Boston licensing board issues Common Victualler license to Gong Cha in South Boston
Rule Changes Boston, MA localThe bubble tea chain was already operating under a soft opening at 120-126 Emerson St.
Overview
On November 3, 2026, Boston's Licensing Board issued a Common Victualler license to Gong Cha at 120-126 Emerson St. The license is a new record for an existing business: Gong Cha launched a soft opening at the address on October 31, according to local news.
The license is one of several approvals a food business needs in Boston. It does not indicate the shop newly opened or has completed all requirements. The record shows only that the city issued this particular license.
Why it matters
The license formalizes a regulatory step for a bubble tea shop already serving customers in South Boston.
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Voices
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People Involved
Organizations Involved
Global bubble tea franchise with a new location in South Boston.
Boston's licensing board issues Common Victualler licenses for food service establishments.
Timeline
October 2026 November 2026
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Grand opening celebration scheduled
Upcoming AnnouncementCaught In Southie reports a grand opening celebration is planned for Saturday, November 14.
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Boston issues Common Victualler license to Gong Cha
Latest LicenseLicensing Board record shows a Common Victualler license issued for 120-126 Emerson St.
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Gong Cha launches soft opening in South Boston
BusinessLocal news reports the shop is serving bubble tea, waffles, and ice cream at 120-126 Emerson St.
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Certificate of Occupancy record filed for retail bubble tea space
PermitRecord shows certificate issued 5/22/2026 for 1 retail unit and 6 residential units; declared value $130,000.
Scenarios
Gong Cha holds grand opening celebration on November 14
Discussed by: Caught In Southie
The local news site reported that Gong Cha will host an official grand opening celebration on Saturday, November 14, 2026. The event would mark the formal launch of the shop, which has been in soft opening since late October.