Bobazona, the locally-owned and operated boba and gelato concept by Youssef Bastawy, will join the forthcoming Sunrise Market development, located on the southeast corner of Village Street and Sunrise Lane, with construction slated to wrap up next January, as first reported by the Phoenix Business Journal.
“Bobazona has been an incredible experience so far. The overwhelming support and love we’ve received from the community is unmatched,” Bastawy tells What Now Phoenix. “From the moment we opened our doors, it’s been rewarding to witness the smiles on their faces as they try our unique boba drinks, gelato, and experience the cozy atmosphere we’ve created.”
Bobazona’s flagship location opened in Goodyear in 2020, followed by Peoria outposts at P83 and Lake Pleasant two years later. Meanwhile, a franchised Tempe spot opened just a few days ago, on July 1, with Tucson and Laveen opening later this year.
Its name is a portmanteau, borne of an “epiphany” that the Bastawy family “likes two things a lot” – Boba and Arizona. As such, they “decided it was time to pursue our own dreams and start something special,” and thus embarked on a “mission to provide great tasting drinks that you want to tell all your friends about,” as the brand writes on its website.
It’s a sentiment Bastawy echoes, saying, “The community has shown tremendous support by spreading the word about our new locations, bringing their friends and families to try our drinks, and even leaving awesome reviews online. Their enthusiasm and encouragement have been the driving force behind our success.”
Bastawy goes on to say, “Expanding our boba shop has been more than just a business venture; it has become a way to connect with people. Witnessing the shop become a gathering place for friends, families, and even strangers who soon become friends, is truly heartwarming. The support we’ve received has not only boosted our confidence, but also reinforced our commitment to providing exceptional boba drinks, gelato, and a welcoming space for everyone.”
The menu at Bobazona is a formidable line-up of nearly 70 refreshing beverages ranging from flavored teas and milk teas to slushies, snows, energy drinks, and coffees. In an interview with What Now Phoenix published April 2022, Bastawy said that the Black Sugar Latte, Guava Jasmine Tea, and Mango Prickly Pear Refresher are all must-tries at their shop, adding, “but really any of our drinks are certified crowd pleasers.”
“As we continue this journey, we are excited to see how Bobazona will continue to grow and evolve with the community,” Bastawy says of the Buckeye expansion. “The experience has been a beautiful reminder of the power of connection, and we are grateful for the opportunity to serve and be a part of this amazing community!”
