A dirty soda, also known as a soda shop or soda parlor drink, is a popular non-alcoholic beverage originating from Utah. Dirty sodas contain soda water, flavored syrup, and creamy mixtures like milk, sweet cream, or ice cream. They first emerged in the early 2000s and have since exploded in popularity across Utah, with numerous soda shops dedicated to serving creative blended sodas.
What are the origins of dirty sodas?
The exact origins of dirty sodas are debated, but most credit Sodalicious in Salt Lake City as the first soda shop to popularize them in the early 2000s. The owners experimented with mixing sodas, syrups, milks, creams, and ice cream to create thick, creamy soda fusions. As these sodas grew in popularity, more specialty soda shops opened across Utah to offer their own takes on blended soda drinks.
The term “dirty soda” likely emerged from the fact that these sodas contained extra ingredients like cream that made them thicker and “dirtier” than regular soda. The indulgent drinks were especially popular among Utah’s large Mormon population, as they offered a unique non-alcoholic beverage option.
What are some popular dirty soda flavors?
While recipes vary between soda shops, some of the most popular dirty soda flavors include:
- Coke or Diet Coke with coconut, milk, and hazelnut
- Dr Pepper with vanilla and cream
- Mountain Dew with raspberry and sweet cream
- Root beer with vanilla ice cream
- Cream soda with caramel and milk
Shops also often offer customized combinations where customers can select their soda base, flavored syrups, and creamy ingredients. Some shops have specialty signatures sodas along with rotating seasonal options.
Why are dirty sodas so popular in Utah?
Dirty sodas have exploded in popularity across Utah for several reasons:
- Mormon influence – As many Mormons do not drink alcohol, dirty sodas offer a unique indulgent beverage option.
- Sweet tooth – The sweet, creamy flavors appeal to Utah’s love of sugary drinks and desserts.
- Nostalgia – They remind many of sweet sodas shops and malt shops of the past.
- Variety – With endless flavor combinations, they offer more options than regular soda.
- Social media – Photos of the over-the-top milkshakes spread quickly on Instagram and TikTok.
Soda shops with long lines are a common sight across Utah cities as locals embrace blending soda, syrups, and ice cream into the state’s unofficial drink. New shops continue opening to keep up with the enduring demand.
Where can you find dirty sodas in Utah?
Dirty sodas can now be found across Utah at dedicated soda shops, ice cream parlors, and even some restaurants. Some of the most popular spots known for their signature dirty sodas include:
- Sodalicious – The Ogden-based chain has locations across Utah and is credited with first popularizing dirty sodas.
- Swig – This Utah soda shop chain offers classic dirty sodas and unique Signature Combos.
- Farr’s Fresh Ice Cream – Their dirty sodas feature premium ice cream blended with soda.
- Bearclaw Cafe – A Salt Lake City cafe serving breakfast dirty sodas.
- CupBop – Select locations of this Korean BBQ chain sell popular dirty sodas.
Dirty sodas can also be found at many one-off soda shops, dessert stores, and drive-ins throughout Utah, especially in cities like Salt Lake City, Provo, and St. George.
Are dirty sodas healthy?
Despite their indulgent taste, dirty sodas are not particularly healthy due to their high calorie, fat, and sugar content. A large 20-32 oz dirty soda can contain 500-800 calories and over 100 grams of sugar. The substantial amounts of soda, cream, ice cream, and flavored syrup make them a high calorie treat.
Some shops offer low-fat or non-dairy milk options, sugar-free syrups, or diet sodas as slightly healthier substitutions. However, even with these tweaks dirty sodas still classify more as a dessert than a nutritious beverage. They are best enjoyed occasionally in moderation.
Are there vegan and gluten-free dirty soda options?
Many dirty soda shops now offer vegan and gluten-free options to accommodate various dietary needs and preferences:
Vegan dirty sodas
- Made with alternative milks like almond, oat, soy, coconut
- Use real fruit purees or syrups without dairy products
- Some shops sell vegan ice creams
Gluten-free dirty sodas
- Use gluten-free soda bases
- Whipped cream instead of ice cream
- Syrups and milk bases made without gluten ingredients
Be sure to mention any dietary needs when ordering. Most shops are happy to accommodate requests for vegan or gluten-free dirty sodas.
Can you make dirty sodas at home?
It’s easy to replicate dirty sodas at home with just a few ingredients:
Basic dirty soda recipe
- Soda (1-2 cups)
- Ice cream, milk, or sweet cream (1-2 scoops/cups)
- Flavored syrup (1-4 tbsp)
- Blend and enjoy!
Popular at-home combinations
- Root beer + vanilla ice cream + caramel syrup
- Sprite + strawberry syrup + almond milk
- Coke + chocolate syrup + milk
- Cream soda + raspberry syrup + sweet cream
Get creative mixing and matching sodas, flavors, and creamy ingredients based on your tastes. Blend with ice to create an indulgent frozen dirty soda.
Conclusion
Dirty sodas have become a beloved phenomenon across Utah, satisfying locals’ cravings for sugary, creamy soda shop drinks. The blend of soda, syrups, milks, and ice cream creates a fun beverage experience you can’t find anywhere else. Though not the healthiest choice, dirty sodas are a tasty treat when enjoyed in moderation. Their popularity continues growing as specialty soda shops pop up statewide to serve signature blended sodas in endless flavor combinations.