In the whimsical world of confections and delights here in Tucson, Cuppa GoGo stands out as a delightful haven for all things sweet and imaginative. Behind this month’s flavors, Banana Cream Pie Latte, Horchata Latte, Piña Colada Slooshie, and the Pickle Lemonade, is the visionary pastry chef, Emery Van Gilder, who sprinkles her magic into every creation.
“Being a pastry chef has shaped the overall product at Cuppa GoGo because I am able to use the techniques learned in the industry, while also not pumping our bodies full of chemicals and stabilizers,” said Van Gilder. “It’s also given me so much freedom and creativity to create products that people truly love and that is the best thing we could possibly do!”
Back in February, Cuppa GoGo celebrated its very first anniversary, which has been a staple at The Pit Tucson, 7889 E 22nd St. With a blend of flavors that pays homage to its roots, Van Gilder found inspiration not only in her own upbringing but also in the cherished memories of her husband’s family.
“Though I grew up in Tucson, which is so rich in culture and foods, I learned how to perfect the flavors we have from my husband and his family, who taught me about the flavors they had when they were young,” she said. “I think really adds to the nostalgia of a lot of our flavors.”
Striving to maintain a strong local connection, the Cuppa GoGo team also goes the extra mile by sourcing Filthy Pirate Coffee Company’s roasts (perfect for those with acid reflux issues) and crafting their very own whipped cream and flavorful syrups.
“Making our syrups from scratch adds a level of quality that can’t be produced by bottled syrups,” said Van Gilder. “We pride ourselves on not pumping our drinks with loads of chemicals and stabilizers, which leaves the final product tasting so delicious and creamy, while also not hurting your insides!”
“Luckily, we have the best team in the world right now,” she said. “We have hired my sisters-in-law and I couldn’t ask for a better team. I am able to teach everyone how to make syrups. We have a great understanding of quality and take our time to ensure the best product comes out. We welcome any feedback — there’s always room to get better.”
Plus, as mentioned earlier, Cuppa GoGo releases multiple “Flavors of the Month” and this month folks have had the pleasure of downing flavors like Banana Cream Pie Latte, Horchata Latte, Piña Colada Slooshie, and the Pickle Lemonade. Also, they’re always open to suggestions so if you’ve got a flavor in mind, chances are they’ll be able to create it.
“Each month when there are new drinks to try, we are always anxiously waiting to hear everyone’s feedback because we genuinely love every drink we create,” said Van Gilder. “Especially if it gets the community out of their comfort zones, like with the Pickle Lemonade or the Banana Cream Latte! We want to create a drink for everyone.”
With every handcrafted and imaginative flavor, Cuppa GoGo isn’t just a place to indulge in treats, but a place where hearts are filled with joy and taste buds dance with delight.
For more information and to keep up with the latest, visit cuppagogo.com and follow Cuppa GoGo on Facebook and Instagram.
Article written by:
Matt Sterner
More about MattAt a very young age, Matt Sterner was gifted with the artistic ability to masterfully roll a burrito to the highest of standards, but the wrapped medley of delicious innards wasn’t his first love. Matt’s first true love was a combination of reading, writing, and creating. He grew up reading comics, the ingredients list of his shampoo and conditioner bottles, choose-your-own-adventure books, and the Scrabble dictionary — something he found useful when challenging his grandmother to a game.
He attended college at New Mexico State University and graduated with a degree in Digital Filmmaking. One of his favorite classes was screenwriting because he became responsible for the story’s birth before it came to life on-screen. After school, Matt took on numerous positions at a local television station in Tucson. From dealing out stories about heartbreak to producing “fluffier” content for a lifestyle broadcast, he learned what it takes to adapt to the many emotions the world of media can stir. Since 2017, Matt has dabbled in the culinary world of Tucson as well as San Diego, California from time to time.
If you’re in the mood for strange stories, head over to his pride and joy, wonkytimes.com. And in case you’re curious — yes, after all of this time, he still manages to roll a killer burrito.
