I’m sure you’ve seen endless Snapchats, scrolled through many Instagram posts, and heard multiple positive reviews about Tpumps, a tea place that recently opened in Pasadena. Based on the over-hyped craze surrounding this place, I decided to try Tpumps for myself with, admittedly, high expectations.
Most of the excitement focused on how cheap the drinks were and the various flavors of tea that the joint offers. The cost of a 24 oz. drink used to be $2.95 while the much larger 32 oz. size drink cost $4.05. Due to recent price changes, each drink is about 50 cents more.
I spotted the ever-growing line in front of the small tea shop before I even laid eyes on it. When it finally got to my turn, I felt a bit overwhelmed.
There were at least a dozen impatient teenagers waiting behind me, burning holes into my back with their gazes as I tried to quickly scan the menu. By nature, I’m the type of person who needs to analyze each choice before I settle on one. I almost felt stressed to pick the first drink that I saw. Thankfully, the employee working the cash register guided me along each step with a constant, friendly attitude and an understanding smile.
I finally decided to go with the Blackberry Peach Black Tea (the first drink that I saw) since it placed number one on the “Tpumps Top 10” list. I felt devastated that the menu didn’t offer a large selection of toppings, so I opted for old, reliable honey boba.
When my order was ready, I took a tentative sip and was pleased with the sweet taste of peaches and black tea that flooded my mouth. Most places load their cups with ice to the point that it becomes unnecessary, so I appreciated how Tpumps added only a reasonable amount. It made me feel like I was getting more tea for my money’s worth. On the other hand, I was far from overjoyed at seeing the pitiful amount of boba nestled at the bottom of my cup.
After taking a few more sips, the tea started to taste less like tea and more like fragrant, but watery syrup. It usually takes me less than 15 minutes to finish a drink, but with this one, I was able to take well-needed breaks in between. If you prioritize drinking high quality tea, you might not take a liking to this place.
Part of the appeal of Tpumps is that customers are able to choose up to three out of 19 flavors for their own personalized drink. You can tailor the sweetness of the drink to your liking and take it back if you’re not pleased with it. Employees promise to alter your order until you’re completely satisfied.
If you don’t trust your own judgment, you can opt to go with a beverage from the Top 10 list. If you want something different, you can also choose from various slushies and smoothies. Employees offer three to four blended teas for customers to try, so you can sample a flavor you’re unfamiliar with.
Tpumps does not have a parking lot, so when you visit, make sure to pay the parking meter if you choose to park in front of the store. Most of the surrounding lots do not allow Tpumps customers to park, and a policeman regularly verifies that each car has a receipt from the meter. In addition, Tpumps is not a good place to hang out since it lands on the smaller side. People typically go only to pick up a drink.
I recommend going to Tpumps to those of you who have a sweet tooth and a small wallet. I walked in hoping to get a great deal on a satisfying drink, and I wasn’t disappointed. The cost is definitely worth the quantity you receive, and customer service is A+. The hype might be dying down, but you might as well make the most of it.
TCHS School Newspaper