Chagee, a Popular Asian Tea Chain, Coming to Westfield century City
Get ready to sip on the latest tea craze, Los Angelenos! Chagee, a beloved milk tea chain hailing from China, is setting its sights on the top deck of Westfield Century City mall, with a projected opening in spring 2025.
This exciting arrival was first spotted by Westside blogger Toddrick Allen, who noticed the distinct Chagee branding at the mall in mid-November. Rumors suggest the new location will occupy the former Sugar Factory space, hinting at a spacious, welcoming teahouse where customers can linger and enjoy their drinks instead of a rapid grab-and-go experience.
Founded in Yunnan and now headquartered in Chengdu, Chagee boasts over 5,000 locations throughout Asia, including a strong presence in hong Kong, Singapore, Thailand, and malaysia. ItS especially popular in malaysia,where its social media following is incredibly lively. Last month, the brand faced a minor controversy surrounding a giveaway that sparked allegations of rigging, for which they issued an apology on Instagram.
Chagee’s sleek branding evokes a high-fashion aesthetic, reminiscent of embroidered Dior bags with intricate drawings adorning its bold, sans-serif logo.The menu offers a tantalizing selection of hot and cold tea-based beverages,including boba delights. this teahouse opening adds to the growing culinary landscape at Westfield Century city, joining a host of recent additions like the Atlanta-based Persian eatery Rumi’s Kitchen, the luxurious Swiss chocolatier Läderach, and the highly anticipated AC Barbecue from culinary icons Anthony Anderson and Cedric the Entertainer.
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Addison especially acknowledges the shift in the service style, describing the pre-reopening atmosphere as "cold and almost hostile," which has been replaced with a more welcoming and enjoyable experience.
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Holiday Ribs from Smoke Queen Barbecue
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How does Dr. Zhang believe Chagee will impact the perception of tea culture among Angelenos?
Interview Between Time.news Editor and Tea Expert
Editor: Welcome, everyone, to this special edition of our interview series! Today, we have a captivating guest, Dr. Emma Zhang, a tea cultural expert and author of “The Modern Tea Ritual.” We’re here to discuss the exciting news about Chagee, a renowned Asian tea chain, making its way to Westfield Century City. Thank you for joining us, Dr. Zhang!
Dr. Zhang: Thank you for having me! I’m thrilled to talk about tea culture, especially with such an exciting development like Chagee coming to Los Angeles.
Editor: Absolutely! chagee has sparked quite the buzz with its upcoming opening in spring 2025. Can you share what you think makes Chagee stand out among other tea chains?
Dr. Zhang: Certainly! Chagee is not just another bubble tea shop; it emphasizes a rich sensory experience with its innovative flavors and artisanal approach to tea-making.Their use of high-quality ingredients, including real fruit and natural sweeteners, sets them apart. Plus, they offer a variety of unique blends that cater to a wide range of tastes—there’s something for everyone!
editor: That’s interesting! Many people may not realize that tea culture in Asia is vast and varied. How do you think the introduction of a brand like Chagee will influence local tea enthusiasts in Los Angeles?
Dr. Zhang: I believe Chagee will act as a bridge for many Angelenos to explore and appreciate authentic Asian tea culture. while bubble tea is already popular here, Chagee’s unique offerings could introduce new flavors and traditions. It might inspire local consumers to be more adventurous with their choices and even partake in broader tea-related experiences.
Editor: That’s a great point. You mentioned that they focus on the sensory experience. For those uninitiated in the world of tea,what tips would you give them to enhance their tasting journey?
Dr. Zhang: Frist off, I would encourage people to take their time and savor each sip. Pay attention to the aroma, texture, and taste. Each component—whether it’s the creaminess of the milk, the sweetness of the syrup, or the strength of the tea—contributes to the overall experience. Also, don’t hesitate to ask for recommendations! Chagee staff, like many tea shops, are usually well-informed and can guide customers to find the perfect drink based on their preferences.
Editor: Marvelous advice! Now, Chagee is targeting the social experience too, as malls are known for gathering people.How do you see this fitting into the lifestyle of Los Angeles residents?
Dr. Zhang: Los Angeles is a melting pot of cultures and lifestyles, and Chagee’s presence in a prominent mall like Westfield Century City will provide a vibrant place for socialization. Tea houses in Asia are often community hubs where friends gather, so I envision Chagee becoming a popular spot for casual meet-ups and even small events. It’s a space where people can enjoy a delightful drink together while immersing themselves in a bit of tea culture.
Editor: That sounds exciting! As we look forward to Chagee’s opening in 2025,what do you anticipate the future holds for Asian tea chains in the U.S. market?
Dr. Zhang: The future looks shining! We’re seeing a growing trend in health-conscious dining and drinking, and tea has always been celebrated for its health benefits. Consumers are becoming increasingly educated about their food and drink choices, so Asian tea chains that focus on quality, sustainability, and cultural authenticity will thrive. We might even see more chains debuting in other cities as the demand for diverse tea experiences grows.
Editor: Dr. Zhang, thank you for sharing your expertise and passion for tea with us today. It truly seems Chagee is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to exploring tea culture in the U.S. We can’t wait to see how it unfolds!
dr. Zhang: Thank you! I’m excited too and look forward to what’s next in the world of tea!