Chicha San Chen

325

934

3872

24 days ago

For a Michelin rated bubble tea shop, I am disappointed in the one here. Service is very unenthusiastic. Ordered two drinks they put in one drink. The drink itself is fresh. The bubbles are not amazing, takes away half the experience. The bathroom is there but no ventilation? I was choking on the smell of bleach. It was going into my lungs and down my throat. Either they need to cut that out and use organic or install a ventilation! Hazardous for workers and customers!! Please look into this. read more

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Jenny G.

85

630

2986

3 months ago

The tea with honey is really refreshing on a hot summer day. A bit expensive for what it is, but give it a try. read more

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Noelle W.

217

207

427

9 days ago

It was busy so it took a bit to order, and also to get the order, but otherwise I enjoyed my drink a lot and would stop by again if I was in the area. I got the oolong tea, passion fruit, and coconut jelly which was bright, fresh, and tasty. The little carrier was cute and helpful. read more

Chicha San Chen - Oolong tea, passion fruit, and coconut jelly which - Bubble Tea Near Me - Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

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Sarah A.

13

220

262

1 month ago

I'm not gonna lie I'm sad to say I was underwhelmed... the boba wasn't as flavorful as I had hoped. The ice chunks were huge so it was hard to drink the tea. There's only one size and I wasn't impressed by the tea taste or quantity. I got the volcano bubble tea but would be open to trying another flavor read more

Chicha San Chen - Bubble Volcano - Bubble Tea Near Me - Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

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Trinh P.

16

349

229

4 months ago

Their to go handle is so cute!!! There is a self kiosk to order. Small clean cozy place. Seating in the back. Drinks made to order. Love their milk tea and oolong!! Boba soft and chewy and drinks with the perfect sweetness! Also offer alternative dairy which is a plus. Cant wait to be back! read more

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Francis S.

210

403

2890

4 months ago

I heard this place got a Michelin star in Taiwan, so I had to try it, and I have been back many times since. The shop is small and quaint, with a little seating area and a clear view of the tea being made, which I really like. It feels similar to a specialty coffee bar, but for tea. The tea flavor is very strong in a good way. You can tell a lot of care goes into it. There is not a huge menu, but that seems intentional since they focus on doing a few things really well. Because it is so popular and the tea is made using an artisan drip method, the wait can be pretty long. The staff works hard, but the brewing process itself takes time, so this is not the place to go if you are in a rush. Overall, the tea is delicious and high quality. Just be ready to wait, because the wait is part of the experience. read more

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Jennifer K.

153

184

759

3 months ago

Cute place! Fresh tea. Great customer service and reasonable price. Highly recommend. read more

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Retna S.

265

1096

13769

10 months ago

I'm so happy to know that they have carry out bag. I don't mind paying 54 cents because my drinks are secured and won't spill. They are fixed on a cardboard carrier perfectly fit in the bag. I had the light orange tea with boba. So refreshing with the fresh orange. No sugar, but sweet enough from the orange juice. The grape fruit has chopped fresh grape. Also no sugar needed because the sweetness comes from the grapes. read more

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Rich B.

158

296

70

6 months ago

One of the best boba cha I've had in Chinatown. The patented Lion " teapresso" machine is used here. It grinds & brews your choice of tea to order. While there are no definitions of the teas per se, you can visually inspect and take a whiff of them at the counter where you order. This is an international award winning chain originating in Taiwan. The awards were given by the ITI, The International Taste Institute, which is equivalent to a Michelin rating but includes drinks as well as food. I was offered a sample of one of their fruit based drinks, but it was kind of sweet & not really what I wanted. I got the Dong Ding Oolong with boba, less ice & 30% sugar. The tea flavor really came through & the boba had the perfect chewy consistency. There were only two people ahead of me & my drink came out in under 10 minutes. I actually watched them make it as you were able to see the girl select the tea. It's a very cool looking machine. The finished product is uniquely packaged. Priced a little bit higher than most, but the quality is definitely top tier. The place is immaculate. I hope to return soon and try some of the other varieties. I just noticed a they opened up in the Northeast, which is closer to my house. They also offer scheduled tea tastings and tea ceremonies which sound very interesting. read more

Chicha San Chen - Dong Ding Oolong - Bubble Tea Near Me - Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Chicha San Chen - Bright, airy, immaculate space. - Bubble Tea Near Me - Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Chicha San Chen - The Lion teapresso machine - Bubble Tea Near Me - Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Chicha San Chen - Getting my tea ready to brew - Bubble Tea Near Me - Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

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Karen T.

198

915

1654

1 year ago

Tea shop that puts a "shot" of tea in each cup/drink ordered. We've tried a number of the tea shops I. The area and this is our favorite. There are days when there is a line out the door but the line generally moves pretty fast and they'll tell or warn you if there is going to be a long wait. This is a build your drink type of approach. You select the type of tea, a sweetener if you'd like, and last a (optional) topping. All of the teas that I've tried are good (and you can actually taste the tea). Mango and passion fruit are my favorite sweeteners and boba and taro balls were my favorite toppings. Sadly, they haven't had the taro balls again for awhile. Overall, great place for tea! Thy gave a couple of small tables if you want to sit. read more

Chicha San Chen - Fruit gathering, bubble milk tea, high mountain with taro, passion fruit - Bubble Tea Near Me - Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

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Mia H.

68

1287

2994

8 months ago

I've always heard so much about Chicha San Chen, but I never got the hype. I found their teas to be good but nothing special (maybe my expectations were too high, so I was underwhelmed). The wait here can get a bit long as they're so busy, but there's some seating to wait at. read more

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Caroline Z.

497

666

2747

1 year ago

Dong Ding Oolong Tea Unbeatable boba tea. The tea flavor is incredible, and the boba is excellent and chewy and delightful read more

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Alissa S.

14

166

208

9 months ago

Honestly wasn't impressed with their tea. There were a lot of people waiting for their drinks so I thought it'll be good. I got the Dong Ding Oolong Tea Latte with less sugar and ice. I barely tasted the tea, it was overwhelming and iced milk drink with maybe a splash of tea. I probably won't be coming back here, just hoping heytea makes its way to Philly!!! read more

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Janet C.

96

349

466

10 months ago

Cute little boba shop in Chinatown. There are a few tables inside where you can sit and enjoy your tea. I tried their mango tart (high mountain tea with mango and mousse) which was refreshing, though this is one you cannot customize the level of sugar/ice with. I do find their teas sorta overpriced, but this seems to be the case with many boba shops in the area. I am interested in trying their orange series next. They offered cute cup holders with strings attached to create a cup carrier so you can take your order to go. Service was as expected. read more

Chicha San Chen - Mango tart - Bubble Tea Near Me - Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

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Jennifer Y.

87

60

177

8 months ago

Went there on a Sunday close to closing and there were a few ppl still waiting to order. I wanted to order the Bubble Volcano but they ran out of boba. I ordered the Iced Dong Ding Oolong Latte. Was a bit disappointed as it tasted a bit watered down. My mom ordered the honey osmanthus oolong and she enjoyed it. The tea was refreshing. Drinks were a bit on the pricier side and comes one size. read more

Chicha San Chen - Dong ding oolong Dong Ding Oolong Tea Latte Ice - Bubble Tea Near Me - Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

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Emily T.

8

74

111

9 months ago

I've seen this chain in other cities but this was my first time trying it. I can totally see why it's so popular. The aesthetic is really nice and I love how they have handles on their cups. Honestly they don't even need it to sell their drinks because their drinks are already by itself but with this in addition it just becomes 100% better! I wish they had a chain closer to me but I will definitely come back again in the future :) read more

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Becca K.

6

84

376

9 months ago

I love chicha san chen. I went to this location 3 times in one week because there's no chicha in Chicago LOL if you like Taiwanese milk tea and more on the tea emphasis, this place is for you! I can't wait to go back here again read more

Chicha San Chen - Menu - Bubble Tea Near Me - Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Chicha San Chen - Light Tea with Orange - Bubble Tea Near Me - Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Chicha San Chen - Don't - Bubble Tea Near Me - Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Chicha San Chen - Dong Ding Oolong Tea Latte Ice - Bubble Tea Near Me - Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Chicha San Chen - Bubble Milk Tea - Bubble Tea Near Me - Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Chicha San Chen - Vibe - Bubble Tea Near Me - Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

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Ilene E.

69

617

968

9 months ago

Always a pleasure coming here and smelling the tea leaves brewing. Open space in the lobby to wait or take selfies, staff always helpful when I visit. Drinks usually take 15 min to make. My husband loved the lemon tart drink. I opt for low to no sugar to taste the tea leaves. Please bring back the taro ball toppings. read more

Chicha San Chen - Creamy Lemon Tart Dong Ding Oolong Tea Latte Ice - Bubble Tea Near Me - Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

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Jamie I.

2

8

0

21 days ago

I really wanted to like this place. It's clean and nicely decorated. Unfortunately, an $8 taro milk tea filled with 90% ice was a horrible customer experience. Why would a place take advantage of customers like that?? I literally took 3 sips of milk tea and the rest was ice. In addition, the girl working late afternoon today doesn't want to be there. Unenthusiastic, and avoids eye contact. Awful customer service skills. She relaxed her upper body across the counter after handing me my drink. You're paying for the ambiance, entitled service, and ice. Save your money and go somewhere else. There are much better boba tea spots nearby. read more

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Sarina L.

727

484

593

1 year ago

After roaming the streets of Philly the heat and humid got to us and we needed a cool drink to cool off with. I was super excited to find that Chicha San Chen was in the east coast as well! And you know I had to bee-line my way to Chicha! Can't go wrong with the Dong DIng Oolong Tea with boba. When I'm feeling a bit fruitier I will go for a refreshing mango iced tea or the passion fruit. Depending on what base tea you like, they can mix and match for you. I've never been dissapointed by the quality and pretty happy to find seating to rest our tired feet. AC inside didnt kick in until the last half of our stay. Got kinda warm. read more

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mark y.

49

805

1016

2 years ago

No line! And such cute eco friendly drink holding slings. Of course I had to get two. read more

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Cristina C.

249

233

913

1 year ago

I have been wanting to try this place in NYC for a while now but there is always a long line. I came to Philly for a weekend getaway and passed by and saw there was no line so I had to try. I got the bubble milk tea and came out to $7.xx. The tea flavor was really good and strong but the boba was a disappointment. I definitely had better boba elsewhere. The packaging is super cute though! read more

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Violet E.

20

153

395

1 year ago

Chi Cha San Chen is a great place to get boba to go. It is consistently fresh, not too sweet, and good service. However, I have never been in the store without standing in line or feeling like I was in another customer's way. This is a place you come in (and out) of to get good boba, not to sit and study. There are a few tables, but the store itself is very small. The restroom is also out of order in the store. These are just the vibes... but the boba makes up for it. I would recommend ordering the oolong milk tea with less ice and half sugar, or the sparkling orange with lychee jelly. Both combinations have been amazing! read more

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Robert Z.

52

461

1336

1 year ago

Ever since I had Chicha out in LA, I keep craving it and was pleasantly surprised to find a location in Philly's chinatown. It was walking distance from my hotel so I went three times over the weekend, not excessive. Anyway, this is a small but bright and aesthetically pleasing boba shop. Staff was all nice and even gave us samples the first night (highlighting their mango). What makes Chicha stand out to me amongst the hundreds of boba shops is their rather meticulous method to make a drink. Tea, sugar, toppings are all measured out. Tea is brewed to order and the tea they have actually has a tea flavor. You can still adjust the sweetness for most drinks but premade ones don't have this option. They also have seasonal flavors that go with whats in season, peach/mango in summer, taro in winter, orange in fall (at least from what I can tell since I don't live somewhere to go daily to my wallet and health's benefit). I also finally tried their boba and it was very nicely chewy and flavored so A+ there as well! read more

Chicha San Chen - Orange light tea with boba - Bubble Tea Near Me - Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Chicha San Chen - Creamy mango tart - Bubble Tea Near Me - Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

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Charles D.

56

160

206

1 year ago

Nice clean place for a quick bubble tea. Good array of options. Got an oolong tea with passion fruit and grass jelly. Served quickly and very tasty. Only downside was the 40 cents convenience fee surcharge for paying by card. read more

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Uyen N.

197

552

1454

1 year ago

I think this place has pretty good bubble tea. The quality of bubbles is great and pretty consistent, unlike at gong cha when sometimes it is too soft. One thing I don't like is there is a limit for customization, as in you can only choose 1 option under Flavor and Topping. I also don't recommend adding cream to your drink because it tastes like powder milk. The tea base I like are the osmanthus oolong, high mountain pouchong tea, and dong ding oolong tea. read more

Chicha San Chen - High mountain pouchong tea w honey and bubbles - Bubble Tea Near Me - Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

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Anna N.

46

164

285

1 year ago

Nice and fragrant teas! Service was on par and the cashier was patient. The interior is bright and clean, but there isn't much seating. Seating was compact and the small tables are very close together. read more

Chicha San Chen - Dong Ding Oolong Milk Tea - Bubble Tea Near Me - Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

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vidia c.

121

451

4412

2 years ago

Date of visit: 7/31/24 Supposed to be a premium tea place , but what I received today totally didn't reflect that. Tea was super light and missing all the tea fragrant that usually greet me the minute I enter both Chicha's tea shops in SoCal. Boba was also a bit too hard to my liking. This place def need to step up! read more

Chicha San Chen - 7/31/24: left is green tea with boba no sugar. Right is osmanthus oolong with konjac with light sugar. Both tasted like diluted teas - Bubble Tea Near Me - Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

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Shelly D.

15

117

364

2 years ago

Judging by the line outside I think this place newly opened. (+) they're very famous in LA , lots of hype and attraction. (-) their drinks were very mediocre, reminds of quickly from the old days. Honestly don't know if it's because of the drink I ordered. It was quite disappointing. read more

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Michael C.

652

453

1675

1 year ago

Quick service, nice interior. Drink was flavorful and fresh tasting. Good stop in Chinatown! read more

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Caitlin L.

Elite 25

198

407

548

11 months ago

Fancy, schmancy boba place. Not sure if I really think the tea is high quality, or if I'm just influenced by the thought of it. Service is knowledgeable and pleasant. Overall, good tea is good tea. read more

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Rebecca F.

72

351

3134

2 years ago

Definitely the most popular boba spot in Chinatown. Had very long lines when we went on a weekend. Having tried many boba spots (including in Taiwan), this is good boba tea. Just don't think it's worth the long wait and the higher price. It's a good bucket list spot. Pros: -simple menu with quality tea and toppings -boba was fresh and soft, chewy -you can take the classic tea flavor, better than the average boba place -not too sweet -gave a good amount of topping -comes with a cup holder string - which is unique and a nice souvenir -some seating insides, which is more than most in Chinatown Cons: $10 card minimum -pricey - $5.50 for just the tea itself and it's only one size - medium read more

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Linda Q.

134

62

191

1 year ago

Was looking for something both milky and refreshing and this high mountain pouchong tea with lemon juice and mouse hit the spot!! As a lemon/lime dessert lover, you have to try this. This reminded me of a key lime pie in drink form. One of my new favorite dessert drinks of all time, will be thinking about this often and can't wait to try their other drinks! read more

Chicha San Chen - Lemon - Bubble Tea Near Me - Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

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Henry N.

115

41

111

2 years ago

Love how they make the tea in front of you fresh. Taste was good but I don't know if the little long wait is worth it like that. Service was great and the decor was nice as well read more

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Ju L.

455

819

2296

2 years ago

I finally had the chance to check out Chi Cha San Chen over the weekend. As a die-hard Kung Fu Tea boba fan, I have to say Chi Cha San Chen was really, really good. Since I don't like waiting in line, I tried placing an order online but saw that the store was not accepting online orders. It's likely that online ordering is not available on busier days like on weekends. I did see that the store was accepting online orders one Tuesday afternoon and placed an online order then, but on a Monday afternoon, it wasn't. I'm not certain of the times when online ordering opens up, but I would suggest checking if the option is available. If not, you may just need to go to the store and order in person. Anyway, as my husband and I approached the store, we were relieved to see that there was no line forming out the door, so we went in. Inside, I placed an order for a Bubble Milk Tea and a High Mountain Pouchong Tea and requested boba in both drinks; however, the store had run out of boba. The nice staff member at the counter recommended taro balls as a substitute, which I agreed to. After ordering, we joined the group of people waiting for their drinks to be made. We were informed it was gonna take about 15 minutes for us to get our drinks, which we were prepared to wait for. Considering the horror stories we heard from people who waited 45 minutes to an hour last year, 15 minutes was not bad at all. The teas were served in plastic cups held together by a handle made from twine. This twine handle was Chi Cha San Chen's signature. Before picking it up, make sure the handle is properly balanced on both sides of the cup or it will tip. The teas were super flavorful, more so than Kung Fu Tea. The taro balls were tasty and had a nice chewy consistency to it. Though, after a while, I did get bored of them. There were just too many of them. I definitely recommend the taro balls if you like mochi and can't get enough of it. According to the staff member at the counter, the taro balls are only here for a limited time. My husband and I did come back another time to try the boba, which we thought were just ok. But the teas, though, were definitely top-notch. read more

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Isabel L.

19

196

611

2 years ago

Best boba I've ever had. I had no idea there was a Philly Chinatown chain of Chicha San Chen and I'm so glad I stumbled upon it. The cashier was so friendly and offered free samples of one of their mango teas. I ended up ordering the honey osmanthus oolong tea and it was delicious. Fresh tea is steeped right in front of you for each order and you can taste the difference. Love the string carrier as well, such a cute addition! Can't wait to return. read more

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Kimberly W.

547

791

5152

1 year ago

I visited when they no longer had lines. The first time I visited chicha San Chen I waited an hour and a half. I'm surprised that there's no longer lines at all. There's a few amount of seats in the back if you wanna stay and sit to enjoy your drink I was able to get my drink within five minutes and it was delicious. I got just dong ding tea with bubbles. I just normally get at chicha San Chen and it was as expected. The drink was good. Bubbles were good. Nothing really out of the ordinary or special. They do have their occasional special drinks, but I normally get what I am used to. Maybe next time I'll try one of their special drinks. read more

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James L.

1.0 mi•Logan Square, Art Museum District

310

480

1887

2 years ago

Chicha San Chen is a global franchise of tea shops started in Taiwan around 1998, and two of their claims to fame are: * Winning awards from the International Taste Institute, which apparently is equivalent of a Michelin Star. * The use of their patented "Teapresso" machine which is used to freshly brew concentrated tea and coffee base for the drinks. My relatives in California rave about Chicha San and enjoy posting IG stories or onto other social media sites of them standing in line and waiting for their boba drinks (on occasion for over an hour). Sometimes I wonder if there is a long line for a place, are the services/goods that a business is providing that amazing...or is it just hype? During my recent foodie trip to Philly, I stopped into the Chicha San to decide for myself. True to form, there was a line stretching out the door, and after waiting about 20 minutes to place my order, I was informed that it could be up to 30-40 minutes until my drink was ready, since every beverage is "hand crafted." Thankfully, I only had a 10 minute wait and a table in the shoebox sized seating area opened up for us to take refuge from the January cold. Part of the marketing is the "carrying strap" attached to the cardboard cup holder. Interesting I guess, but in actuality, the string is not very comfortable to hold for long periods as it "digs" into your fingers. I sat near the Teapresso machine, and did indeed watch as batch after batch of tea was brewed into glass beakers, giving off an almost laboratory vibe as if Chicha San is performing alchemy by transforming the humble tea leaf into some type of elixir. As for the beverage, it was alright; nothing special in my estimation. I ordered my usual of Jasmine milk tea, grass jelly, light ice, and 30% sweetness. Tea flavor was more pronounced than at other boba shops, the grass jelly had a nice texture, but surprisingly, the drink was mildly flavored. Which is likely healthier for me, but just keep this in mind if you prefer your drinks on the sweeter side. Would I wait for nearly an hour again at this place? No, since I feel there are other shops which provide an equivalent if not better beverage at a similar price point. Of course, by me uploading this and also including pictures to accompany my review, I'm in a way perpetuating the Chicha San PR machine. Oh the irony... read more

Chicha San Chen - Milk tea with grass jelly - Bubble Tea Near Me - Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

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More info about Chicha San Chen

932 Race St
Philadelphia, PA 19107
Chinatown
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https://pa.chichasanchen.com

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Hours

What time does Chicha San Chen open?

Chicha San Chen opens at 12:00 PM on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Sunday, Friday and Saturday.

What time does Chicha San Chen close?

Chicha San Chen closes at 9:00 PM on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Sunday.Chicha San Chen closes at 9:30 PM on Friday and Saturday.

Mon-Thu, Sun 12:00 PM - 9:00 PMFri-Sat 12:00 PM - 9:30 PM

Indoor Amenities

Does Chicha San Chen allow dogs?

Yes, Chicha San Chen allows dogs.

Outdoor Amenities

Does Chicha San Chen have parking?

Yes, Chicha San Chen has parking options. Validated Parking

Other Amenities

Does Chicha San Chen have free WiFi?

Yes, Chicha San Chen has free WiFi.

More Info

Health Score

Chicha San Chen Reviews in Other Languages

Chinese
1 Review

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4.3(27 reviews)

Twisted Grounds is a quiet little gem tucked away from the main hustle and bustle of the city…read more The employees are really nice and welcoming. Service is quick. It is a very small shop, so there are only a few tables inside, along with a few outside depending on the weather. Although small, the interior is clean and cozy. A single restroom is available. Parking is on the street. Mild noise level. They have a good amount of drink options, including rotating specials, as well as pastries, bread, and misc items like granola and coffee beans. The drinks are delicious - definitely recommend their matcha. The pastries are huge, flavorful, and filling. Slightly dry but I did go right before closing. They have a nice variety of flavors (both sweet and savory), so most palettes will be satisfied. Prices are definitely fair. If I weren't just a traveler passing through, this would easily become a regular spot for me. It's at least on the "must return to" list! 10/10 recommend.

I got a blueberry bliss latte and oh my gosh it was the best blueberry coffee I've had. The milk is…read moreso perfectly sweetened and has a strong blueberry taste. The service was also super kind and answered all my questions I had beforehand. I did wish there was open seating for me either inside or out because I had a long walk but there's only 3 tables inside and a couple out so if you plan on staying maybe come a bit earlier

Inside

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Molly Tea

4.6(73 reviews)

2.2 mi•University City

White Champaca Salted Cheese is really good very crowded…read moreeven at 21:45 the order terminals are worn out and sometimes malfunction

I tried a few drinks here and was pleasantly surprised by how unique and well-balanced they were:…read more Matcha White Champaca Salted Cheese - Starts with a light matcha bitterness, then transitions into a subtle floral camellia note. Refreshing with nice layers. Jasmine Mango smoothie - Sweet mango paired with pomelo bits and a hint of jasmine tea. Super refreshing and not overly sugary--perfect after a meal or on a hot day. Premium Jasmine Apple Milk Tea - Tastes like a cold-brew tea mixed with green apple juice. Very crisp and refreshing, slightly ing apple candy in a fun way. Great if you're not into milky drinks. Jasmine Tea - A pure tea option with a clean jasmine aroma. Smooth, not bitter, and gets better as you sip. Pairs really well with heavier or savory foods.

1.5 mi•Fairmount, Art Museum District

Liberty Bell Satchel

Molly Tea Pink Satchel

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Osmanthus Milk Tea & Snowy Gardenia

Musette

4.4(46 reviews)

Nice neighborhood cafe serving various beverages and some small plates. Has both indoor and outdoor…read moreseating, a few smaller tables for 2-4 people. Peaceful street so is fine to sit outside on a nice day. Shakshuka was very zesty and the egg was cooked nicely on top. Big punch of mixed spice flavor from the tomato. It came with a few oiled crostini breads. Trout salad was very crisp and fresh. Both just the right amount for a tasty lunch. Thanks

the staff was really friendly and i think this is such a cute location. Overall, the food was good…read morebut my chai was not good so maybe I'll go back to try something new!

0.8 mi•Rittenhouse Square

Shakshuka

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Counter

Enswell

4.3(121 reviews)

My family and I got breakfast at Enswell during our stay in Philadelphia. This swanky, hip place…read moreoffers up elevated tasty food and superb service in an exquisitely decorated, albeit small, cafe. We braved negative degree weather for the roughly 10 minute walk from our hotel. We walked in at a good time. This is the type of place where a reservation for breakfast would be required. We were sat immediately. The dining area is tight. A green velvet bench, marble tables, metal chairs, all packed into a small area. You could very well have your butt brush over the table of the patrons next to you if you have to get up for any reason. It's tight. Our server was around quickly. He was super friendly and kept things conversational, light and sophisticated. My wife ordered an iced latte, I had their hot drip coffee. For a starter, we had to try the cinnamon knot bread. While it wasn't what we were expecting, it was good. Although, we wouldn't order again. The bread is presented as a small loaf, room temperature with a cold cream cheese icing drizzled over top. The bread had a mild cinnamon flavor and was dry. It lacked the sweet, moist dough you expect from a cinnamon bread. My wife ordered the French style omelet. This had gruyere cheese and chives. Beautifully plated, perfectly cooked and the taste was spot on. It was good enough to forget that she paid $21 for just an omelet, no meat, no sides. I ordered the Eggs Benedict. Pretty standard here. The eggs had bright orange yolks which is common for farm fresh eggs. The "coffee" hollandaise didn't come across with a coffee flavor but it was rich and went well with the ham and English muffins. One thing that stuck with me was their drip coffee. Not sure if it has been a while since I had a light roast but the Rival Bros. Revolver coffee was so good, I got a bag of whole beans to bring back home with me. I may even order it again online. Enswell succeeded on all fronts. The ambiance and service was great. The decor, impeccable. The food, thoughtful and tasty. The details from the silverware to the plates added to the experience. We would come back.

I thought this place was very cute. Outdoor limited seating…read moreand indoor area as well. The appeal was to get a quick read in amd have my pup with me. I felt like I ordered the wrong combination. I was able to do an egg sandwich and swap for sourdough bread vs eng muffin. Love that. Didn't love the copper sharp cheese that was a bit messy and tangy. I kept thinking they must have added some type of sauce on it. I'd much rather come back for a simple fried egg combo and chedda cheese. I was also offered sparkling water, but I do wish it had more fizz. The service start to finish was superb in friendly and fast service. I'd come back for mimosa/bar for sure.

1.4 mi•Fairmount, Art Museum District

Coffee bar.

Interior

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Dining Room.

Little Pete's Restaurant

4.0(230 reviews)

•$$

I had a temporary place in Fairmount before a move and my wife, kid and I ate here often for a…read moremonth. Never had a bad meal and service was always pleasant and attentive. In my youth spent quite few drunken dollars at old 17thSt. location. Money well spent. Visited last year after 15yrs away and nothing has changed. If you don't like Little Pete's, you are an idiot.

The staff are amazing and service is top notch! Great…read morebreakfast - outdoor seating is way off the street so quiet to traffic. Menu is massive and portions are big!

0.9 mi•Penn Center, Rittenhouse Square

Bar area

Mushroom Barley Soup (comes w/ cheesesteak)

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Cheesesteak Sandwich ($15) comes w/ fries and soup

El Café

4.3(18 reviews)

Coffee drinks are good. Not crowded so service was pretty fast. Ordered the breakfast burrito and…read moredid not realize they are pre-made and sit around under a heat lamp like a 7-11. Meh. Not many seats but a quiet place.

After arriving at Philadelphia Airport and needing a quiet location to begin my day, I discovered…read moreEl Café located within The Mōttō at the Hilton hotel. Each morning, I visited this café during my last visit and enjoying a cup of hot chocolate both times. One of the first things I noticed as I walked into the café was the atmosphere. It felt welcoming! My hot chocolate had the smooth richness and was great to start the morning off. There were plenty of tables to sit at in the morning. The style of the café was great with a modern and clean, yet warm enough to make those early morning hours seem somewhat purposeful, and not as rushed as they could be! If you're looking for breakfast options, it is slightly limited at this café. There were some muffins and baked goods available. My experience with El Café in The Hilton Mōttō was very good overall. I enjoyed the hot chocolate. It was rich, smooth and perfect comfort in the morning on the go. The customer service was also great! They were friendly, helpful and welcoming. Additionally, I thought the prices for their coffee and hot chocolate was reasonable. I'd stop by El Café again if I stay at the Hilton Motto.

1.1 mi•Rittenhouse Square, Penn Center

El Café

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El Café

Alchemy Coffee

4.4(95 reviews)

•$$

Friendly service and good coffee. Alchemy was just down the…read morestreet from our AirBnB, which was very convenient. The coffee was very good and flavorful. We only got black coffees, but the specialties coffees being poured looked great. We tried their breakfast biscuit sandwich was was very impressed. Very flavorful and the biscuit hit the spot without being too bready. Clean and welcoming interior.

First time visiting was a good experience--friendly service and solid drinks…read more Second visit was disappointing and frustrating. On a Sunday at 4:49 pm (just over 10 minutes before their 5:00 pm closing time), I went in to order a matcha and a cappuccino. The cashier immediately said they weren't making any coffee drinks because they were closing soon and needed to clean up/prep. I pointed out that it's a coffee shop that closes at 5, and expecting to serve drinks close to closing seems reasonable. She responded rudely with something like, 'If you don't like it, go to Starbucks.' The attitude was unnecessary and unprofessional--especially since we were there well before closing and just wanted two simple drinks. Won't be returning based on this interaction.

0.8 mi•Logan Square, Penn Center, Art Museum District

Fresh Mint Shakerato

Almond croissant? Kind of pastry

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Counter to order

Commons Café

4.3(7 reviews)

Chicken sausage Breakfast sandwich is great. Grabbed a couple pastries to take with us!read more

Commons Cafe is conveniently located in the lobby of The Logan. It's perfect for grabbing a quick…read morecoffee before venturing out, which is exactly what I did. I had two iced lattes during my stay and the service was quick. I also was able to get soy milk which is my preference but it is not as common as nut milk-alternatives. Although technically not a part of the cafe, the fact that it's located inside the hotel means there's lots of comfortable seating available around the lobby. Rght across from the cafe there's a fantastic lounge area with a pool table and a collection of books. I don't think anyone would use the books in the library and they're mostly decorative, but I did think it was cute. The menu is adorable - it's a giant scroll on the wall and had some Philly-themed artwork. I would go back just to see if they change up the artwork.