inspiration
The idea of Topo was born with big dreams of the open road and a fascination with roadside architecture. Shaped largely by the development of the automobile and major highways, business owners evolved their establishments into iconic and eye catching buildings with succinct personality and flare. Typically, these structures were characterized by larger than life objects or animals, take for instance the “Bulldog Cafe” as seen in the hit movie The Rocketeer. With years of planning, miles of road trips, and piles of research, Joe Johnston held on to the idea of one day creating his own one-of-a-kind, Route 66 inspired landmark for all to visit in his hometown.
ideas to sketches
Joe Johnston had always been intrigued by the history and charm of American roadside architecture and the thought that people would drive from miles away just to see a building. After creating successful restaurants throughout the Gilbert area, it was finally time to turn ideas into reality. Growing up on a farm, Joe wanted to include ties to his heritage and personal upbringing. Topo, spanish for gopher, was born through his personal experiences tending crops on the family farm. His altercations with these rodents became the iconic imagery to be used as the driving force of the building design. Colors, materials, swatches, and Inspiration were pulled from Southwestern art as well as the Sonoran Desert, the land in which Topo would call home.
Building Topo
Construction for this unique piece of architecture began in multiple pieces and locations across Arizona. To build suspense, the Black Box project was formed to conceal the work of the contractors and builders. This structure became the shell and housing of the restaurant operation, inspired by Southwestern buildings, colorful tiles, vintage shades, and lush landscaping. While the secret operation was underway, a different feat of engineering was taking place down south in Tucson, Arizona. Skilled craftsmen and artists were tasked with creating a larger than life gopher, not something you see everyday. Made out of concrete and standing 4ft tall, the Topo was built with quality, care, and attention to detail. Upon the night of the great reveal, a crane propped Topo on top of his forever home 12ft off the ground, staring out at the iconic Gilbert water tower.
TOPO TODAY
Visited daily by locals and roadtrippers alike, this quaint food stand serves simple, yet delicious, grab-n-go style burritos, street corn, and soft serve with equally unique dipping options. Topo sits among the eclectic lights and attractions of the bustling Downtown Gilbert scene, adding to its charm and food-centric nightlife. Visit Topo today, follow along on Instagram, or commemorate your trip with a one-of-a-kind souvenir. We hope to see you soon.
