Bubble Tea Jackpot: Toronto's FormoCha

I had been scoping out the Yonge St. & Eglinton Ave. neighbourhood for several days before I stumbled upon a familiar site. A site familiar for it’s Chinese characters, it’s artistic rendition of the Map of Taiwan and the words that scream “Bubble Tea”. (For those of you who may be reading this article in Asia and abroad, “Bubble Tea” refers to a famous drink invented in Taiwan, also known as Pearl Milk Tea in the English speaking world.) I couldn't imagine that this bubble tea shop would be any different from all of the rest so I decided to move on and learn more about my new community here in Toronto. 

Several weeks and a few cups of homemade milk tea later, I warmed up to the idea of popping my head into FormoCha Bubble Tea Shop at 55 Eglinton Ave. E. to give it a try. This was the same tea shop that dawned most of the same characteristics of the tea shops found scattered in Taiwan. I called up a friend who I had not seen since high school and we agreed to meet at the shop to give it a try and to catch up after so many years.

The conversation was enjoyable and the stories we had to catch each other up on were endless. However, I have to cut straight to the tea because I have something to tell you that can no longer remain a secret to the people of Toronto.

FormoCha makes the best – in my opinion at least – Bubble Milk Tea this side of Hamilton (and quite possibly throughout Canada…but I haven’t tried the shops in Vancouver, yet!). I was absolutely blown away by the authenticity of the taste – the taste of the Black Tea, the smooth silky feel of the milk, even the tapioca balls that rounded out the whole experience. All that without even mentioning the very clean, welcoming and warm shop, the helpful staff and even some educational notes on Taiwan and it’s incredible “Story”.

I will have to admit that I’m a big fan of Taiwan – I did live on the Island for 9 years – so I’m somewhat biased towards Taiwan Tea. With that said, however, I have not been a big fan of Bubble Tea for a long time now. Still, after taking a stab at the cup in front of me I have to say, without question, that Daniel Li (Owner/Operator) and his entourage make one heck of a delicious Pearl Milk Tea.

A few suggestions for the beginner/novice in the realm of Bubble Tea: Ask for ½ sugar and little to no ice. Trust me! The best measure(ments) give you the greatest unspoken pleasure.

FormoCha Bubble Tea Shop
55 Eglinton Ave E.
Toronto, ON Canada
416.545.0007