Bringing Fresh Flavor and Passion to Jersey City: Meet Wendy, Owner of Rui Tea
Rui Tea in Jersey City is a cozy bubble tea shop with a focus on fresh ingredients and unique flavors. At the helm is Wendy, who turned her love of bubble tea into a passion project. From hand-prepared fruit to organic milk, every drink at Rui Tea reflects Wendy’s dedication to quality and taste.
From Finance to Bubble Tea
Wendy’s path to owning Rui Tea started in an unexpected place: the finance industry. After spending more than a decade in the corporate world, she decided to pursue her dream of opening a bubble tea shop. “I’ve always loved bubble tea,” Wendy shared. “In high school, I drank a cup every day after school. It brought me so much joy, and I wanted to share that experience with others.”
What sets Rui Tea apart is Wendy’s commitment to high-quality, fresh ingredients. “A lot of bubble tea places use powders and canned or frozen fruit. I wanted to create something healthier—bubble tea made with the same fresh ingredients I’d use at home,” she explained.
The Rui Tea Difference
Rui Tea’s menu is carefully curated, with every drink designed to highlight fresh, natural flavors. One of their best-sellers, the mango boba coco, is a perfect example. Made with organic mango, the drink is refreshing, vibrant, and bursting with tropical flavor.
Another standout item is their seasonal persimmon drink, which Wendy describes as a labor of love. “We use only fresh persimmons, and they have to be perfectly ripe before we can use them,” she said. “It’s a delicate process, but the result is worth it.”
Rui Tea also offers unique options like the Osmanthus peach oolong fresh tea, which pairs fragrant oolong tea with a subtle floral jelly for a one-of-a-kind experience.
Building a Community in Jersey City
Rui Tea has become a favorite in Jersey City, thanks to its welcoming atmosphere and high-quality offerings. Wendy chose the location because it’s been her home for over a decade. “I’ve lived and worked here for years, so I know the community well,” she said.
What makes Rui Tea even more special is its broad appeal. “About half of our customers are non-Asian, which is rare for a bubble tea shop,” Wendy noted. “We’ve designed our menu to have something for everyone—whether you’re looking for a traditional bubble tea or something more unique and modern.”
Overcoming Challenges
Running a small business is never easy, and Wendy has faced her share of challenges. Early on, a major bubble tea franchise opened just steps away from Rui Tea. But Wendy stayed focused on her mission of providing fresh, high-quality drinks, and her customers took notice.
“Now, customers recognize the difference in what we offer. They know they’re getting something fresh and healthy here,” Wendy said. “We’ve built trust with our community, and that’s incredibly rewarding.”
Looking Ahead
As Rui Tea continues to grow, Wendy is excited to keep experimenting with new flavors and seasonal ingredients. Her dedication to innovation and quality ensures there’s always something exciting on the menu.