From Crash to Comeback – Bubble Tea with a warm Heart in Zwanestraat
We came across a post on Facebook about a woman who had crashed her bubble tea bus and was now making a fresh start in Groningen’s Zwanestraat. Intrigued, we arranged to meet Nadia at her beautiful bubble tea shop – and we were in for a delightful surprise!
It was our first real bubble tea experience, and it was refreshingly different – not too sweet, perfectly balanced, and full of flavor. Nadia herself is truly a lovely person, passionate about her craft and her story.
Curious to know more? Read our full interview with Nadia and discover the story behind Groningen’s most heartfelt bubble tea spot.
T voor Thee – Authentic Bubble Tea in Groningen
Looking for authentic bubble tea in Groningen? Discover T voor Thee, a cozy new tea shop in the heart of the city Groningen. Located on the vibrant Zwanestraat, this hidden gem brings the rich, authentic flavor of Taiwanese bubble tea to the Netherlands – handcrafted with love by founder Nadia. Whether you're a local or visiting Groningen, this is a must-try stop for tea lovers and curious foodies alike!
🧋 T voor Thee – The Owner's Story, Ngan Nadia
Happiness in a cup.
That’s what we hope to bring with every drink.
From Hospitality in Hong Kong to a New Life in Europe
My name is Nadia, and before all of this began, I worked in the hotel industry in Hong Kong for over ten years. Life was structured, stable, and busy — but deep down, I knew I wanted more. I wanted to see the world. So, I made a bold move. I left everything behind and flew to Germany, alone, with no clear plan — just curiosity and courage. I ended up living there for two to three years, and during that time, I grew a lot. I explored new cultures, new languages, and slowly started to rediscover myself.
Finding a New Home in Groningen
Then life surprised me again — I met my Dutch husband, and that brought me to Groningen, a beautiful, peaceful city in the north of the Netherlands.
But something was missing.
Missing a Taste of Home
Back in Asia, bubble tea — or pearl milk tea — is more than just a drink. It’s part of our daily life, our culture, and our emotions. But in Europe, the flavors often felt too sweet, too artificial, or too far from what I remembered.
So I thought, why not try making it myself?
From Kitchen Experiments to a Food Truck
That little idea slowly became a mission. I started experimenting in my kitchen, sourcing ingredients directly from Taiwan. I learned, failed, and learned again. Eventually, I took a leap — I bought a food truck and started selling my drinks on the street.
But just when things were taking off, I had an accident with the truck. It was disheartening. I wasn’t sure what to do next.
Rebuilding the Dream
But instead of giving up, I chose to rebuild — not just the business, but the dream itself.
The response from the community gave me strength. Locals, internationals, students — so many people came to try my drinks. Some told me it reminded them of their hometown. Some had never tasted bubble tea before. It felt like I was sharing a piece of home — through a cup.
Bringing Authentic Bubble Tea to Groningen
Bubble tea arrived in Europe in the early 2000s, often through large franchises that adjusted the recipes. But I felt there was room for something more authentic, more personal.
So at T voor Thee, we do things differently. We brew real tea, use Taiwanese pearls, and focus on balance, texture, and heart. Every drink is handcrafted — because to us, bubble tea is not just a beverage. It’s a memory, a story, and a connection.
A Shop Built on Dreams
And now, I’m so happy to say that we finally have our own little shop.
📍 Zwanestraat 29, 9712 CJ Groningen
From a hotel career in Hong Kong… to a leap into the unknown… to a food truck, a crash, and now a brick-and-mortar bubble tea bar — T voor Thee is built on dreams, courage, and love. And we hope every sip brings you a little bit of that.
Visit T voor Thee, for a Taste of Asia in Groningen
Are you planning a trip to Groningen? Don’t miss the chance to experience one of the city's most heartfelt local businesses. T voor Thee offers a unique and personal take on bubble tea — authentic, balanced, and made with soul.
- 📍 Location: Zwanestraat 29, Groningen
- 🌐 Book a hotel nearby and explore more local gems and shops
Come take a sip and experience the story behind every cup at T voor Thee – your new favorite bubble tea spot in Groningen.
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