Bubble Republic, San Gabriel

If the Bubble Republic were a country, its currency would be tea: bubble tea, that is. Instead, it's a cafe, so the sweet, tapioca-filled drink is simply sipped by customers as they take a seat in the cafe's open, airy interior. When the weather is cold, guests can also opt for more traditional beverages such as hot, bubble-free tea, which can be served in-house or taken to go. While guests drink, they can order up a plate of salty foods, including fries, popcorn chicken, and Asian-style rice and noodle dishes.