The Cozy Tea Loft Story: Denise Tio’s Journey to Bringing Taiwanese Tea Culture to Edison, NJ
Discover Cozy Tea Loft in Edison, NJ, where owner Denise Tio brings authentic Taiwanese tea culture to life. From award-winning Cloud Series drinks to seasonal specialties, enjoy fresh, high-quality ingredients and customizable options. Explore their journey and future expansion into NYC!
At Cozy Tea Loft in Edison, NJ, every sip tells a story of tradition, quality, and innovation. For owner Denise Tio, the journey began in 2022 with a dream to bring authentic Taiwanese tea and the best bubble tea experience to the U.S. Drawing inspiration from a well-established tea brand in Taiwan—with over a decade of experience and 40 thriving locations worldwide—Denise has poured her heart into creating a space that stands out in a competitive market.
Crafting the Perfect Cup
What sets Cozy Tea Loft apart? Denise is unwavering in her commitment to high-quality ingredients. “We bring the tea from Taiwan,” she explains, emphasizing the importance of authentic flavors and freshness. The tea leaves are brewed fresh each morning, and even powdered ingredients are paired with real elements—like their taro drink, which blends taro powder with actual taro for a richer, more natural taste.
The shop’s signature Cloud Series is a must-try, featuring a creamy, salty cheese foam topping. With unique options like Queen Black Cloud, Belgian Chocolate Cloud, and Taro Cloud, these drinks offer something truly special. Their innovation paid off in 2023 when Cozy Tea Loft’s Cloud Series won the championship at a bubble tea festival in Times Square.
For customers seeking customization, Cozy Tea Loft offers full control over sugar and ice levels, ensuring that everyone—from those with a sweet tooth to those who prefer subtle flavors—can find their perfect cup. “Some people think bubble tea is always very sweet, but we can make it completely unsweetened if they want,” Denise shares. This flexibility and attention to detail keep customers coming back for more.
Seasonal Delights and On-the-Road Experiences
In addition to their regular offerings, Cozy Tea Loft keeps things exciting with seasonal drinks. This spring, Denise is especially excited about their Sakura-inspired beverages, crafted to celebrate the blooming season. Seasonal updates ensure there’s always something fresh to try, keeping the menu vibrant and engaging for loyal customers and newcomers alike.
Beyond their Edison storefront, Cozy Tea Loft is a regular at food festivals and events across the country. From the Japan Fest to the Taiwan Fest and even the upcoming Asian Dream Festival in Las Vegas, Denise and her team are spreading their love for authentic Taiwanese tea to a broader audience. “We do almost 100 events every year, traveling all over the states,” she says.
Looking Ahead
While Cozy Tea Loft is thriving in Edison, Denise is already looking to the future. February 2025 marks the opening of a new location in SoHo, NYC, with additional stores planned for Long Island City and midtown Manhattan. It’s an ambitious step forward, but Denise’s passion and dedication to quality ensure success is brewing.
Her advice for anyone dreaming of opening a bubble tea shop? Focus on the details. “Use good ingredients and focus on quality,” Denise stresses. “People are willing to pay $8 or $10 for a drink, but they want it to be worth it. If you want your customers to come back, you have to offer them something great.”
A Personal Touch
For Denise, the journey of running Cozy Tea Loft has been both rewarding and bittersweet. Since opening the business, she hasn’t had a chance to return to Taiwan or see her parents in person. “If I could pick anyone to try our tea, it would be my parents,” she says thoughtfully. “I hope they can visit one day.”
Denise’s love for her craft and her roots shines through in every drink at Cozy Tea Loft, making it a must-visit for tea lovers near and far.