Boba is all the rave and always will be. Whether you’re an occasional drinker or a die-hard fan, you probably already show signs of boba addiction. But believe it or not, Taiwanese restaurant Class 302 takes boba shops to a whole ‘nother level with self-serve boba.
What is Class 302?
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For many customers, Class 302 brings back childhood memories with its classroom-like chalkboard walls, desks and chairs. It is an elementary school classroom themed restaurant that serves authentic Taiwanese food.
Photo by Eileen Wang
Among the Taiwanese snacks available are the classic popcorn chicken, plum-seasoned sweet potato fries, stinky tofu, pork blood rice cake (our personal favorite) and many more. Noodle dishes, like the beef noodle soup, come in gigantic bowls, and various rice dishes with ground pork and other proteins are served in traditional Taiwanese tin bento boxes. You’ll be even more impressed by the infamous shaved ices and their overly generous portions.
Photo by Eileen Wang
With its authentic Taiwanese food and whimsical presentation, Class 302 brings a fun experience that is unlike any other Taiwanese restaurants’.
What’s the buzz with self-serve boba?
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The Class 302 located in Irvine, CA is the only location with a self-serve boba option. Upon entry, you’ll find a Yogurtland-like assembly station, with all sorts of drinks lined up against the walls and a toppings section on the side.
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You pay for your cup first, add toppings, your drink(s) and seal your cup at the cashier register. Feeling overwhelmed and don’t know where to start? Check out our topping guide and choose from tapioca pearls, grass jelly, almond jelly, egg pudding, lychee jelly and more. Then, choose from unsweetened and sweetened teas, milk teas and slushies to mix and create your own drink. Lastly, you’ll have to carefully inch your way towards the cashier to seal your cup because you’ll most likely have filled your drink to the rim (shh, it’s okay).
Self-Serve Boba Do’s and Don’ts:
1. Skip the ice.
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Why? The drinks are already chilled, and you can get more bang for your buck.
2. Chubby is the best.
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Torn between the chubby cup and large cup? Despite appearances, there isn’t much difference in size. This video shows that you’ll be paying $1 more for just a little more drink. Verdict? Choose the chubby cup. We promise it’ll be more than enough.
3. Get the tapioca pearls.
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Tried so many bad tapioca pearls that you don’t want to go near them again? We’ve been there and done that. But no sweat—Class 302 cooks up some of the best pearls outside of Taiwan. They are warm, sweet, bursting with brown sugar flavor and very “Q” (referring to the perfect texture).
4. Don’t be afraid to get only toppings or only drinks.
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We’ve witnessed people who get only toppings, and people who only get drinks. It’s totally up to you! And don’t be afraid if your drink looks… unappealing. It’ll taste okay in the end.
Photo by Eileen Wang
If you are around this area over the summer, make sure to stop by Class 302 for some authentic Taiwanese eats and delicious drinks to cool you down.