I live on the far west side of Phoenix, and it took the promise of a brand-new cheese club to lure me over to Tempe. In this May of 2021, TDO operates by email and curbside pick-up; I found the process to be pleasant and straightforward. I emailed to join the Cheese Board and was sent an invoice I then paid for over Paypal. When I made an additional order for pick-up at the same time, which included a Bar Bites Box and three Stoic Ciders, the process went much the same, and I mentioned when I would be by to get everything. At this time, they are only open Thursday to Saturday from 10am to 2pm.
I arrived there soon after 10am on a Friday. I sent a text message that I was there to pick up and had a reply in about a minute. Another two minutes, and they brought my bags to the table outside their door. Super easy!
Even more, I love what I bought. The first month of the Cheese Board set an incredible standard by featuring a cheesemaker out of Cambria, California, named Stepladder Creamery. The box included four very different cheeses. Along with that was a baggy with almonds and dried apricots, and two house-made items: strawberry jam and Black Pepper & Green Za'atar Crackers. The jam and crackers were excellent paired with the perfectly-ripe Big Sur cheese I cut into that night.
The three ciders were already cold. The Bar Bites Box contained a lot for $8. I didn't get to choose anything, but they chose well for me! It included two Fleur de Sel Caramel Brownies, two Ooey Gooey Blueberry Bars, a cannelle, two pecan bars, and two of some kind of shortbread bar. I haven't tried everything yet! I am making these last, as I figure I won't be making another trek to Tempe until July when I need to get my next Cheese Board box. Tracy Dempsey...
Read moreTDOriginals and ODV Wines, located at 1325 W University Dr, Tempe, AZ, is a gem in the community. Owned by the talented Tracy Dempsey, this delightful bakery offers a unique array of sweet and savory baked goods that are sure to impress. The attention to detail is evident in every item, from the stunning cakes to the creatively flavored treats, such as the amazing brownie with a surprising smidgen of cayenne pepper.
The wine shop is equally impressive, boasting a fantastic selection of local Arizona wines as well as an array of international options. Being a member of their Wine Club for the past four years has been an absolute delight, always offering exciting and unexpected selections.
Tracy Dempsey is not just a talented baker and wine connoisseur; she’s also a dedicated teacher and community supporter. Her classes are always in high demand, reflecting her passion for sharing knowledge. The fact that the Mayor of Tempe proclaimed a Tracy Dempsey Day speaks volumes about her positive impact on the community.
If you haven't yet visited TDOriginals and ODV Wines, I highly encourage you to do so. It’s a wonderful place that never...
Read moreI get my birthday cake from Tracy Dempsey Originals (TDOriginals) every year. Each year, I am sooo happy with the cake! Tbh, I am pretty picky with sweets — namely my dislike of chocolate cake. Tracy has always been creative and given me the best non-chocolate birthday cakes! One year a strawberry lemonade cake amazed me and all my party-goers. This year, I had a couple thoughts of what the cake could include and Tracy came back with including everything I asked for — what a fabulous surprise! The cake was a goat cheese, strawberry, pistachio, buttercream masterpiece!! It was an amazing blend of savory and sweet. One of those cakes you want to eat all at once. TDOriginals is the perfect place for any sweets, but especially for a custom cake! You won’t be disappointed as she always exceeds expectations! The perfect addition to any special day. I know my birthday cake made me feel...
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