It’s time for takeoff with another episode of Arlington Eats inside the command center of Rocketbelly – Rocket Chicken & Self Serve Bubble Tea, where the captain provides a space-tacular adventure.

“To me, Rocketbelly is spreading joy and a great place like hang out and have fun,” said 12-year-old Olivia Huynh, owner of Rocketbelly. “It is a great place to have family time, study, relax, or just have alone time.”

With money she earned from acting and modeling gigs, she wanted to accomplish a new endeavor. 

“My mom taught me about investing and saving up money,” Huynh said. “She wanted to help us with her dream. So, I came up with self-serve bubble tea because I like bubble tea. I don't want people to get mad or waste their money for something they don't like. Also, I'm also a really picky eater, so I made the self-serve sampling process, and that's how I came up with it.”

You can discover this space-themed bubble tea bar that serves up some out of this world chicken combining American flavors with a Japanese technique. 

“Our main dish is tenders and nuggets, and it comes with our signature rocket sauce and fries or a side of your choice, Huynh explained. “I like honey butter fries. That's one of my favorite sides. We have a bunch of different appetizers like wings, riblets, popcorn chicken, and corn. We have close to 40 teas. We can't put all of them out at one time, so currently we have about 14 available.” 

As you enjoying the menu, venture out for the fun game nights here as well as explore the universe Olivia created.

“Rocketbelly is also a name I came up with because I like space and I like cats,” Huynh said. “I told my mom we have to put two of those things together, and we came up with the ‘cat-stronaut.’ It's spacesuit has a rocket a rocket symbol on it. and we're also supposed to be in the belly of a rocket.

While Olivia is living her dream in The American Dream City, she’s still reaching for the stars. 

“I love making friends and stuff, so I greet every single customer and try to leave a smile on everyone's face as they walk out,” she said. “I'm really proud of myself and everything I've done, but I want to add more and stuff. I have plenty of goals up there I need to reach.”

Rocketbelly is located at 100 West Pioneer Parkway Suite 156, in Arlington. For the restaurant hours, visit the restaurant’s Facebook page.