HODGDON, Maine — Randi Farrar recently transitioned from operating her tea and herb shop in downtown Houlton to delivering her specialty boba iced teas after closing the store earlier this year. Following requests from customers who missed her fresh brews, she had her kitchen certified, tested her well water, purchased a 40-slot cup holder, and upgraded her vehicle for deliveries to businesses and residents in Houlton.
The response has been overwhelming, with Farrar now delivering more than 100 iced teas in a single day. Due to the high demand, she has decided to open a drive-thru business in nearby Hodgdon, where she will serve both teas and coffee.
Boba, or bubble tea, is a popular Taiwanese drink made by combining tea with milk, fruit, and tapioca pearls. However, Farrar opts for popping pearls, which burst with flavor when consumed through a straw, enhancing the experience for her customers.
Farrar is in the final stages of preparing Randi’s Corner Perk on Corner Road in Hodgdon, a name inspired by the well-known Central Perk café from the sitcom “Friends.” The drive-thru is set to operate during the fall, winter, and spring months, offering not only her boba and chaga teas but also coffee, cappuccinos, and quick food options such as muffins and hot egg sandwiches. The establishment will feature seating for about 20 patrons, pending final occupancy approval from the fire marshal.
During a recent walkthrough, Farrar shared her vision for the drive-thru layout, which includes an Amish-built structure painted in a striking cobalt blue with white trim. Plans also include a white picket fence along the drive and a weather-resistant outdoor menu board to endure Maine’s winters.
Customers can also find Birch Bark Brews, a chaga tea brand co-owned by Farrar and Alyssa Hutchinson, along with other herbal offerings from her Lotus and Leaf business.
Randi’s Corner Perk is projected to open by Thanksgiving, operating Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. Farrar gauged interest in the drive-thru concept on Facebook and was met with a strong, positive response, particularly from those who prefer staying in their vehicles during the cold winter months.