By Ashley Koo

A new spot in Great Neck to enjoy fresh beverages. ViVi Bubble Tea, which already has multiple locations in Queens and Manhattan, is the new go-to spot for local tea lovers. With over forty flavors, ranging from the exotic lychee to the classic black milk tea, customers can easily find their own personal favorites.
The menu also includes inventive variations on the traditional boba milk tea. They have cotton candy floats (yes, milk tea topped with a spiral of cotton candy), Yakult drinks (probiotic infused teas), ice jelly teas (where fruit jellies are used in place of tapioca pearls), and refreshing slushes. It’s a tea-lover’s paradise.

Even if you don’t have a sweet tooth, the bubble tea at Vivi’s is definitely worth a shot. You can control the sweetness level by choosing the “half sugar” option or the “three- quarters sugar” option— or even choose no sugar at all. You can also control what goes in your bubble tea. If you’re not the biggest fan of tapioca pearls, you can opt out by asking for “no bubbles.” If you don’t want your drink to be watered down gradually, you can ask for “less ice” or “no ice” as well. If even this isn’t your cup of tea, Vivi also sells a variety of food, from cheesecakes to ice cream to small pastries to a variety of Asian snacks and candies.
Furthermore, the prices are similar to those of many other bubble tea chains in New York. Available in two sizes, medium and large (comparable to Starbucks grande and venti), the tea prices range from $3.50 to $4.75 for standard milk teas and $3.75 to $5.50 for special floats and slushes. While it’s not cheap, an occasional drink won’t hurt your wallet.
Teas and menu aside, the decor in the cafe is bubbly and fun in its own right. With edgy chandeliers, pops of pink and yellow, and unique wooden tables, the new tea joint radiates a trendy, modern vibe, making it a great place for a quick chat with your friends.
But don’t be mistaken: This is definitely not the place for group study sessions or projects. There are only three tables, so the best option would be to take a tea to go and head to the library to work. Consider stopping by before a trip to the city with friends because ViVi is conveniently located right across from the train station.
ViVi Bubble Tea caters to all, whether you already love tea or want to try something new. The joint offers old classics while taking a spin with some new fun, bubbly creations. So bring your friends and try some bubble tea at ViVi’s before you head back to your usual Starbucks or Caffe Bene order!