Comebuytea, Melbourne Central
Hidden within the lower ground floor of Melbourne Central, Comebuytea brings the energy of Taiwan’s tea culture into the city with a focus on freshness, strong brews, and a surprisingly transparent approach: vast columns of steeping tea line the counter, and their signature tea-espresso machines churn out made-to-order drinks with a level of precision uncommon in most bubble tea shops. It’s a casual stop for commuters, students, and anyone moving through the station walkway, but the commitment to flavour here is more serious than it appears.
The menu is intentionally streamlined, built around fresh-brewed bases rather than powders. Black tea, jasmine, roasted oolong, and fruit teas form the core, each brewed strong enough to carry through milk, sugar, or toppings. For many regulars, the difference is immediate: the tea flavour is full and pronounced, never drowned out by sweetness — though some guests still find certain drinks on the sweeter side, even with reduced sugar.
Signature items have earned a loyal following. The brown sugar boba is creamy and rich, its pearls soft and warm, with a sweetness that lands just before indulgent. Grapefruit green tea is one of the brightest offerings, citrusy but not artificial, sharp enough to refresh without losing the depth of the green tea beneath. For something more comforting, the evaporated milk roasted tea leans creamy and toasty, a nostalgic combination reminiscent of Hong Kong-style milk teas.
Service is consistently friendly, even when the shop is understaffed and the queue builds up. Guests note the kindness and patience of the team — a trait that stands out among the quick-service bustle of Melbourne Central. The space itself is small, more of a passing-through spot than a place to linger, but the atmosphere remains clean, warm, and welcoming for anyone grabbing a drink between trains or errands.
Comebuytea continues to attract bubble tea enthusiasts because it treats tea like the star of the cup — brewed strong, layered with texture, and offered with enough variation to satisfy both traditionalists and fruit-tea lovers alike.
What People Say Most Often
Tea flavour is strong, fresh, and noticeably brewed
Brown sugar boba and grapefruit green tea are top favourites
Staff are exceptionally friendly and personable
Machines and brewing setup look impressive and add to the experience
Minimalistic menu helps avoid decision fatigue
Some drinks can taste overly sweet even at reduced sugar levels
Toppings occasionally vary in texture
Shop can be understaffed during peak hours
Convenient location but limited seating
Pricing is similar to other bubble tea chains
Editorial Snapshot
Overview
A Taiwanese bubble tea brand known for fresh brewing, strong tea bases, and a signature tea-espresso system. Located in Melbourne Central, it offers a quick and reliable stop for high-quality milk teas, fruit teas, and toppings.
The Experience
Tea is brewed visibly in large glass cylinders, creating a sense of transparency and craft. Staff are warm and efficient. Drinks arrive quickly but retain the depth of traditional brewing.
Signature Teas to Try
Brown Sugar Boba Milk Tea
Creamy, caramel-like sweetness with soft, warm pearls.
Grapefruit Green Tea
Bright, refreshing citrus with clean green-tea clarity.
Evaporated Milk Roasted Tea
Toasty, creamy, and comforting with a strong roasted note.
Osmanthus Oolong Tea
Lightly floral and smooth, ideal with aloe vera.
Pineapple Jasmine Tea
A tropical variation with gentle jasmine fragrance.
Why People Love It
Freshly brewed tea, friendly staff, unique brewing machines, and reliable flavours make it one of the more consistent bubble tea experiences in the CBD.
Good to Know
• Sugar levels can be customised
• Toppings vary in portion size
• Limited seating available
• May be understaffed during busy periods
• Located inside Melbourne Central (LG level)
Where to Find It
Melbourne Central, LG 32 Swanston Street
Melbourne VIC 3000
https://comebuytea.com.au/
+61 3 9576 1788