Looking for a drink that’s more than just a drink? Kung Fu Tea in Short Pump brings the art of bubble tea to West Broad Street, and trust me, this place knows what it’s doing. With over 400 locations nationwide and features in the New York Times and Food Network, they’ve earned their stripes in the boba world.
What Makes This Place Worth Your Time
Walk into the Parkside Marketplace location at 10827 W Broad St, and you’ll find yourself facing a menu that could keep you busy for weeks. We’re talking milk teas, fruit teas, slushes, and even cold-brew coffee drinks, all ready to be customized exactly how you want. Want it sweeter? Done. Less ice? No problem. Add some tapioca pearls (or “bubbles” as the cool kids call them)? They make them fresh every two hours.
The Taro Milk Tea has a cult following here, and for good reason. It’s sweet, creamy, and hits that comfort drink sweet spot without being over the top. But if you’re feeling adventurous, the Rosehip Lemonade brings something different to the table with its pink hue and berry notes. And let’s not forget the Mango Green Tea with mango jelly, which consistently ranks among the most popular orders.
Toppings That Actually Matter
Here’s where things get interesting. Kung Fu Tea doesn’t mess around with their toppings. Beyond the classic tapioca pearls made with brown sugar, you can add pudding (smooth and creamy), nata jelly (coconut and pineapple flavored), red beans (sweet and earthy), or popping bubbles that burst with flavor. Coffee lovers can even add coffee popping bubbles for an extra kick.
Each topping changes the game completely. The herbal jelly adds a slightly bitter contrast that tea purists love. The aloe jelly brings texture and natural nutrients. It’s like building your own drink from the ground up, and yes, you can absolutely go wild with combinations.
Seasonal Surprises Keep Things Fresh
The menu doesn’t sit still. Right now, you might catch limited-time flavors like the Pumpkin Oolong Milk Tea or Brown Sugar Ginger. These seasonal specials show up, make people fall in love, then disappear until next year. It’s the kind of thing that keeps regulars coming back to see what’s new.
When You Can Get Your Fix
Monday through Saturday: 12 PM to 9 PM
Sunday: 12 PM to 8 PM
The afternoon crowd knows what’s up. Students, professionals on break, and families all swing by for that midday pick-me-up. The staff gets plenty of praise for being friendly and genuinely helpful when you’re staring at 50+ menu options, trying to decide.
Why People Keep Coming Back
Reviews tell the story better than I can. People talk about the soft, chewy boba, the huge variety of flavors, and how the place caters to different tastes whether you want something fruity, creamy, or somewhere in between. One regular mentioned how her daughter looks forward to seeing specific staff members who remember her favorite order (the taro bubble tea smoothie, apparently).
The takeout game is strong here, too. Grab your drink and go, or hang out in the comfortable space they’ve created. Either way works.
Getting There and Ordering
Find them in the Parkside Marketplace shopping center on West Broad Street in Henrico (the Short Pump area). You can order ahead through DoorDash, walk in and order at the counter, or use their app if you’re the planning-ahead type.
Price-wise, drinks run around $6 to $9, depending on what you get and which toppings you add. Not cheap, but not outrageous either for a drink that’s basically dessert and refreshment rolled into one.
Short Pump has plenty of food and drink options, but when you want something that’s been perfected over the years and served by people who actually care about getting it right, Kung Fu Tea delivers. Whether it’s your first bubble tea or your five hundredth, they’ve got something that will work for you. Stop thinking about it and just go try that taro milk tea already.
Sources: kungfutea.com, yelp.com, Kung Fu Tea Facebook Page, Kung Fu Tea Instagram Page
Header Image Source: yelp.com
