The Alley
707 E 6th St, Tempe, AZ
Crema's Take
“Nestled in the heart of ASU's campus, this charming boba and tea shop delivers serious flavor without the serious price tag, especially when you're ordering their standout matcha drinks with real fruit compote and complimentary oat milk upgrades. Beyond the traditional boba selection, they're equally beloved for unexpected savory hits like their crispy, perfectly-spiced popcorn chicken with sweet chili sauce, making it the rare spot that satisfies both sweet and savory cravings in one visit. The vibe is laid-back and inviting—exactly what you want when escaping Arizona's heat—and their team keeps things running with impressive efficiency despite the constant student traffic.”
What to expect
Google Reviews
Get the popcorn chicken!! It’s so good: delightfully crispy, perfectly marinated, and the spiciness is just right. I love getting the sweet chilli sauce with it, it balances out the heaviness of the fried chicken wonderfully.
Clean, efficient and focused boba shop in the heart of ASU. SML on deck is spot on with potently bloomed bright matcha, oat milk substitute without an up charge! and real strawberry compote jam. They all come together for an upscale SML for the student masses. They also serve snacks and light meals to accompany the boba. The popcorn chicken is a good localized version and tasty. Solid experience. SML on deck
Atmosphere is chilling and I didn’t expect anything less since it is located in the heart of ASU campus. Price is very decent and reasonable for this location. I got 2 drinks and a fries. They were pleasant nothing too crazy or standing out.
The Alley Tempe is a charming little spot that offers a refreshing escape from the Arizona heat. This small and cute establishment specializes in boba, tea, desserts, and some light food options—perfect for a quick bite or a sweet treat. What really sets The Alley apart is its inviting atmosphere. The interior is thoughtfully decorated with plenty of greenery, warm lights, and upbeat music that creates a cozy, welcoming vibe. It's the kind of place where you can easily relax—whether you're studying, catching up with friends, or just enjoying a peaceful moment to yourself. The boba drinks are consistently well-made, with just the right amount of sweetness and perfectly chewy pearls. Their desserts are delightful, and the light food options add variety without feeling heavy—ideal for a midday refreshment. Overall, The Alley Tempe is a cozy and stylish hangout with quality drinks and a relaxed ambiance. A must-visit for anyone looking to unwind and cool off in a comfortable, aesthetically pleasing space.
I ordered the No. 4 Lychee Green Tea, and it was super refreshing — packed with real lychee fruit pieces! My friend got one of their milk tea drinks, and it was also really tasty. The flavors were strong but well-balanced, and everything was made fresh. Great spot if you're looking for quality bubble tea and fruity drinks!
Crema Reviews
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