Gong cha Opens First Maine Location in South Portland

The new franchise is owned by husband-and-wife team Tafari and Nhi Thomas, who bring two decades of restaurant industry experience to the venture. The couple discovered the brand nearly a decade ago in Boston and pursued the partnership based on the company's established operating model and consistent consumer demand. Geoff Henry, President of Gong cha Americas, noted that the brand’s growth has shifted from major metropolitan hubs to a wider range of markets as consumers increasingly seek premium, personalized beverage options.

To celebrate the Maine debut, the location will host a two-day event starting at 10 a.m. on June 27. The festivities include a ribbon-cutting ceremony, a traditional Lion Dance performance by the Wah May Lion Dance nonprofit, and various giveaways for early arrivals. The brand, which holds the top spot in the tea category on Entrepreneur’s Franchise 500 list for five consecutive years, aims to exceed 500 locations across the Americas by 2028.