Behind the Scenes with TeaFé
We spoke with the owner of TeaFé to learn how they brought their unique mix of boba and coffee to State College. Check out our interview to hear how their Vietnamese coffee and brown sugar tiger boba have made them a favorite among students and locals.
Located just a mile away from Penn State’s campus, TeaFé offers a tranquil escape from the busy downtown area. We sat down with Minh, one of the co-founders, to learn more about the story behind this boba shop.
Can you tell us how TeaFé came to be?
“I grew up in New Orleans, where I worked at a few bubble tea shops and Vietnamese restaurants. When I moved to State College, I noticed there weren’t many boba tea places around. I talked to my partners, and we decided to open our own,” Minh explains.
Unlike many boba spots in town, TeaFé is located outside the main downtown area. “We’re the only boba shop away from downtown, which means more space and free parking,” Minh says. “It gives people a place to come, relax, study, or hang out with friends without worrying about parking or crowds.”
What do you think makes TeaFé stand out from other boba shops?
“We offer both boba tea and coffee, which is unique around here,” Minh shares. “Most boba places open later in the day, but we wanted to serve both morning coffee drinkers and those who want boba throughout the day.”
What drink put you on the map?
“The Vietnamese coffee. There’s not really anywhere else in town that serves it like we do. People come in and say it reminds them of the Vietnamese coffee they’ve had in places like New York or even Vietnam. It’s one of our best sellers.”
What’s one thing on your menu that you think everyone should try?
“I’m still hooked on our brown sugar tiger boba. It’s a classic, but people always come back for it. We’ve got our own secret recipe, and I’m pretty confident it’s one of the best in town.”
What advice would you give to someone who wants to open their own boba shop?
“Don’t give up. In the beginning, it can be tough, and you might not get customers right away, but that’s normal,” Minh advises. “You’ve got to keep learning and following trends to stay relevant. The moment you stop learning is when you start falling behind.”
TeaFé’s blend of boba tea, coffee, and a peaceful atmosphere has helped it quickly grow in popularity among students and locals alike. Whether you're stopping by for a study session or grabbing a coffee on your way to class, TeaFé is a must-visit in State College.