Refreshing Beverages at Open Rice Kitchen in Davis, CA
At Open Rice Kitchen in Davis, CA, it’s not just about the delicious food—it’s also about the refreshing beverages that perfectly complement the flavorful dishes. From bubble tea to traditional Asian drinks, the drink menu is diverse and designed to enhance your dining experience. Whether you’re looking for a sweet treat, a refreshing thirst-quencher, or something with a little more flair, Open Rice Kitchen has you covered.
1. Bubble Tea – A Sweet, Chewy Delight
Bubble tea, also known as boba tea, is one of the most popular drink choices at Open Rice Kitchen. This iconic Taiwanese beverage features a blend of tea, milk, and chewy tapioca pearls, with a variety of flavors to suit every palate. Choose from traditional favorites like taro, jasmine, or matcha, or go for something more adventurous like brown sugar or mango.
Why It’s Popular:
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Customizable sweetness and ice levels to suit your preference
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Fun, chewy texture from the tapioca pearls
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A refreshing, creamy drink that pairs perfectly with any meal
Perfect Pairing: The Bubble Tea pairs well with crispy chicken dishes or stir-fries. It’s also a great treat to enjoy on its own!
2. Iced Milk Tea – Classic and Creamy
For those who prefer a more straightforward tea experience, Iced Milk Tea is a staple. It combines a strong black tea base with sweetened milk, offering a creamy, refreshing taste. The iced version is perfect for hot days when you need something cool and revitalizing.
Why It’s Popular:
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Creamy, balanced flavor with a touch of sweetness
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Versatile—choose from a variety of flavors like classic, honeydew, or lychee
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The perfect thirst-quencher to complement spicy dishes
Perfect Pairing: Iced Milk Tea pairs excellently with spicy dishes like Kung Pao Chicken or Sichuan-style noodles, as it helps balance out the heat.
3. Fresh Fruit Teas – A Light and Fruity Option
If you’re looking for something lighter and more refreshing, the Fresh Fruit Teas are a great choice. Made with real fruit and a base of green or black tea, these beverages are both healthy and flavorful. Options like passion fruit, peach, and lemon are perfect for those who want a fruity, slightly tart drink without the heaviness of milk.
Why It’s Popular:
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Real fruit flavors provide a natural sweetness
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Light and refreshing, perfect for summer
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Offers a more natural, fresh taste compared to traditional sweet drinks
Perfect Pairing: Fresh fruit teas are great with lighter dishes like vegetable stir-fry or kimchi fried rice, adding a fresh burst of flavor.
4. Thai Iced Tea – Sweet, Strong, and Creamy
For fans of bold flavors, Thai Iced Tea is a must-try. This sweet, spiced tea is brewed with a variety of herbs and spices, including star anise and cardamom, and then combined with sweetened condensed milk to create a creamy, flavorful drink. It’s a true indulgence for those who love rich, aromatic teas.
Why It’s Popular:
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Rich and aromatic with a hint of spice
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Sweet and creamy with the perfect balance of tea flavor
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A unique and flavorful alternative to traditional iced teas
Perfect Pairing: Thai Iced Tea pairs beautifully with dishes like Pad Thai or orange chicken, complementing their bold flavors with its own distinctive taste.
5. Hot Tea – Traditional and Calming
For those who prefer a more traditional experience, Open Rice Kitchen offers a selection of hot teas. Choose from classics like Jasmine Tea, Oolong, or Green Tea. These teas are brewed to perfection and offer a calming, light, and aromatic flavor that enhances the dining experience without overwhelming the palate.
Why It’s Popular:
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A comforting, warm beverage to enjoy with any meal
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A great option for those seeking a lighter, non-sweet drink
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The perfect choice to accompany a leisurely meal
Perfect Pairing: Hot tea pairs well with lighter dishes such as dumplings, sushi, or broccoli stir-fry, allowing you to appreciate the flavors of the meal in a more subtle way.
6. Ice-Filtered Water & Soft Drinks – Simple Refreshment
For those looking for a simple yet satisfying refreshment, Open Rice Kitchen also offers ice-filtered water and a selection of soft drinks like Coke, Sprite, and Diet Coke. While not as exotic as the other beverages, these classic drinks can still be the perfect companion to your meal.
Why It’s Popular:
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Refreshing and simple
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Available for those who prefer a traditional drink option
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Great for hydrating after a spicy or rich dish
Perfect Pairing: Soft drinks and water are great for balancing out the rich, heavy sauces in dishes like General Tso’s Chicken or beef stir-fry.
7. Freshly Squeezed Lemonade – Tart and Sweet
Freshly Squeezed Lemonade is a popular choice for anyone craving a tangy, refreshing drink. Made with freshly squeezed lemons, sugar, and water, this drink offers the perfect balance of tartness and sweetness. It’s a great way to cool down on a warm day and cleanse your palate between courses.
Why It’s Popular:
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Sweet and tangy with a fresh, natural flavor
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A refreshing option that’s perfect for hot days
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A great balance of sweetness and citrus
Perfect Pairing: Lemonade pairs wonderfully with fried or grilled dishes, such as fried rice or grilled chicken, cutting through the richness of the food.