeply rooted in local culture. Walls adorned with artwork from Chinatown artists and sneaker displays provide conversation starters and photo-worthy moments, appealing to friends who enjoy culture and style alongside their refreshments. Seating areas are arranged to support social interaction without feeling cramped, offering enough room for friends to gather comfortably.
Cleanliness and attentive service ensure that the environment remains pleasant throughout the visit, avoiding distractions that could disrupt the group’s enjoyment. Staff members like Ruby, Kenny, and Amy themselves are recognized for their hospitality, essentially becoming part of the social fabric of the place by greeting guests warmly and engaging kindly. This attentive customer service combined with the ambient music—often old-school tunes or community-curated playlists—adds to the relaxed but upbeat vibe. Overall, Solely Tea’s environment creates the perfect backdrop for groups to catch up, share experiences, and enjoy quality time.
What makes Solely Tea’s food and drink menu appealing for group meetups?
Solely Tea’s menu is a standout feature for any group planning a meetup due to its variety and customization options. Bubble tea lovers can find a range of traditional and innovative beverages, including fruit teas, milk teas, and specialty drinks like lychee yogurt with jellies or the popular Mango Berry Refresher. The ability to control sweetness and ice levels means everyone in the group can tailor their drink to personal taste, catering to diverse preferences. Additionally, the use of fresh, natural ingredients and alternatives like alternative milk options ensures that the menu appeals to health-conscious customers and those with dietary restrictions.
Sharing drinks or trying new flavors together becomes an exciting part of the social experience, allowing friends to compare favorites and maybe discover new ones. Although Solely Tea’s setting is casual and generally geared toward quick to moderate pace visits, the quality and creativity of their beverages make each sip memorable. The menu’s balance of familiar and unique drinks encourages experimentation in groups, which strengthens bonds through shared sensory experiences. Beyond drinks, occasional snacks or seasonal specials may complement gatherings, making this tea shop both a beverage destination and a comfortable meeting spot.
How does Solely Tea’s unique blend of offerings contribute to its popularity as a meetup spot?
Solely Tea differentiates itself by combining two seemingly unrelated cultures: bubble tea and sneakerhead culture, creating a uniquely versatile venue that attracts a diverse crowd. This fusion means that a meetup at Solely Tea can include multiple interests within one location—friends can sip on expertly crafted bubble tea while also browsing limited-edition sneakers and streetwear or appreciating contemporary art from local artists. This mix of interests ensures that everyone in the group finds something engaging, broadening the appeal beyond just tea lovers or sneaker fans alone.
The community-driven approach taken by the owners, siblings Amy and Kenney, adds an authentic local flavor that resonates deeply with customers seeking genuine cultural connections in NYC’s Chinatown. Their background and personal story enrich the space, fostering a welcoming atmosphere that feels like a neighborhood gathering spot rather than just a commercial business. By promoting local artists and designers, they also create opportunities for community interaction through pop-up events and art showcases, encouraging recurring visits. These unique elements combined produce a venue that is vibrant, inclusive, and layered with meaning — perfect for groups seeking more than just a place to eat and drink but a place to create shared memories.
What kind of group meetups are best suited to Solely Tea?
Solely Tea is versatile for a wide range of group meetups, from casual hangouts to more purposeful gatherings. Small groups of friends looking for a relaxed place to catch up will enjoy the intimate yet lively atmosphere, where good drinks and cultural aesthetics create a comfortable setting for conversation. Given the sneaker and artwork displays, groups with shared interests in fashion, urban culture, or art will find plenty to engage with and talk about.
The store also works well for families who want a kid-friendly yet interesting place to experience some trendy bubble tea alongside a different shopping experience. The clean, inviting environment ensures that meetups stay enjoyable and easygoing across various age groups. Additionally, Solely Tea’s occasional hosting of events such as artist showcases or community mixer nights invites groups looking for something a little more structured or culturally enriching. Coworkers or study groups could also find the space suitable for informal meetings, pairing the energizing environment with excellent beverage options that keep everyone refreshed.
Why do customers rave about the service and atmosphere at Solely Tea?
Customers consistently highlight how the friendly and attentive service makes their visit memorable. The staff are known for genuine warmth, helpfulness, and even friendly chats that elevate the typical ordering experience into personal interactions. Staff members like Ruby, Kenny, and Amy themselves are often praised for their ability to make guests feel valued and welcome, which fosters a community ambiance rarely found in other boba shops. This level of service is especially appreciated in a bustling city setting, where a friendly face and good conversation can make all the difference.
The atmosphere complements the service through its stylish, clean, and thoughtfully curated environment. Customers describe the nostalgic decor and sneaker displays as visually appealing and emotionally connecting, turning simple visits into immersive experiences. The music selection—often old school or indie tracks—adds to the chill vibe without overwhelming patrons, supporting lively conversations or quiet reflection alike. This harmonious mix of sincere service and cultural ambiance is a major factor behind Solely Tea’s near-perfect rating and its reputation as a top spot for social gatherings.
How does the location of Solely Tea enhance its appeal for meetups?
Located at 111 Eldridge Street in Chinatown, Solely Tea benefits from a vibrant and culturally rich neighborhood atmosphere. This prime Lower East Side location means that groups can easily combine a visit to Solely Tea with other social or cultural activities nearby, such as exploring local markets, art galleries, and eateries. Being in Chinatown also adds an authentic cultural layer that makes the meetup more than just a tea outing; it becomes part of an urban adventure through one of NYC’s most storied communities.
Accessibility is another advantage, with public transport options and walkable streets making it convenient for groups. The neighborhood’s bustling yet cozy vibe matches the shop’s energy, ensuring that visitors feel part of something unique and lively. For anyone wanting to experience NYC beyond the typical tourist spots, meeting at Solely Tea offers a gateway to discovering hidden gems in a historic and evolving cultural district. The location thus reinforces the shop’s mission to be a communal hub where locals and visitors alike can gather, relax, and celebrate shared interests.
What makes Solely Tea’s combination of tea, art, and sneakers culturally significant?
Solely Tea stands out culturally by blending elements of East Asian bubble tea tradition with contemporary sneaker culture and community art, creating a multisensory experience reflecting the dynamism of modern urban life in NYC. This combination speaks to the identity of its founders, second-generation Chinese Americans who grew up in Chinatown and are now shaping their heritage into a new form of cultural expression. The shop becomes a living narrative of immigrant entrepreneurship, youth culture, and communal creativity.
By incorporating local artwork, streetwear, and rare sneakers into the tea shop format, Solely Tea challenges traditional notions of what a neighborhood café can be. It functions as a cultural gathering space where diverse groups can interact, appreciate art, explore fashion, and enjoy food and drink together. This approach not only preserves cultural heritage but also innovates within it, making the shop a microcosm of Chinatown’s evolving identity. For anyone looking to connect with authentic local culture while sharing a memorable experience with friends, Solely Tea offers a uniquely meaningful setting.
What overall experience can groups expect when meeting at Solely Tea?
Groups meeting at Solely Tea can expect a harmonious blend of quality, comfort, culture, and community. Each visit offers the chance to enjoy expertly crafted bubble tea drinks tailored to individual tastes, alongside the discovery of artistic and fashionable elements that enrich the gathering. The friendly staff and inviting atmosphere ensure that guests feel at ease, whether they are longtime friends or new acquaintances. The shop’s careful attention to detail—from cleanliness to decor and music—creates an environment that is relaxed but engaging.
Beyond just a place to eat and drink, Solely Tea functions as a social incubator where groups can bond over shared interests, explore cultural narratives, and make lasting memories. Its location in the heart of Chinatown further adds to the richness of the experience, allowing for extended outings into a vibrant neighborhood. Whether your group is celebrating a special occasion, catching up after some time apart, or simply looking for a lively, unique spot to spend time together, Solely Tea provides a rare combination of warmth, originality, and community spirit that will leave everyone eager to return.