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CORRECTION: A previous story incorrectly stated Tsaocaa’s country of origin. The company’s from China. An updated story follows.
A Chinese chain of cafes that specialize in cheese tea should open its first Chicago location next month. According to the owner’s Facebook post, Tsaocaa (pronounced “tao-tah”) should debut in Chicago in mid-November at 2026 S. Clark Street near the CTA’s Chinatown Red Line stop. The chain arrived in America earlier this year and has locations in Philadelphia, Baltimore, Las Vegas, and Indianapolis.
Shops that serve cheese tea, a sibling of sorts to bubble tea, are popping up more in Chicago and nationwide. It’s cold green or black tea topped with a layer of foamy milk and cream cheese with a dash of salt. So it’s sweet with a savory finish. The drink has Taiwanese origins.
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The menu at the Baltimore location includes Hong Kong-style egg waffles and bubble teas. The Philly restaurant includes Korean-style chicken. A message to the Chicago location’s owner wasn’t immediately returned so it’s unknown what this location will offer.
Check back for updates.
