For years, Pau, 32, and Shaunte, 30, Stovall were simply regular customers at ICTea (pronounced eye-see-tea), stopping in for fruit teas and smoothies that fit their dairy-free lifestyle. Today, the Wichita couple are the owners of the North Rock Road boba tea shop, continuing a business that already had a strong reputation while adding their own vision for community connection.
A Local Favorite With a Strong Foundation
ICTea, located at 3300 N. Rock Road, Suite A3, specializes in boba tea, fruit teas, smoothies, slushes and coffee drinks. The shop originally opened in 2016 under previous ownership and developed a loyal following for its quality drinks, clean environment, friendly customer service and its extensive variety of customizable options.
“That was just kind of our spot to be,” Paul Stovall said, recalling their years as customers. “We’re both lactose free and dairy free, and this was a place where we didn’t have to worry about getting sick.”
An Unexpected Opportunity to Step in
In July 2024, the previous owner announced plans to close the shop if a buyer could not be found. When Shauntel learned the business might shut down, she contacted Paul to talk through whether purchasing the shop was even possible. Shauntel had long been interested in owning a coffee-related business, and ICTea began to stand out as an opportunity that felt both familiar and realistic.
The Stovalls officially took over ICTea in August 2024, with less than a month of downtime between the previous owner’s closure and their reopening — a quick turnaround made possible by purchasing an already established operation.
Keeping Continuity With Staff And Customers
Rather than starting from scratch, the Stovalls rehired the existing staff, leaning on their experience to ensure continuity for customers.
“Without them, the transition from not owning a business to owning a fully developed one would have been impossible,” Shauntel said.
Paul’s background in business studies and Shauntel’s experience managing people helped smooth the learning curve. Shauntel said one of the most rewarding parts of ownership has been building relationships with employees and seeing their passion for the drinks they make.
What Is Boba Tea — and Why ICTea Stands Out
ICTea’s menu centers on boba tea, also known as bubble tea — a sweet, customizable drink that originated in Taiwan and is commonly found at Asian tea shops and restaurants. Boba tea typically includes a tea or fruit base, optional milk or dairy-free alternatives, and chewy tapioca pearls added to the bottom of the drink for texture.
In addition to boba tea, ICTea offers a wide range of flavored green teas, milk teas, smoothies, slushes, chai teas and coffees. For customers who prefer warm drinks during colder months, the shop also serves hot coffee options.
A Casual, Family-Friendly Gathering Space
The restaurant features casual dine-in seating and positions itself as a family-friendly space where customers can relax and spend time together. ICTea offers a loyalty program for frequent customers and regularly brings in special events such as karaoke nights, trivia, and live entertainment.
Specials of the day and upcoming events are typically shared on the shop’s social media pages, including its Facebook page at facebook.com/TheICTea.
The alcohol-free environment makes the shop a welcoming option for families and customers of all ages.
Service Beyond the Shop
Both Paul and Shauntel also serve in the Army National Guard, a commitment they say reflects their shared value of service and community involvement.
Paul’s mother, Stephanie Stovall, said his work ethic and dedication to community were shaped by his late father, Carl Stovall.
“He’s always been willing to take on challenges,” she said.
Stephanie said she was supportive when she learned the couple were considering buying ICTea, even though she wasn’t familiar with boba tea at the time. After trying the drinks herself, she quickly understood the appeal.
Looking Ahead
ICTea is open seven days a week, with longer hours during the summer months and shorter hours in the winter. For the Stovalls, maintaining the shop’s reputation for quality while expanding its role as a welcoming, community-centered gathering place remains the priority.
“We were very thankful the opportunity came to us,” Shauntel said. “It felt like the right time, and we wanted to keep this place available for the community.”
