Kawaii Boba House is a small boba shop serving big smiles. Providing over twenty flavors of tea, boba, popping pearls and jellies, Kawaii Boba House has the largest selection of flavors in Central Arkansas and is always on the lookout to expand its options.

Kawaii Boba House opened its first location in February 2020 in a tiny house at the end of Prince Street in Conway. Since then, they have opened two additional locations, one in Little Rock in the Heights and another in the Conway Commons shopping center.

Boba is typically referred to in two ways, either referring to the drink itself or to whichever add-on is put in the drink. Traditionally, boba refers to the little brown spheres in the bottom of the cup, which are a chewy and sweet addition to any beverage.

At Kawaii Boba House, customers can also enjoy Bao alongside their favorite drink. Bao are steamed buns made with fluffy, soft dough and a filled center. There are currently five flavors: Korean BBQ, Taro, Red Bean, Custard and Sesame. Walk-in locations also carry Kawaii and Anime themed merchandise.

Zhen Cao, the owner of Kawaii Boba House, says boba tea is fun for everyone. “We have a huge diversity in our customers. Some are experienced boba drinkers, while others head our way to try it for the first time,” Cao said.

The goal of Kawaii Boba House was to bring a new experience to Conway’s diverse food scene, and based on the shop’s growing popularity in the community, it has succeeded. One thing that makes customers enjoy Kawaii Boba House so much is its originality.

“The most significant quality that makes boba tea unique is that it is a snack and drink in one,” Cao said. “With so many options, customers can try a classic or create a bold flavor combo customizing their own signature drink.” 

At Kawaii Boba House, customers begin by picking out a signature drink or customizing their own. Customizing your drink is not difficult, and Kawaii Boba House’s menu even has a step-by-step guide, conveniently located online and at the front of each store.

Walking into Kawaii Boba House, customers are immediately greeted by friendly employees. Anime merchandise, keychains and figurines hang on the wall, as well as a TV screen playing popular anime such as “Sailor Moon.” There are barstool tables for customers who want to enjoy their drinks inside, while others prefer to take theirs to-go. At the original Prince Street location, customers can come through the drive-thru and make it back in time for classes or work. 

The sweetness of the staff and the drinks make Kawaii Boba House a worthy stop on your next drink run.

“At Kawaii Boba House, we call it happiness in a cup, your daily dose of serotonin,” Cao said. “Not only are we providing a refreshment, but our biggest goal is to be a special moment in someone’s day. Providing that service helps build friendship in the community, and who doesn’t love to see their friends?”

Kawaii Boba is open from 10:00 a.m to 6 p.m Monday through Saturday and 12:00 to 4:00 p.m on Sunday. For more information, menu updates and deals, check out their Instagram, @kawaiibobahouse, and Facebook page, Kawaii Boba House.