Dirty soda is a broad term describing a customizable drink that combines carbonated pop with various flavors of creams, syrups, and fruit purees. Originating in Utah, these unique and diverse beverages have expanded their popularity and are now a nationwide trend.
Although dirty sodas have been a ‘Utah mom staple’ for 15 years, they have only recently arrived in South Dakota, with the construction of Sodak Soda, which opened in the summer of 2022. The menu features a combination of flavor suggestions and signature drinks, as well as offering a create-your-own option.
A few bestsellers include: “Peachy Keen”, The OG”, and “Sweetheart”. “Peachy Keen” consists of Dr. Pepper, peach syrup, and vanilla cream. I enjoyed this drink for its blend of refreshing fruit and smooth cream, which contributed to the pop’s thicker consistency. “The OG” includes Diet Coke, coconut syrup, and a fresh lime. Additionally, I was a fan of “The OG” due to its seamless blend of the fresh and sour taste of lime with the sweet coconut flavor. This tropical drink transports you right to a beach vacation. The only elevated soda I tried that I disliked was the “Sweetheart”, which is composed of Fanta, strawberry puree, and pineapple syrup. The seeds in the puree provided an unnecessary crunch, and the flavor combination, as well as the sharp aftertaste, was not my favorite.
I love trying new and unique beverages, especially if they are fizzy, so I was very excited to review the popular Sodak Soda. On social media, I’ve seen videos of people in Utah buying dirty sodas from restaurants, such as “Swig,” and I have always wanted to try the viral elevated carbonated drinks. Many others have had the same thought processes as I, wanting to experience and determine if dirty soda is really worth the hype. This has contributed to the beverages’ increasing popularity and diffusion across the nation.
If you are like me and cannot go a day without a fun drink, then you will love Sodak Soda. There are endless options, so you are sure to find a refreshment that you will enjoy. What started as a creative daily treat, incorporated by Utah suburban moms, has now become a nationwide sensation. Similar restaurants, such as Swig, have also gained popularity; however, these shops have not yet expanded beyond the Southwest region of the US. Although “Swig” in particular has not reached other areas of the country, similar stores have opened in these places, such as Sodak Soda. My tasting of Sodak Soda was exceedingly positive, due to its numerous options and harmonious flavors that are sure to leave you satisfied.
