Moon Garden, a boba tea destination located in the Pythian Market, 234 Loyola Ave., opened in August. The spot is one of the first dedicated boba tea spots in Orleans parish.

Raymond Curry, the owner of Moon Garden, was born and raised in New Orleans. He graduated from the Xavier University College of Pharmacy in 2018 and worked as a pharmacist before opening Moon Garden as a side project.

“For my first pharmacy job, I moved to Alexandria,” he said. “It was a culture shock, and there wasn’t much to do. So, I sought out new food experiences and discovered boba tea. I had never had it before, but I loved it.”

Curry wants to move away from his pharmaceutical pursuits and explore the food business full time. He said that Moon Garden is his first step in working in the food industry, learning what works and what doesn’t. He started with boba tea because he thought it would be an easy business model, and it’s something that he’s become passionate about.

Curry has been serving his boba tea at the Pythian Market, but the market recently underwent a management change. 

Jackie Dadakis, Green Coast executive and Pythian market co-owner, said that, because of Covid-19, the rent for the building had fallen behind on payments totaling $2.5 million in back rent. According to WDSU, Green Coast executives and Pythian market co-owners say ERG Enterprises doesn’t intend to shut down the food hall or evict the ten vendors operating at the market.

Curry said that Moon Garden plans to remain at Pythian Market despite the recent management changes.

He said, “Originally, I was under the impression that I would have to move out, but we’re allowed to stay there for now. However, I do want to get a second location because I would like to have more space. I’m banking on the next location being in the Tremé area.”

Moon Garden boba tea comes in various flavors, such as Mango, Vanilla, Strawberry, Avocado, and Coconut. Curry said the most popular flavors are Taro, Thai Tea, and Lavender Oat. The shop also does a “boozy boba” in which alcohol can be added to your favorite boba tea.

For snacks, Moon Garden has a selection of sandwiches and seasonal charcuterie boards made in-house. Curry has plans to expand the menu when he opens Moon Garden’s second location. 

Moon Garden is open Tuesday through Saturday, 11:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.