Whale … Here’s the Tea

You better boba-leive it — a boba tea specialty shop is opening in Southern Pines. The Whale Tea, located next to Five Guys off U.S. 15-501, is a franchise that features various boba milk and fruit teas made with fresh ingredients (no taro powders) and natural syrups. Brought to you by Red Bowl owner Jessica Lin, the shop will also have some dessert-like options like mochi donuts, cream puffs, macarons and cheesecakes. 

Jessica has always wanted to open a bakery or dessert shop. After visiting a friend who owns a franchise of The Whale Tea in Virginia, she decided she wanted to bring the same relaxing vibe home. “I like sweet stuff, it makes people happy. I want to make people happy,” says Jessica. “I don’t want to keep doing just one thing. Life is too short.” Don’t worry, Red Bowl isn’t going anywhere. Jessica has owned Red Bowl for 10 years now and loves that The Whale Tea is close by. 

The Whale Tea has its own app where you can earn rewards and order online; there are kiosks for self ordering and you can order from the counter. Hours are subject to change but for now will be 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily. A soft opening begins next week, but you can expect to see The Whale Tea fully open in April. In the meantime, check out the menu.