MANILA – Julia Barretto may have called it quits with her “baba,” Joshua Garcia, but this new “Baa Baa” is here to stay.
Baa Baa Thai Tea is the latest to join the milk tea craze in the Philippines, attracting long lines in Panay Avenue, Quezon City for its refreshing Asian-style drinks.
The owners wanted a space where people can be comfortable and have a good time. Baa Baa Thai Tea is named after a term of endearment “that implies closeness of relationship” – totally unrelated to JoshLia, but fans of the now separated love team can feel free to live out their fantasies here.
For the drinks, chef-founder Joe de Ramos took inspiration from the busy streets of Thailand, where milk tea is taken seriously.
He takes pride in Baa Baa Thai Milk Tea (P70) – also known as Cha Yen – which is made with strongly brewed black tea that is sweetened with sugar and condensed milk.
The Original Milk Tea (P65) is a lighter option of Baa Baa’s signature item, ideal for those who prefer delicate flavors.
“We’ve seen the resurgence of international chains, so I just knew it (milk tea craze) is not dwindling soon. While we don’t rely on the hype, I was inspired to bring this (Thai milk tea) to the country as this is a drink that’s typically enjoyed by people of all ages in Thailand,” De Ramos said.
Other offerings at Baa Baa Thai Tea include the familiar lemon and green teas, brown sugar milk tea, and cheesecake milk tea, to name a few.
Customers who are looking to get a buzz can try the Thai Iced Coffee (P65), which is a nice mix of strong and sweet.
Perhaps the most unique item on the menu – and what most first-timers order – is the Sala Milk (P65). The drink gets its pink color from sala syrup, which approximates the taste of a palm fruit native to Thailand.
Filipinos who get to taste Sala Milk will easily be reminded of Iskrambol, that local street dessert composed of shaved ice, milk, syrup, and a variety of toppings.
Baa Baa Thai Tea’s main branch is located beside St. Mary’s College at Panay Avenue in Quezon City. Other shops can be found in Sampaloc and Santa Mesa in Manila.
source: news.abs-cbn.com
