Meet the Woman Behind Lil M Bubble Tea’s Signature Twist
Discover the story of Michelle Chen, founder of Lil M Bubble Tea. From her high school dream to creating a community-focused bubble tea shop with standout drinks like the Strawberry Matcha Latte, learn how she’s making her mark on the East Coast.
For Michelle Chen, opening a bubble tea shop wasn’t just a business venture—it was a lifelong dream. “Since high school, I always wanted to have my own café,” she shared. Her passion for bubble tea began as a personal love for the drink and transformed into a career when she decided to take the leap from the corporate world to the world of entrepreneurship.
In 2019, Michelle opened the doors of Lil M Bubble Tea, turning her vision into reality. Despite lacking prior restaurant experience, she was undeterred. “I believe you can learn anything if you have the heart to do it,” Michelle explained. “It might take longer if you’re new, but managing people and running a business—that’s what truly matters.”
Building a Bubble Tea Experience Like No Other
In a market saturated with bubble tea shops, Michelle knew she had to create something unique. For her, it wasn’t just about great drinks—it was about building connections. “We treat our customers like family,” she said. “When people come in, we remember their names, establish relationships, and make them feel welcome.”
This approach has cultivated a loyal community of customers who share their milestones—everything from engagements to job frustrations—over a cup of boba. “It’s that personal connection that sets us apart,” Michelle said with pride.
But, of course, the drinks themselves are just as special. One of Lil M Bubble Tea’s standout items is their strawberry matcha latte, which began as a Valentine’s Day special. It was such a hit that Michelle decided to make it a permanent menu item. “Everyone has a strawberry matcha, but ours has a unique twist,” she noted.
Michelle’s commitment to quality began long before the shop opened. She spent months taste-testing bubble tea from shops across the tri-state area, experimenting with recipes, and seeking feedback from friends and family. The result? A menu packed with fan favorites and seasonal surprises.
Facing Challenges With Creativity
Running a bubble tea shop on the East Coast has its challenges, especially during the colder months when demand tends to drop. To counteract this, Lil M Bubble Tea offers a range of hot drinks, snacks, and even macarons to keep customers coming back. “We try to introduce something new every season, like winter drinks or Valentine’s specials,” Michelle said.
Promotions also play a key role in keeping customers engaged. From buy-one-get-one deals to rewards through their app, Michelle ensures that there’s always a reason for customers to stop by.
What’s Next for Lil M Bubble Tea?
Looking ahead, Michelle is focused on growth. She’s set her sights on opening two more locations this year. “It’s hard to compete with the big brands,” she admitted. “For now, I want to expand at a pace I can manage while maintaining our unique customer experience.”
When asked about her dream guest, Michelle’s answer was as vibrant as her shop: BTS, the global K-pop sensation. She even hinted at themed drinks inspired by the group’s members, a fun idea she has explored in the past.
Advice for Aspiring Restaurateurs
Michelle’s journey hasn’t been without its lessons. Her advice for anyone looking to open a restaurant? “Location is everything,” she emphasized. “Don’t rush. Study the area, even if it means paying higher rent for a good spot. And if something isn’t working, don’t be afraid to let go and move on.”
With her passion, dedication, and community-centered approach, Michelle Chen has created a bubble tea shop that’s as much about people as it is about great drinks.