Some of the most popular Chinese chain beverage stores among international students include:
These chains offer a diverse range of beverages, catering to different tastes and preferences, and are often found in major cities with large populations of international students.
Luckin Coffee
Lucky Coffee, also known as Luckin Coffee (瑞幸咖啡), was founded in 2017, Luckin Coffee quickly gained popularity for its convenient ordering system, affordable prices, and aggressive expansion strategy, aiming to challenge the dominance of Starbucks in the Chinese market.
International students in China were attracted to Luckin Coffee for its modern and trendy image, as well as its emphasis on technology, such as its mobile app for ordering and delivery. Additionally, its relatively low prices compared to other coffee chains made it appealing to students on a budget.
CoCo
CoCo is a popular choice among international students, both in China and in other countries where it has expanded its presence.
CoCo is a Taiwanese bubble tea chain known for its diverse menu of bubble teas, fruit teas, and other refreshing beverages. It has gained a global following for its wide selection of flavors, customizable options, and consistent quality.
International students often enjoy CoCo for its vibrant and Instagram-worthy drinks, as well as its convenient locations near campuses and in popular shopping districts. Additionally, CoCo’s competitive pricing and frequent promotional offers make it a budget-friendly choice for students.
Heytea
Heytea, also known as Xicha (喜茶) in Chinese, is a highly popular Chinese beverage chain known for its innovative tea-based drinks. Founded in 2012, Heytea has quickly become one of the most recognizable brands in China’s beverage industry, with a growing presence both domestically and internationally.
Heytea prides itself on using high-quality ingredients, including premium teas, fresh fruits, and top-notch dairy products. This commitment to quality ensures that every drink is flavorful and satisfying.
Heytea has cultivated a modern and stylish brand image, with sleek store designs and trendy packaging. International students are often drawn to Heytea’s aesthetic appeal, making it a popular hangout spot for socializing and relaxation.
Heytea outlets are strategically located in major cities, shopping malls, and popular tourist destinations, making them easily accessible to international students living or studying in urban areas.
Visiting Heytea provides international students with an opportunity to immerse themselves in Chinese tea culture and explore unique flavor combinations that may not be available in their home countries.
Mixue
In 1997, Zhang Hongchao, who was in college, opened his life’s sweet business in Zhengzhou, a national chain brand of fresh ice cream and tea drinks. And established the honey snow ice city mission: “let the brand stronger, let partners richer, so that everyone around the world to enjoy the high quality and affordable flavor”.
Mixue Bingcheng offers a variety of shaved ice desserts featuring different toppings, such as fresh fruit, sweet beans, taro balls, and flavored syrups. The shaved ice itself is typically light and fluffy, with a texture similar to snow, hence the name “Snowflake.”
International students often enjoy Mixue Bingcheng for its refreshing and Instagram-worthy desserts, which are perfect for cooling down during hot summer days. The chain’s cozy and modern ambiance also makes it a popular spot for social gatherings among students.
Nayuki
Nayuki (奈雪の茶), also known simply as “Nayuki,” is a popular Chinese beverage chain specializing in fruit teas, cheese teas, and other innovative tea-based drinks. While Nayuki originated in China, it has gained international recognition and has expanded its presence beyond China’s borders, including locations in countries like Singapore and Japan.
Nayuki is known for its creative and unique tea concoctions, such as fruit teas topped with cheese foam, cheese teas infused with floral flavors, and other innovative combinations. These drinks offer international students a refreshing and exciting taste experience.
Nayuki’s stores are designed with a modern and chic aesthetic, featuring stylish decor and comfortable seating areas. International students often enjoy the ambiance of Nayuki’s outlets, making them popular destinations for social gatherings and study sessions.
Nayuki promotes a health-conscious approach to beverage consumption, using natural ingredients and offering options with reduced sugar levels. This appeals to international students who prioritize health and wellness in their lifestyle choices.
Nayuki’s outlets are typically located in major cities, shopping malls, and popular commercial areas, making them easily accessible to international students living or studying in urban centers.
Happy Lemon
Happy Lemon (快乐柠檬) is a well-known Chinese beverage chain that specializes in a wide variety of creative and refreshing drinks, particularly featuring lemon-based flavors. It has gained popularity not only in China but also internationally, with numerous outlets in countries around the world.
Happy Lemon is famous for its signature lemon drinks, including lemonade, lemon tea, and lemon smoothies. These beverages are known for their refreshing taste and are particularly appealing during hot weather.
In addition to lemon-based drinks, Happy Lemon offers a diverse range of flavors and combinations, such as milk teas, fruit teas, and specialty drinks like rock salt cheese drinks. This variety caters to different preferences and ensures there’s something for everyone.
Happy Lemon stores typically have a fun and vibrant atmosphere, with colorful decor and lively music. This creates an enjoyable environment for international students to hang out with friends or study while enjoying their drinks.
Happy Lemon outlets are often located in busy shopping districts, commercial areas, and near universities, making them easily accessible to international students living or studying in urban centers.
Happy Lemon offers reasonably priced drinks, making it a budget-friendly option for students. The affordability of its beverages allows students to indulge in their favorite drinks without breaking the bank.
