When I stepped into the bustling joint on a Sunday afternoon, I immediately took in the unique and spacious environment. Even with such a large quarters, this place seemed crowded with groups of people studying, hanging out, and just enjoying themselves.
I love love love the lighting. It’s soft, relaxing and probably makes other people, including yourself, look more pleasing in appearance than on a regular basis so bring a date here! Up on the walls, you will see a huge chalkboard with art and graffiti that is constantly changing.
Not, the owner, says that FTB is very fortunate to have amazing and loyal customers that have shared word of the establishment to others. FTB has never had to advertise, but info is passed on through word of mouth and the positive reviews generated online. FTB understands that it is the customers that make their business; and so FTB trains their workers to be patient and friendly to all which is evident when I came in. Not says FTB tries to improve with each and everyday by listening to their customers and never rushing. Through their opinions, criticism, and advice, FTB is able to consistently improve.
What started off at a Ma&Pa tea joint has become one of the most popular tea destinations around the 626 area. The business has become so successful that owner, Not and his business partner is already in production for the next Factory Tea Bar in West Covina. FTB is considered one of Amped Asia’s 626 favorites for a number of reasons. Their dedication to their customers are evident in everything from the friendly service presented to the excellence shown in their drinks and fare.
Lets get to the Tea! The top three drinks that customers order the most of:
1. Factory Milk Tea
Stronger tea flavor, creamy.
2. NumNum Green Milk Tea
Less tea flavor and more creamy. Made with special house cooked syrup.
3. Mango Green Tea
Sweet but not too sweet with real bits of mango. Refreshing.
Although that is the customer’s top picks, Not says that all the milk and flavored teas are lovely. There are many add on’s to the FTB’s drinks such as jellies and pudding but the boba is fabulous. This comes from a person that regularly dislikes the stuff. Their boba is piping hot added to your beverage. The tapioca has a sweetness that can only be complimented by its perfectly chewy and soft texture. Omnomnom!
I want to give props to distinctive drinks FTB has created using the energy drink, Red Bull. With so many students and working individuals coming in, this refreshment is an awesome offering to wake your ass up! There are creations such as Kumquat Redbull, Lychee Redbull, Apple Redbull, and Kiwi Redbull. Now sneak in a little vodka or jagermeister in that mix and you’ve got a party! Beside that line of distinctive drinks, Factory Tea Bar offers a huge variety of different flavored fresh slushies, smoothies, teas (Hot/Cold/ or Milk), and yogurt blends. There are seasonal fresh fruit juices so if you are in, take full advantage of it!
Popcorn Chicken
The chicken was perfectly seasoned and you can choose between non-spicy, mild, and spicy. The meat is juicy and tender while the outside is scrumptiously crispy.
Fried Gyozas
1) Use your fingers to snatch them up.
2) Dunk goyozas in the house made special sauce.
3) Savor the luscious and juicy filling in contrast to the crunchy but chewy outer layer that holds it all together.
4) Don’t share.
Factory Tea Bar’s Brick Toast
Save room for their dessert! Factory Tea Bar’s brick toast is definitely a sweet fanatic’s fantasy. I ate this with Kevin and we couldn’t even finish it. They take a huge brick toast, cut out the center, and fill it with four generous scopes of vanilla ice cream. It’s than drizzled with house made caramel and chocolate syrup. The soft bread center is soaked in a magical but secret condensed milk and cream liquid, baked, and then dusted with powdered chocolate. FTB’s brick toast is serious business you guys.
Go check out Factory Tea Bar!
323 S Mission Dr, San Gabriel, CA 91776
(626) 872-2969
www.factoryteabar.com
Written by Emma