AI CHA offers a casual boba tea experience in Isla Vista, focusing on Taiwanese-style milk teas, fruit teas, and comfort beverages. Despite some service and consistency issues reported, the shop boasts a dedicated local clientele and convenient ordering kiosks.
What to Expect:
🧋 Variety of milk teas, fruit teas, and specialty boba drinks
🍡 Unique offerings like mochi taro boba
🏠 Casual, locally popular atmosphere
⚡ Self-order kiosks with quick service
Important Information:
Currently temporarily closed
Wheelchair accessible entrance, parking, restrooms, and seating
Offers dine-in, takeout, delivery, and curbside pickup
Credit and debit cards accepted; no table reservations
Haley's Pick 🍽️
You probably know her as @milehighandhungry. Each week, Haley shares the one place she’s obsessed with right now. From hidden gems to hot new openings, if she picks it, it’s worth the hype.
Haley's Review of Riot BBQ
Riot BBQ on South Delaware feels like a backyard cookout run by a Top Chef, because it is. Chef Manny Barella and pitmaster Patrick Klaiber have teamed up to blend Monterrey flavors with Texas-style smoke, and the results are seriously craveable.
The brisket steals the show: tender, deeply smoky, and finished with Barella’s bold spice rub. Get it solo or wrapped in buttery Raquelita tortillas. The pulled pork brings heat with ancho, guajillo, and morita chiles, and the al pastor ribs are sticky, sweet, and slightly charred in all the right ways.
Even the sides are insanely good! Think crunchy pepita-macha slaw and banana pudding served in a jar that tastes just like childhood (but better). Every bite feels intentional.
It’s barbecue with heart, history, and just the right amount of heat. Riot BBQ isn’t just a meal, it’s a moment worth lining up for.
– Haley @milehighandhungry
📍 Local Insights
🧋 Customize Sweetness: Ordering with 100% sweetness is recommended except for mochi taro boba which is better at 70% to avoid overpowering sweetness.
📱 Kiosk Ordering: All orders are placed via self-service kiosks, so be prepared for minimal staff interaction.
🍡 Unique Flavors: Mochi taro boba offers a distinctive texture but can be grainy—ideal for adventurous drinkers.
🐾 Mixed Experiences: Some guests report unfriendly staff and service refusals; best to visit during busy and fully staffed times.
Review Sentiment
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Based on the 50 most recent Google reviews
AI CHA is praised for authentic milk teas and cute cups with friendly service, attracting many local fans. However, frequent complaints highlight inconsistent drink quality, especially spoiled milk and overly clumpy boba. Some reviewers mention poor service experiences including unavailability during advertised hours.
Last updated on
January 9th, 2026
From The preserve
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The Selection
Accommodations
Course Stats
Angler’s Offerings
What You'll Find
Classic Milk Tea, Brown Sugar Boba Tea, Thai Tea, Fruit Tea, Mochi Taro Boba, Tiramisu Milk Tea, Cheese Dew Smoothies, Avocado Mango Smoothie
Accessibility
Wheelchair accessible entrance, parking, restrooms, and seating available, ensuring comfort for guests with mobility needs.
