If you’re hunting for a fresh, budget-friendly spot in Lagos that delivers authentic Taiwanese-style bubble tea (boba), flaky pastries, and serious Instagram-worthy vibes, Thompson 23 (full name: Thompson 23 Taiwan Bubble Tea & Bakery) is the viral newcomer everyone’s talking about. Opened in late 2025, it quickly became one of Ikoyi’s most hyped spots for its surprisingly low prices in an upscale area, huge portions, and cosy setup. Perfect for morning coffee runs, afternoon treats, sweet dates, or casual hangs.
Here’s the complete guide for first-timers. Let’s gooo..
Location and Address
Thompson 23 is located in the heart of Ikoyi, making it super accessible on the Island. Exact address: No. 23 Thompson Avenue, Ikoyi, Lagos, Nigeria (opposite the British Council). It’s easy to find via Google Maps. Just search “Thompson 23 Ikoyi” or “23 Thompson Avenue.” Street parking is available nearby, and it’s a quick drive from areas like Bourdillon or Glover Road.
Operating Hours
Open Tuesday to Sunday from 7:30 AM to 7:30 PM. Closed on Mondays.
This daytime-to-early-evening schedule makes it ideal for breakfast, brunch, lunch treats, or post-work pick-me-ups—great for Lagos’ busy weekdays and weekends.
Aesthetics and Ambiance
Reviewers rave about the pretty, spacious, and aesthetic interior; think modern Taiwanese café vibes with clean lines, soft lighting, plenty of seating, and an inviting setup that feels photogenic from every angle. It’s described as “beautiful,” “pretty spot,” and “aesthetically pleasing” with a relaxed yet trendy atmosphere.
The self-service pastry display adds a fun, interactive element (grab what you like), though some note hygiene concerns with open access all day. It can get crowded (especially on weekends or peak hype times), with long waits reported during its viral phase, but the vibe is welcoming and lively, perfect for photos, dates, or chilling with friends.
Concept and Specialty
It’s Lagos’ go-to for authentic Taiwanese bubble tea paired with a bakery/pastry selection. The focus is on refreshing, not overly sweet boba drinks (with chewy pearls/jelly) and fresh-baked treats. Portions are generous. Many say drinks are so large you can’t finish them! It’s positioned as an affordable alternative in pricey Ikoyi, often called one of the “cheapest date spots” or “best value bubble tea in Lagos.”
Menu Highlights
- Bubble Tea/Boba: Signature drinks like Bubble Earl Grey Milk Tea, Bubble Oolong Milk Tea, Passion Fruit Tea with Coconut Jelly, Coconut Flavor Bubble Milk Drink. Options include milk teas, fruit teas, and customizations (less sweet preferred by some).
- Pastries & Bakery: Croissants, Donuts, Plain Muffins, Red Velvet with Cream Cheese Frosting, and more unique/interesting options. Self-serve style for grabbing fresh (or sometimes day-old) items.
- Other: Coffee, light bites—mostly focused on tea + sweets.
Drinks are refreshing and authentic (not too sweet), and pastries vary in freshness but offer variety.
Prices and Budget
One of the biggest appeals: super affordable for Ikoyi, often praised as a “steal” with no heavy “Island tax.”
- Bubble tea: Starts from ₦1,500 (basic) to ₦3,000 (popular flavored/large ones like Earl Grey or Oolong).
- Pastries: Donut ₦1,500, Plain Muffin ₦2,000, Croissant ₦2,300, Red Velvet Cream Cheese ₦4,500.
- Recommended spend: ₦2,500–₦5,000+ per person (enough for a drink + pastry or two; huge portions make it feel like great value).
It’s budget-friendly for dates, quick treats, or groups—reviewers love the accessibility compared to pricier spots.
What Visitors Say
- Pros: 10/10 ambience and tea quality for many, huge portions, refreshing flavours, great value, pretty for photos, and good customer service. Viral for a reason (wink)- authentic boba in Lagos!
- Tips for first-timers: Go early to avoid crowds/long waits. Try less-sweet options if you prefer a balanced taste, or go for coconut or fruit-based if you want something refreshing.
- Notes/Cons: Pastries sometimes are not super fresh (due to self-service display), can be crowded/busy, occasional long lines for drinks. Overall ratings are high; definitely worth it for bubble tea lovers.
Contact and Socials
- Instagram handle: @thompson23_taiwan_bubble_tea (active for menu updates, reels, and vibes—check for latest specials).
- Phone: +234 912 149 5073
- Email: 23thompson.csr@gmail.com
Next time you’re on the Island and need something fun, flavorful, and feel-good, head to Thompson 23, Lagos’s affordable bubble tea spot that’s worth every sip and bite.
Have you tried it yet, or is it next on your list?
Drop your thoughts (or your go-to order) in the comments and follow @plazzaahq for more!
