At Tea Lyfe Drinks, every sip tells a story. From their Strawberry Horchata to their Osmanthus Oolong creations, this San Jose favorite is all about blending fresh ingredients with cultural creativity.
Tea That’s As Real As It Gets
Tea Lyfe takes their ingredients seriously—like, really seriously. Forget powdered mixes and artificial syrups; everything here is made with hand-selected ingredients from local farmers' markets. Whether it’s their organic matcha from Japan or heirloom hibiscus flowers from Oaxaca, every sip is a testament to their commitment to quality. Tea Lyfe is your antidote if you’re tired of drinks that taste like they were made in a lab.
A Cultural Mashup That Works
Tea Lyfe isn’t just about tea; it’s about celebrating culture. Their menu is a delightful blend of Mexican and Vietnamese influences, offering drinks and snacks that honor both traditions while creating something entirely new.
You’ll find classics like Vietnamese coffee made with a traditional Phin filter alongside horchata crafted from a cherished Mexican family recipe. And then there are the hybrids—like the “Vietchata,” which combines horchata with Vietnamese coffee for a sweet-and-bold flavor explosion.
The Menu: A Flavor Playground
Here’s where things get fun. Tea Lyfe’s menu is packed with options that cater to every mood and craving. Here are some highlights:
- Vietnamese Coffee Series: From the creamy “Ca Phe Breve” to the bold “Dark Matter” (a mix of black milk tea and Vietnamese coffee), this series is a caffeine lover's dream.
- Horchata Series: Their “Strawberry Horchata” features fresh strawberry bits, while the “Zenchata” adds an earthy twist with organic matcha.
- Matcha Series: Speaking of matcha, their “Matcha Sensation” is hand-whisked to order and topped with milk for a rich, velvety experience.
- Fruit Fusions: These are made with real fruit—no shortcuts here. Try the “Mango Rose,” which combines floral green tea with mangoes and strawberries.
- Waffles: Yes, waffles! These Belgian-style treats come in flavors like churro, chocolate, and matcha. They’re buttery, flaky, and perfect for pairing with your drink.
And let’s not forget the toppings! You can customize your drink to your heart’s content from honey boba to house-made grass jelly.
The Vibe: Casual Cool
Tea Lyfe’s San Jose location sits inside Viet Town Plaza in Little Saigon. It’s been serving up its unique offerings since 2015, making it a staple for locals and visitors alike. The atmosphere is relaxed yet buzzing with energy—a reflection of the diverse community it serves. Whether you’re grabbing a quick drink or settling in for some people-watching with friends, it’s the kind of place that feels like home (but with better drinks).
When and Where
Ready to visit? Here are the details:
- Location: 999 Story Road #9023, San Jose, CA 95122 (inside Viet Town Plaza)
- Hours:
Monday–Thursday: 12 PM – 8 PM
Friday–Saturday: 12 PM – 9 PM
Sunday: 12 PM – 7 PM
Keep in mind that hours may vary on holidays, so it doesn’t hurt to double-check before heading over.
Why Tea Lyfe?
Because life’s too short for boring drinks, whether you’re a tea aficionado or just looking for something new to try, Tea Lyfe delivers on all fronts—flavor, quality, and creativity. It’s not just about quenching your thirst; it’s about experiencing something memorable in every sip (and maybe every bite of waffle).
Sources: tealyfe.com, Tea Lyfe Drinks Instagram Page
Header Image Source: tealyfe.com
