A Thousand Smiles Bubble Tea has made a delightful entrance into the Indiana beverage scene, offering not just drinks but a vibrant atmosphere that resonates with the community. Located at Campus Edge, this bubble tea shop has quickly become a local favorite since its opening on March 8, 2023. With a diverse menu and unique offerings, it promises an experience that goes beyond just sipping tea.
A Thousand Smiles Bubble Tea boasts an extensive menu that caters to various tastes. Initially launching with a limited selection of milk teas, the shop responded to customer feedback by expanding its offerings to include soda options and refreshing lemonades. Among the standout items are the strawberry and brown sugar milk teas, as well as the popular Summer Sea Lemonade, which features a vibrant blue raspberry flavor. Local patrons have also praised the honeydew milk tea with lychee boba, which has become a personal favorite for many.
The shop does not stop at beverages; it also houses an Asian market that provides customers with hard-to-find snacks and cooking supplies. Shoppers can discover treats like mochi, unique flavors of Kit Kats, and various traditional Asian cooking ingredients. This market aspect sets A Thousand Smiles apart from typical bubble tea shops, making it a one-stop destination for both food and cultural experiences.
The ambiance at A Thousand Smiles is designed to be inviting and nostalgic, evoking memories of childhood visits to Chinatown for many customers. Community member Silas Haley shared, “I like the vibe the most. You instantly get happy when you walk in.” The shop features a cozy seating area adorned with stuffed animals, creating a playful yet calming environment. Visitors are encouraged to sign a guest book, further enhancing the sense of community.
Frequent visitors are greeted by the catchy tune “Bubble Tea” by artist Sonyo, which plays on repeat throughout the day. This signature song has become an integral part of the shop’s identity, with customers often asking staff about its presence if it’s not playing. Employee Yanika Phetchroj, who is also a PhD candidate at IUP, noted that the song has become synonymous with the shop experience.
Owner Narin Loose, who previously worked at the now-closed Chaiyo Asian Market and Bubble Tea shop, recognized a demand for bubble tea in the community. After receiving numerous requests to reopen a similar establishment, she seized the opportunity at Campus Edge with support from her husband and family. Loose expressed her commitment to fostering community relationships rather than competing with other local businesses. She collaborates with nearby Thai restaurants and Commonplace Coffee, aiming to create partnerships that benefit all parties involved.
A Thousand Smiles Bubble Tea is also dedicated to giving back to the community by providing discounted catering for local school fundraisers, showcasing their commitment to supporting local initiatives. Loose encourages student groups from IUP to reach out for potential collaborations, emphasizing her desire to strengthen ties within Indiana.
As A Thousand Smiles Bubble Tea continues to grow, it stands as a testament to community spirit, offering not just delicious drinks but also a welcoming space for connection and nostalgia.
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