Showcasing their restaurant’s Asian fusion and drink menu items are (from left) R&B Tea Barista Stephanie Martin, Chef and Partner Hal L, Owner Vivian Ninh and Barista Stephanie Espindola. Behind them sits the eatery’s “Lucky Tree,” filled with hopeful messages  and wishes from customers.

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R&B Tea

R&B Tea, a chain known for its high-quality boba tea, has opened a new location in Orange.  This new franchise location, which opened in the Plaza in March, is the second store owned by Vivian Ninh, who also operates R&B Tea Long Beach.

Ninh decided to expand to Orange to meet the growing demand for boba tea and Asian fusion cuisine among college students and younger customers in the area.

“Orange is a great location with many students who love boba and fun drinks,” she says.  “I wanted to bring R&B Tea here to offer them something fresh and exciting.”

In the restaurant, customers will find a variety of beverages and popular Asian food items.  Drink options include traditional teas such as classic milk teas and herbal-based drinks, as well as unique coffee choices with flavors including coconut and ube.  The menu also features fruit-flavored Yakult-based drinks, which incorporate the popular Japanese probiotic dairy drink known to be tangy and sweet.

One of the well-loved specialty drinks is the Strawberry Stormy, a sweet and icy blended fruit drink.

“The Strawberry Stormy is definitely my favorite, and it’s my go-to whenever I’m getting a drink during my shift,” says R&B Tea Orange Barista Stephanie Martin.

To complement their drinks, diners can order from the food menu, which features popular Asian fusion dishes.  Quick snacks like popcorn chicken, calamari and spring rolls are on the menu, as well as some  Thai-inspired dishes, including Tom Kha, a classic flavorful spicy and sour soup mixed with coconut milk.

Ninh designed the atmosphere at R&B Tea Orange to be fun and welcoming.  She introduced a new feature she calls the restaurant’s “Lucky Tree,” which allows customers to write wishes or messages on pieces of paper and hang them on a tree in the shop.

The tree has quickly become a favorite among customers, which Ninh says has created a sense of community and connection between her team and regular customers.

“I wanted to create a space where people can come, relax and make new memories,” she says.  “The Lucky Tree is a special part of that experience.  It’s amazing to see all the wishes and notes people leave.”

The rest of Ninh’s staff are excited about meeting new customers in Orange as well.  “We’re excited for more people to come in and try our delicious menu,” says Martin.  “I encourage everyone to make the trip out to R&B Tea and find a new favorite.”

R&B Tea Orange
212 East Chapman Ave., Old Towne Orange, CA 92866  /  714-363-3458