Boba CuCue, a vibrant bubble tea house in Arizona, is quickly becoming a go-to destination for bubble tea enthusiasts, thanks to its unique blend of Hong Kong-inspired drinks and playful charm. Founded by husband-and-wife duo Gary Lo and Vivian Chung, Boba CuCue has transformed from a small boba shop in Gilbert into one of the largest bubble tea franchises in the state in just four years.
The couple launched Boba CuCue during the pandemic, recognizing an increased demand for delightful treats. They have since expanded their presence, opening multiple locations in Tucson, Camp Verde, Marana, Las Vegas, and New Mexico. With a diverse menu featuring vibrant flavors, the shop boasts walls adorned with custom character toys, creating a multi-sensory environment where creativity and deliciousness converge.
Lo and Chung opened their first location at Cooper and Warner Roads in Gilbert in 2020. Despite the challenges posed by the pandemic, they managed to stay afloat. “I kept my mask on and tried to make friends,” Lo recalled, noting that customers were seeking moments of joy during tough times.
Inspired by his childhood in Hong Kong, Lo envisioned a space where people could enjoy authentic tea and milk tea. After moving to Arizona in 2015, he and Chung noticed a void in the local market for genuine boba spots. “There were great boba shops in L.A. and New York, so I thought, why not start one here in metro Phoenix? We know how to make good drinks,” he explained.
The playful name “CuCue” represents Lo’s whimsical interpretation of a baby’s cry for a toy or treat, echoing the joyful atmosphere of their stores.
Boba tea, a Taiwanese beverage originating in the 1980s, combines a tea base, milk or fruit flavors, and chewy tapioca pearls. Among Boba CuCue’s top offerings is the Brown Sugar Milk Tea, made with black Ceylon tea and priced at $5.49. Served in collectible cups, this drink has become a customer favorite.
A new highlight on the menu is the Mango Coco Float, a creamy mango smoothie topped with soft coconut ice cream, mini-sago boba, and pomelo, offering a perfect blend of sweetness and tang.
Adapting their authentic recipes to suit Arizona’s tastes posed challenges. “We brought the original formulas from Hong Kong, but customers weren’t used to them,” Lo admitted. For instance, they initially imported premium matcha from Japan, but it was too bitter for local palates. To cater to Arizonians, they began offering larger, sweeter drinks. The Matcha Milk Tea, featuring a stunning gradient of dark boba pearls, pastel green matcha, and white milk, has become both a visual and flavorful hit, appealing to customers looking for Instagram-worthy beverages.
Another standout is the Taro Milk Tea, a vibrant purple drink that initially raised eyebrows. A concerned customer gave it a one-star review, mistaking its color for something undesirable. Lo took the opportunity to educate him about the authentic ingredients used, ultimately winning over a loyal patron.
To ensure quality, Lo and Chung hand-pick fresh taro from local supermarkets. Their fruit teas are crafted with real fruit, mashed by hand to create flavorful concoctions like the Strawberry Smash Green Tea, which combines strawberries, strawberry jam, cold-brewed green tea, and crystal boba.
In addition to beverages, Boba CuCue features Hong Kong-style street food, including pork, chicken, and vegetable dumplings, as well as steamed baos. The sesame lava buns are particularly recommended for those with a sweet tooth.
The experience is elevated by the presence of adorable character toys displayed throughout the shop and in claw machines. “We manufacture these machines and toys,” Lo explained, showcasing the playful environment.
With a commitment to creativity, the shops introduce new designs monthly, aiming for a total of 100 different designs by 2025.
But beyond the drinks and toys, Lo harbors a larger ambition. “I want our creations to be loved nationwide,” he said. “I hope the community will support us in making boba dining an amazing experience for everyone.”
With its delightful atmosphere, mouthwatering drinks, and charming collectibles, Boba CuCue continues to enchant customers and establish itself as a beloved destination in Arizona’s culinary landscape. This is just the beginning of their exciting journey.
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