Happy happy Wednesday!
You guys, it’s time for another edition of TOP FIVE, BOTTOM FIVE.
You know the drill, I’ll name my TOP FIVE favorite things about a topic…and then my BOTTOM FIVE.
Today, the topic is TOP FIVE, BOTTOM FIVE: SODAS/SOFT DRINKS/POP/COKES…
…this is 100% accurate! I didn’t realize there was anything weird about this until I married a man from Missouri who said POP. What in the world is pop? The whole thing messed with my Texas self 😉 .
We are currently not a home that keeps sodas in the house (soda is my new word of choice…but I still sometimes say “coke”), but back in the day…oh back in the day, my parents considered sodas part of a well balanced diet. (Sorry Mom, but you know it’s true, ha!). I was a child of the ’80s and ’90s and basically grew up with a diet of Bagel Bites, Diet Coke and Little Debbie Oatmeal Cream Pies. #thegoodolddays
I might not drink a lot of them today, but I certainly have STRONG opinions about them. I didn’t even realize this should be a TOP FIVE/BOTTOM FIVE until Andrew and I were grocery shopping last Sunday and while getting our sparkling waters, he pointed to a soda and said “I used to love those” and I said “Gag, those are gross” and thus, this post was born.
Ready, set, here we go, it’s my TOP FIVE, BOTTOM FIVE: SODAS.
#5: ORANGE CRUSH
I don’t mind an Orange Crush. I’m not saying it’s my drink of choice, but I do find it oddly refreshing. It’s crisp, it’s light, it’s pretty darn delightful blended with vanilla ice cream. I enjoy it and find it very underrated.
#4: CHERRY COKE
Um, yes. I’ll pass on your normal Coca Cola but add a little cherry in the can, and I am HAPPY! I love cherry anything. Take me to Sonic, and I’ll order the Cherry Limeade. Have a cobbler? I’ll take cherry please! Offer me a soda with cherry, and I’m here for it. Cherry just makes everything better.
#3: DR. PEPPER
Because I am a Texan, and it’s in our blood. I don’t understand people who take Pepsi or Coca Cola over Dr. Pepper, and I don’t understand why it’s not readily available everywhere because it’s SO MUCH BETTER. It’s not “kind of” better, it’s a far superior drink. I like it “normal”, and I like it “diet”. I just like it any way you want to serve it.
#2: CREAM SODA
Well yes. Of course. The vanilla is perfection. It makes me think of my childhood. If you handed me a DumDum sucker, I’d hope for cream soda flavored. I just ADORE it!
#1: ROOT BEER
Without a doubt. I loooove Root Beer and when I gave up sodas a few years ago, it was this one here that was the hardest for me to quit. A crisp, cold Root Beer simply cannot be topped. It is hands down my very favorite.
So, those are my TOP FIVE, but what about my…
#5: GINGERALE
If I’m not currently recovering from a stomach bug, so no thank you.
#4: SPRITE
Yeah, I’m going to hate on Sprite here a minute. Sprite is worthless. It doesn’t have caffeine, it doesn’t have any real flavor to it, it’s often very flat and not nearly as enjoyable as a flavored La Croix or Bubbly. Sprite is just boring. Sprite is what they give you after you come out of anesthesia. Toss in some graham crackers and you have a post-op meal.
#3: PEPSI
For the life of me, I don’t understand going to dinner with friends and they order a Dr. Pepper or Coca Cola and the server says “We have Pepsi products” and my friends say “Okay, I’ll take that”. Um, what?! It’s like me saying “I’ll have a glass of white wine” and the server saying “we only have beer”…they are totally different to me. I do not enjoy a Pepsi and do not find them an adequate substitute for Coke and Dr. Pepper just because they’re all “brown”. I’ll pass on your Pepsi.
#2: FRESCA
And this is the drink that prompted this entire post. We were in the Stop & Shop buying our sparkling waters when Andrew pointed at Fresca and said how much he loved them. Now, to be fair, I can’t tell you the last time I had one, but my initial reaction was “ew, why”. I do love me a sparkling water, but I just do not have memories of this one being amazing. I have memories of a sugary sprite-like beverage with a dash of lemon…I don’t know? Not my fave, Andrew.
#1: MOUNTAIN DEW
I know, I know, I know, everyone I love loves the Dew, but I just don’t find drinking super sweet sticky-tasting citrusy uber-caffeinated yellow stuff appealing AT ALL. I do not understand its mass appeal. I just do not get it. It’s way too sweet for me. I don’t even want a sip.
Okay, it wouldn’t be a TOP FIVE, BOTTOM FIVE without Andrew weighing in too.
ANDREW’S TOP FIVE:
5: Mr. Pibb
4: Fresca
3: Barq’s Root Beer
2: Mountain Dew
1: Dr. Pepper
ANDREW’S BOTTOM FIVE:
5: Coca Cola
4: Cream Soda
3: Orange anything
2: Grape anything
1: Pepsi
And those, my friends, are my TOP FIVE, BOTTOM FIVE: SODAS!
Don’t forget to check out these other TOP FIVE, BOTTOM FIVE blog posts:
TOP FIVE, BOTTOM FIVE: ICE CREAM FLAVORS
TOP FIVE, BOTTOM FIVE: SPRING CLEANING
TOP FIVE, BOTTOM FIVE: TRAVELING BY PLANE
TOP FIVE, BOTTOM FIVE: SKIING WITH YOUR FAMILY
TOP FIVE, BOTTOM FIVE: CHRISTMAS MOVIES
TOP FIVE, BOTTOM FIVE: HALLOWEEN CANDY
TOP FIVE, BOTTOM FIVE: CEREALS
TOP FIVE, BOTTOM FIVE: HOUSEHOLD CHORES
TOP FIVE, BOTTOM FIVE: CHRISTMAS SONGS
TOP FIVE, BOTTOM FIVE: THANKSGIVING FOODS
Okay, I feel like you guys are going to be PASSIONATE today! I’m here for it 🙂 .
I would LOVE to know what your TOP FIVE, BOTTOM FIVE SODAS. I also want to know what you call this drink too (pop, coke, soft drink, soda, etc). Please comment and share!
Don’t forget, I have recipes with SODAS in them! If you’re so inclined, maybe you try…
…my SODA POP-SICLES! They’re super simple to mix and match!
I hope you have a wonderful, wonderful day! I’ll see you tomorrow! xx
GiGi says
I have always called all soft drinks Cokes, followed by “what kind”? I am a Diet Coke lover! It took me a while to get used to it, but now it is my drink of choice. All my friends know I’m going to order a Diet Coke and a glass of water with lemon. My mother let us start drinking Coke (the actual Coca-Cola) for breakfast at a young age, because as she said, she drank coffee. I always want that cold fizz for my throat in the morning and am not a coffee drinker. My husband drinks Dr. Pepper only. I call Pepsi “un-American” and fully agree with you on this subject. Why do restaurants serve it?!? LOL Maybe I’m so loyal to Coke because I’m from where Coca-Cola was first bottled and the ancestors of those people still live in the area. My other top 5 depends on the situation, however I cannot stand root beer.
Mix and Match Mama says
Diet Coke reminds me of my childhood. It’s my parents’ drink of choice and was perfectly acceptable to enjoy alongside your cereal growing up 😉 .
Lorelei Boyett says
Totally agree with everything you said! Diet Coke is my drink and Pepsi should just not even exist. I mean what is that mess anyway?!
Elspeth says
I don’t like any shoes or flavors or soda. Just not a fan of the carbonation or flavor. Haha! What a fun post!
http://www.elspethsdaybyday.com
Ryane says
LOL- it’s a good thing you’re not a soda house then, there’d be too many fights over fridge space!
I don’t think Moxie is as prevalent in TX, but your list tells me you’d probably have loved it!
Mix and Match Mama says
I’ve never heard of Moxie! Tell me more. Is it like a root beer?
Melissa says
I’m so surprised you aren’t familiar with Moxie! It’s super popular in Maine and sold in New England. It’s similar to root beer.
Mix and Match Mama says
Maybe it’s because I’m not spending a lot of time looking at sodas in the store?? I don’t know? I’ve never heard of it, but I’m going to look when I head back!
Jess says
Moxie was born in Maine! It has a strong flavor…a lot of people say it tastes like cough syrup 😂. My grandmother LOVED it.
Francesca says
Cream Soda?! Over Fresca?! Haha no but I do agree with you about Dr Pepper and Cherry Coke… I often have a dilemma between these two when we got to a fast food place like In-in-Out or Five Guys… maybe y’all should do Top Five fast food next 😆
Sarah Nienhuis says
While we are on the topic of soda, can we have a conversation about which sodas go with which restaurants? For example, I must have Coke at McDonalds, Mt Dew at Taco Bell, Dr Pepper at Noodles, Iced Tea at Panera, Coke Zero at Chikfila …etc. I realize this makes me look like I eat fast food all the time (which I don’t! ) but if I happen to be at certain places, I must drink a certain beverage. lol
I must say that I only drink sparkling water with an occasional Coke Zero at home lol. That being said, if you like cream soda – YOU MUST TRY THE BLACKCHERRY VANILLA SPARKLING WATER FROM TRADER JOES! Yes, I’m shouting that because it’s that good! Just like cream soda 😊
Mix and Match Mama says
My mind is BLOWN. I feel like Sheaffer will have a similar list of the best places to enjoy each beverage. I have zero preferences, but I do like Sonic’s ice.
Jess says
I’m curious, what is different about Sonic’s ice? We don’t have one.
Mix and Match Mama says
Ohhhhhh Sonic’s ice is famous! It’s the small pebble-like ice. They even sell it in bags there. It’s the best!
Kate says
Ironically I’m sitting here wearing my T-shirt that says “I googled my symptoms turns out I just need a Dr. Pepper” haha. Also for what it’s worth Dr.Pepper Zero taste pretty similar to the reg. Makes me feel a little “healthier” 🤪
Emily says
Homemade root beer made with dry ice is the best! Kids love it too.
Other sodas are way too carbonated. Also, I grew up calling it “pop”
Your posts are so fun! Thanks!
Mix and Match Mama says
Awwwww! THANK YOU!! This means so very much to me!!
Katrina Goodman says
McDonald’s coke is the best!
Jenny says
Facts! I don’t drink coke, I don’t really like coke, but a McDonalds fountain Coke is the best!
Jess says
Diet Coke must be in a can. I don’t drink it regularly, usually only if I’ve had alittle too much to drink the night before 😉. It reminds me of my grandma, so maybe a comfort drink? Lol. Second would be a root beer of any kind (maybe a New England thing but we have a variety of root beer flavors) and must be a local product over commercialized soda. My third maybe the cranberry ginger ale..I think this is a Christmas only thing (or only time I drink it!)
Alison says
This is a fun topic! Being from Georgia, we also refer to everything as Coke and then ask what kind? It’s so funny traveling to other places and hearing Pop. I also just say soda now. I don’t drink much soda now, but when I was younger- growing up in the 80s and 90s, my house had a bunch of different kinds. I often reached for a Mountain Dew. What was I thinking? I do enjoy an Orange Crush and Coke Zero every once and a while, but often pass altogether. 🙂 I need to do this with my husband.
Laura says
We don’t drink sodas either (Atlantans naturally call them all Cokes too 😉) but if your family if ever in Atlanta, the World of Coke museum has a really fun tasting room. You see all of the flavors made for other countries and they’re fun to taste. It’s interesting to see what flavors are popular all around the world! France has one called “Beverly” that I’ve never seen a single soul enjoy, ha!
Ali Patterson says
Agree – visit the World of Coke! It’s a neat tour about how Coke is made and the tasting room is great!
Lauren says
Beverly is also famous at Disney World! You can try coke varieties from around the world there, too! So bitter, so fun to trick people into trying!
Charise says
“Beverly” is DISGUSTING!!! My husband tricked me into trying it and I almost vomited. hahaha
Kara says
We call it pop in Ohio! And Pibb is my family’s fav! I’ll take Mellow Yellow over Mt Dew! Pepsi lime is another fav for us!
Kerri M says
Try Ollipop, it’s a “healthier” soda. And there is a root beer flavor. Most have less than 5 grams of sugar.
Jo Ellen Hickey says
Top Five:
1) Diet Coke (McDonald’s)
2) Diet Dr Pepper (Chik Fil A)
3) Ginger Ale (every time I fly)
4) Root Beer
5) Fresca
***special mention- there was a Coke flavor I used to get pre-pandemic that I really enjoyed but they no longer make it and now I can’t remember what it was. Coke-orange-vanilla?
Bottom Five:
1) Mountain Dew
2) Orange anything
3) Grape anything
4) Cream soda
5) Cherry coke
Shana Gardner says
I am from Tennessee and everything is “coke” here too. My current favorite is Diet Mt Dew (hate regular, too sweet), but I still refer to it as “coke” 😂
Question… my daughter married a Texan last year and we had to have Pepsi products at the reception because he said “Texas is a Pepsi state”, so I was slightly shocked by your post… is certain parts of Texas more loyal to Pepsi?
Top 5: Dt Dew, all Dr Peppers (zero sugar is SO good if you haven’t tried it), and Coke…. Everything else is bottom 🫣
Melissa says
I think Austin, TX people prefer Pepsi. Seems like more people near Dallas prefer Dr. Pepper. Who knows
holly says
Texan here – Texas is most definitely NOT a Pepsi state. That is crazy talk! haha! Dr Pepper is the best – tho lots of people drink Diet Coke too.
Kimbers says
East Tennesseean here!
Dr. Pepper Zero is SO good and if you can find the Coconut DP, it is a treat.
The only drink I miss from Texas when I lived in Corpus Christi is the grapefruit Topo Chico, you can rarely find Topo here in Knoxville.
My geriatric husband will absolutely only drink Sun Drop and I think it is a Southern thing? But I was born and raised in TN shopping at Kroger and never heard of it until I met him, and I can only find it at Food City out in the boonies.
Mountain Dew is meant for when you get Taco Bell.
Weigel’s Fountain Cokes literally will cure any ailment and a 44oz Coke of your choice is a must before any road trip.
Jennie says
We call it coke in Arkansas. When we were younger, I asked my cousins from South Dakota if they wanted a Coke, then asked what kind and they were so confused! That was the first time I knew it was called anything different. They called it pop and tried to get me to call it that but nope, too weird!
Top 5:
1. Coke/Cherry Coke/Vanilla Coke all of it
2. Dr. Pepper (crazy to me that it’s a southern thing only)
3. Fanta Orange
4. Ginger Ale
5. Fanta Grape
Bottom 5:
1. Root Beer—I want to like it but just can’t…it’s the licorice of cokes for me
2. Mountain Dew—agree with everything you said about it—gross!
3. Pepsi everything
4. Fresca
5. Sprite
Alison says
Andrew is right, Barq’s Root Beer is superior to all others. Cream Soda is great, but have you tried Big Red? It’s a delight. Also, here in southern Indiana, it’s pop.
Shana Gardner says
I am from Tennessee and everything is “coke” here too. My current favorite is Diet Mt Dew (hate regular, too sweet), but I still refer to it as “coke” 😂
Question… my daughter married a Texan last year and we had to have Pepsi products at the reception because he said “Texas is a Pepsi state”, so I was slightly shocked by your post… is certain parts of Texas more loyal to Pepsi?
Top 5: Dt Dew, all Dr Peppers (zero sugar is SO good if you haven’t tried it), and Coke…. Everything else is bottom 🫣
Jess says
Lol, this is amazing. Whomever said moxie is probably right that you’d love it (very New England drink), to me it taste like what I imagine drinking battery acid would taste like but I also don’t prefer anything cream based, Dr Pepper, cherry, etc. I know it’s good for a lot of folks, just not my personal preference even though I feel like it makes me a traitor to New England.
If you haven’t tried it though Trader Joe’s blood orange Italian soda is perfect as a mocktail type of drink.
andrea says
tied for number 1 is diet coke and diet mountain dew. i gave both up a few years ago but will still order at a restaurant from time to time. 🙂
Annie says
I just recently learned that Paloma’s are made with Fresca. Mine blown! And it’ very, very tasty. And a squeeze of lime. Very refreshing tequila drink.
Susan McKain says
Faves: Dr. Pepper followed by Cherry Coke.
I don’t drink soda often but love to get a fountain Coke with maraschino cherries added from the bar at a place in Florida.
No thank you to Mountain Dew or any diet soda – even as a kid the fake sugars/aspartame tasted very bad to me.
Anyone remember taking a crate of empty, skinny glass soda bottles back to the beer distributor to get a fresh selection? We had the brand A-TREAT soda in my area (of PA) and my faves were the bright red(!) cream soda and the sarsaparilla, which is similar to a root beer or birch beer.
Renae Meyer says
Like you I was raised on Diet Coke and still my drink of choice. Also had a lot of Tab now that’s aging myself. But my McDonald’s Diet Coke is like your Starbucks. I’m not a coffee drinker but man a fountain Diet Coke especially from McDonald’s is the best! Google it, there’s a reason, they are the first company to refrigerate their syrup and it’s the perfect temperature. I will also have a Diet DrPepper sometimes. We don’t like Pepsi and I won’t order a Coke if that’s all they have. I’ve given it up a couple times but it’s really hard for me.
Erika Slaughter says
Sometimes the topics for these Top 5/Bottom 5 truly perplex me! hahahaha! If I’m having a soda, hands down I’m having a Coke Zero. Outside of that, I’m gonna pass and take the water or tea. I will say that I don’t really agree with anything on your list because Dr. Pepper, Cream Soda, and Root Beer are all super nasty to me! AND I’m not a fan of a cherry add-in so Cherry Coke is also GAG! Bahahaha!
Rita says
Call it soft drink and just not a fan. Never have been. I do like lemonade with Campari, lol. Don’t have it often. When I had kids I banned soft drink in the house, my kids do not drink it and my son actually said once “ Nothing tastes better than water”
Amy Heinl says
Hi My name is Amy and I am addicted to Dr. Pepper but now limit myself to 2 per day and water the rest of the time…lol
Top 5
1. Dr Pepper
2. Vernors Ginger Soda
3. Cream Soda
4. Fresca
5. Anything Grape
Bottom 5
1. Mountain Dew
2. Root Beer
3. Pepsi
4. Cherokee Red
5. Ginger Ale which is very different than Vernors Ginger Soda
Kelly Bonner says
Texans call everything come that is for sure! I don’t really drink soda anymore, so it’s really hard for me to come up with a top 5 bottom 5, but I will say I LOVE root beer! It is my soda of choice & sometimes I feel like people think that’s so weird! 🤣
Lisa says
We were watching childhood videos the other day and my daughter says “wait rewind that tape, was that a “Coke” I was drinking at 2 years old?” Brother who was 4 a the time was also in the picture drinking a can of Coke. Listen I don’t clam to have made the best choices of what they ate and drink when they were little but they turned out okay. All are happy and healthly and do not drink soda, they are sparking water people too. So go easy on your Mom. All of us who had kids in the 80’s and 90’s did the “Soda” thing. FYI, as a Grandmother I do not give soda, just maybe a little sip of my tea when the parents aren’t looking. LOL
Fun Idea for Post: Things your parents while raising you that you would never do as a parent.
Mix and Match Mama says
I LOVE THIS POST IDEA!!!
Allison says
Love this post idea!!
Beth Valenta says
Oh what a fun post! I am from VA and call it soft drink or soda. I stopped drinking them long ago and have never wanted one with the introduction of so many fun waters.
My Top 5: 1. Root beer 2. Mr. Pibb 3. Sugar Free Ginger Ale (ok I mainly use this as a mixer), 4. Fresca 5. Cranberry ginger ale (it’s festive for the holidays)
Bottom 5: 1. Mountain Dew is foul, 2. Coke 3. Diet Coke 4. Pepsi 5. Dr. Pepper (diet is acceptable)
We used to have a Pop Shop here when I was a kid and my brother and I would pick out diffeent flavors each week, like lemon lime, root beer, grape, etc. So YUM.
Claudia G says
Top #1 Dr pepper always.
Fresca is grapefruit flavored and so good w tequila! You should try it!
Bottom 5 all Pepsi products
ann says
Being a Canadian, we never say the word ‘soda’. Soda to me is a clear fizzy drink one has with vodka, as an ‘add-on’ to alcohol. I grew up with Canada Dry Gingerale and to this day is my very favourite pop. I too like your man, love Fresca and we keep it at home and drink one occasionally, but not as an every day drink. I do love the fizz that hits the back of my mouth and for that reason purchased a soda stream and we absolutely love love it.
Lisa N says
At Sonic Coke Zero + Vanilla. Anywhere else fountain drink, it’s Diet Coke topped off with real Coke:)
My grandkids get A&W Rootbeer at Lovie’s house🥰
talia says
On a very rare occasion (read: once every five years or so), I enjoy a small bit of fountain coke. Otherwise, I’ll pass on all sodas.
Lesley McFarland says
First..everything is called Coke. I don’t understand pop😂.
Also, is Pepsi in anyone’s top 5?
Charise says
This is WILD! I prefer 7Up over Sprite. I’d rather have a Pepsi over a Coke, but Dr Pepper is my favorite…especially with a true lime packet added to it. I love Mtn Dew, especially most of the seasonal flavors they come out with. Fresca is SO GOOOOOD! And I can not drink ginger ale at all…it makes me sick.
Eliza says
I love Barq’s root beer. I gave it up a few years ago but back in the day I had been known to pick a restaurant just bc it served Barq’s. Fed me whatever but I know what I want to drink.
Fun post!
Amy D. says
I’m not and have never been a huge soda drinker.
Top 5: 1) OliPop Cream Soda 2) Root beer 3) Sprite 4) Mountain Dew Baja Blast (zero sugar) 5) Ginger ale
Bottom 3: 1)Pepsi 2) Grape anything 3) Coca Cola
Jordan C says
I hate fresca as a soda. Fresca with tequila…now we are talking! Try it! lol
Myra says
Agree on Pepsi– No, just no! We were recently in Hawaii and that is all most restaurants had. I’d order a Diet Coke (Addicted to them) and they’d ask me – is Diet Pepsi ok. No, no, it is not.
And in my opinion, McDonald’s Fountain Diet Coke is superior to ALL.
Erin H says
As I sit here with my McDonald’s Coke w/extra ice (the only way to drink it), I’m laughing at this post. Really, Coca Cola is the only soda I drink. Maybe a root beer, but that would be it. Sprite/7-Up is what my mom gave me when I was sick so it makes me feel sick if I drink it. And while I do agree Pepsi is the worst, if I’m desperate and ONLY if it’s a fountain soda I will drink it, but again only in the worst of times. I basically main line iced tea (unsweet thank you – my three years living in Texas failed to convert me). My friends have a running joke because my first line of questioning to a waitstaff is always “is your tea fresh brewed?” because do not be coming at me with iced tea out of a fountain! I’d rather drink Pepsi. haha.
Jennifer C. says
I can tell when they pass it to me out the window whether the ice amount is adequate and have been known to request a cup of extra ice. 😇
Maddie says
I’m from Mississippi and have always called them soft drinks or soda! I don’t want anything to do with it unless it’s a Diet Coke, Diet Dr. Pepper, or Diet Pepsi! If someone offered me a diet Mountain Dew, I might take it. I feel the “diet” versions are far superior🤣.
Victoria says
Yes, it’s always “pop” in the Midwest!
Lauren says
Love this one! I’m from NC, and my parents’ house always had Mr. P’s pizza, Little Debbie cakes, and Diet Pepsi. I HATE Diet Pepsi! My parents called it pop, but that’s not the norm for NC. Most say soda or soft drink. I’m more of a sparkling water person these days, but if I have a soda, Dr. Pepper is always my #1! Except for during pregnancy when I was sick as a dog, the only thing I wanted was an ice-cold Coke. 🙃
Peg says
I’m a Diet Coke fan! When I ask for a Diet Coke and they say, “Is Pepsi ok?” I always feel like responding, “Is it ok to give you fake money?” No, it’s not ok!!!!!
Mix and Match Mama says
This. This right here!
April says
I need to ship y’all some SunDrop from Alabama!
Allison says
Maybe I’ve been reading your blog for so long, not sure, but the second I saw this post was sodas I KNEW your number one bottom would be Mountain Dew. I just knew it lol!!
Mix and Match Mama says
This warms my Mountain Dew disliking heart 🙂 .
Jessica Tribbett says
Have you tried Poppi’s yet? We are not a soda house, never have been, soda was always a treat for me growing up. But we started getting packs of Poppi’s from Costco and they feel like a fun treat to have with my lunch some days. Cherry Limeade is my favorite but I’ve liked all the flavors I’ve had, and they have a lot! They even have Doc Pop, similar to Dr. Pepper, and Root Beer. They are only 5g of sugar, under 25 calories and have prebiotics.
Mix and Match Mama says
I have never heard of Poppi’s! I’m so curious now.
Erin says
Mmmm, I am with Andrew, LOVE Fresca.. and palomas.. and really anything grapefruit!! And the new vodka Fresca mixers are really good- low carb, and low calorie too! We also like the Zevia sodas since they use stevia as a sweetener instead of chemical artificial sweeteners. Some are better than others but the cream soda one is a staple at our house! However, my drink of choice, sadly, is Diet Dr. Pepper- I don’t do coffee so it is my vice and daily dose (or two) of caffeine!
We are in Georgia, and we all say Coke too.
Jessica Belanger says
Growing up my siblings and I worked in my dad’s ginseng garden and when it was time for lunch we’d get a ham and cheese sandwich and a cold Mt Dew!!! I still love Mt Dew. Do you remember Surge and Mellow Yellow? Similar color…but yuck!!!
I’ve been trying the different flavors of Poppi and they are all so good! I love the raspberry rose flavor.
Casey says
You know when the news interviews people who are 100+ yo? They always say they’ve lived so long because they had a Dr Pepper & a whiskey everyday. 🙂 I aspire to this! Haha!
Top Five:
1. Dr Pepper
2. Wild Cherry Pepsi (very specific about this)
3. Coca Cola
4. Sunkist Orange
5. A&W Root Beer
Bottom Five:
1. Mountain Dew
2. Grape anything
3. Vanilla anything
4. Ollipop/Poppi or a “healthy” alternative
5. Diet Dr Pepper
Lauren Palmer says
Girl. Girl!! Girlllll!
1.) Okay. Native Texan here too, but Dr. Pepper tastes like prunes. I’ve drunk about a thousand in my life from ages (birth-24), but I recognize the flavor now.
2.) Cream Soda and Root Beer. I have no words. Only bad emoji faces and I’m on my computer so those aren’t even available to me. I’ll just say, “shame on you for enjoying bizarre chemical/vanilla flavored “pop.” ”
3.) My number one/two would probably be Orange Slice, which I think is the same as Orange Crush, so we may be on the same page there. Go us!
4.) I also like Fanta, but only if I’m in Italy.
5.) Fresca rocks. It’s literally the OG old person “pop” and I’m here for it.
6.) Let’s forget about the cancer-causing aspertame for just a minute and give a little love to Diet Coke.
6.) Regarding Andrew’s: Mr. Pibb and Dr. Pepper are exactly the same thing, so….
Mix and Match Mama says
Prunes?! Friend, what in the world?! We MUST discuss!
holly says
Fanta in Italy is SO different from here in the US! I don’t like it here, but tried in Italy and it was so good!
Kristen says
It all depends if it’s fountain soda or cans too! Fountain Diet Pepsi is my fav! No coke here! I love a Fresca with tequila , fresquila !! Try it, they are delish!!
Amanda Chavis says
You should visit North Carolina and try Sundrop, Cherry Lemon Sundrop and Cheerwine! I don’t drink soda regularly but it’s very hard to pass these up!
SS says
Shay…yes Diet coke as a kid. My parents would buy it in 2 liters hopefully you poured a glass when first.opened. Lol. I remember my Aunt sneaking cans I to tht movie theatres and my cousins and I all passing it around. My kids say Ewww. Lol.
I haven’t been drinking as much soda lately either.
My friend from Texas always said Coke and when I vio her I said I don’t like coke do I say clear coke ( for 7-uo or Sprite at the time)?
Bottom 3
3. Plain Ginger ale including Vernors which is horrible for somebody from Michigan. Lol
2. Mountain Dew (although a staple for my 3rd shift days in college because I don’t like coffee)
1 Coke or Pepsi
Top 5
5. 7-up
4. Blackberry Ginger ale (they only have it at Christmas)
3. A suicide (remember back in the day roller skating and you would get a little of all the fountain flavors in one cup…and still some how it always had a strong taste of Dr. Pepper?).
2 Faygo ( a Michigan thing) – so many flavors to choose from cream soda is my favorite. We get different flavors to make floats.
1. A really good root beer. We have some breweries that make their own root beer. We are picky about our root beer. Lol. There are also some good ones in a bottle. From tht store usually Barqs though
Lisa D says
It’s called “soda” but I rarely drink it now and prefer water. Occasionally I’ll buy a drink at a convience store when we are on a driving trip and it’s half diet coke/half lite lemonade. I’ll drink gingerale on an airplane. A few years ago I did buy Sparkling Ice drinks at Costco (flavored zero sugar sparkling water) and they were good. I used to love Dr Pepper and cream soda!
Bottom five:
5. Grape anything
4. Orange anything
3. Unflavored sparkling water ugh!
2. Mountain Dew – nope, so awful!
1. Cherry coke – so yucky! It tastes like Nyquil and I detest it! (I obviously have a strong opinion about cherry coke haha)
Fun post today! 😄
Debbie says
I don’t drink sodas as much as I once did, but when I do, it’s a diet cherry limeade from Sonic or a Sleigh All Day from Swig. I think there are Swigs in the DFW area. That drink is made with Fresca and fruit. It might change your mind about Fresca!🤪
Ali Patterson says
I’m from Alabama, we say “coke” and “what kind,” just like y’all do! I gave up all cokes 7 years ago but before that I loved Diet Coke, Dr. Pepper and Diet Mt. Dew. I accidentally took a swig of my husband’s Dr. Pepper from a fast food restaurant a couple of weeks ago and almost threw up! It tasted just like chemicals after not having one for so long! But, I had a tooth pulled and was told to drink a Sprite with ice afterwards and it tasted delicious to me. I’m weird I guess, lol….
Who knew this list would generate so many comments? Love it.
Laci says
I have so many opinions! Coke is superior! Dr, Pepper is next!
Tanya says
Kansas girl: Pop
👍 Coke work Lime
👎 Mountain Dew
Ruby Huling says
There’s a particular restaurant where we eat, and EVERY TIME my son will ask for a Diet Dr Pepper knowing they don’t serve it. He’ll then order a Diet Coke!😂. Coke Zero is my #1 but only in a 12 is bottle, not the 16 oz bottle or in a can and definitely NOT poured over ice.
Katie Stewart says
Ok now I’m just confused! 😂
I’m also from Missouri and I’ve called it “soda” my whole life. My grandpa used to say “sodey pop.”
Top 5:
5. Mountain Dew (my dad’s diet consists of Hit Fries and Mountain Dew 😝)
4. Vanilla Coke
3. Red Cream
2. Dr. Pepper or Pibb
1. Creamy Coconut Dr. Pepper (it’s seasonal so not sure it will be around forever, but the best soda I have EVER had!)
But the real question is: have you ever had a Pizza Hut Pepsi while enjoying your pizza? You can’t eat there and NOT get their Pepsi. Literally the only Pepsi I can drink!
Natalie says
Ok I have questions! What do your kids drink at home if they don’t want water? What do you all order when out to eat? La Croix tastes like Alka-Seltzer to me but I’m sure I’m missing out on other sparkling water brands because of my distrust of La Croix. 😂
Mix and Match Mama says
My kids drink water or sometimes, we have iced tea (my mom ALWAYS has iced tea in the fridge, but I’m not good at remembering to do that). Maybe a Gatorade occasionally, it’s all very boring over here. At a restaurant, my bigs always order water, Ashby will order and iced tea and Madeley gets a Shirley Temple when she can.
Jaimee Shaffer says
I have to agree about not trusting LaCroix even though my 11 year old loves it. I just did my TJ’s run yesterday but got some good ideas in the above comments so maybe I’ll try TJ’s sparkling water next! I grew up on soda in FL, moved to NC and have to disagree with that comment that you should try Sun Drop and Cheerwine. I like sweet, but those are way too sweet for me. My favorite was Sunkist Orange for years but can’t tell you the last time I had one since I gave up soda a few years ago on my own journey to better health. My kids were begging for Sonic recently though, and I had worked outside for several hours that day so I caved and got a Cherry Coke and loved every sip AND the ice!
Jamie Atkins says
My husband works for the Mall of America here in Minnesota and the Mall serves only Pepsi products. Even when McDonald’s was here, they could only sell Pepsi, same with Chipotle. But Chick-Fil-A, they have their own contract. They are the only place that serves Coke products and are also closed on Sundays when everything else is open. Pepsi is generally cheaper for companies to serve. So restaurants will negotiate with the companies on which they want in their stores…generally. I am not sure many people would prefer to have Pepsi, and companies know this…its just a little cheaper to serve.
Kathy says
Wow this is so fun. As a kid we rarely got “cokes” at home. And I am grew up in Southwestern Missouri. But Orange drinks were only for the lake. Cherry Limeade was only when we visited grandma and went to the old soda fountain. Dr. Pepper was at one grandparents house and Pepsi the other. As an adult I rarely drink any cokes but love a Root Beer at the movies with popcorn.
Leslie Hull says
Top 5:
5. Zero sugar Dr. pepper with coconut (it hits just right this summer)
4. Cherry Pepsi
3. Diet Coke
2. Diet Coke
1. Diet Coke 😂
Bottom 5
5. Pepsi
4. Starry
3. Mt. Dew
2. Mt. Dew
1. Mt. Dew
K.K. says
ha ha ha… Loving all the opinions!! I’m with you on Cherry Coke. I have one a week and no other soda/cokes… It’s like a special reward that I’ve made it to Saturday. I agree with other readers that McDonald’s does something magical to their fountain Coke…
And Pepsi and Mountain Dew are just UGH. Dr. Pepper is okay, but it has to be VERY cold for me to deal. (Yes, if it’s less than cold, I agree with the comment above about prune taste – uck!) 🙂
Joslyn says
Not a big pop drinker but being from Michigan, Vernors is the way to go 👍
sandi says
In my part of Virginia, Coke covers all soda and pop flavors. Dr. Pepper and Root Beer are my favorites and all others are on the bottom of my list. So fun that these posts get so many opinions!
Stephanie says
What a fun post!! I have to address Fresca !! Our family LOVES Fresca !! We don’t drink so we love to make a fun “ mixed drink” with Fresca- we mix it with light raspberry or strawberry Simply Lemonade or with Clear American sparkling water from Walmart. Our favorites are Cherry Limeade , peach and black cherry. I love ginger ale when I fly but don’t drink it at home unless sick. I love Diet Coke but it gives me headaches. I’ve never understood the allure of Mountain Dew. Tooo sweet ! And yes on root beer , cream soda and root beer !!!
Elizabeth Feldpausch says
How can Mr. Pibb and Dr. Pepper be on his list?!?! One is oh so wrong and one is perfection!! Nothing sets me off like “we don’t have Dr. Pepper but I’ll bring you Mr. Pibb”.
Oh no you won’t 😆
Tamra says
North Alabama here and I always call everything “coke”. My favorite is Coke Zero and the #1 on my bottom 5 would be DR. PEPPER. It is so gross to me. 🫣 My mom and sister love it. I honestly think my hatred of it comes from Lip Smackers Dr. Pepper flavored chapstick from the 90s. I can’t smell it or taste it without gagging. 😅
Tara says
I don’t drink soda anymore but can we just say that fountain cokes/diet cokes are better than anything you can get in a bottle or can? I remember being hungover in my 20’s and nothing hit better than a McDonald’s fountain diet coke!
And regular pepsi out of a 2 liter bottle – we always call it “tonic” growing up in MA in the 80’s!
Lauren Fresh says
This is HILARIOUS. My top THREE are Diet Dr Pepper, Fresca, and Diet Coke. Fresca was SCARCE during Covid and I wasn’t sure how I’d survive. I actually bought Winn Dixie brand somethings because someone told me they were a good Fresca dupe!
Kristen says
OMG! I forgot about the Fresca shortage during COVID?!!! why was that? was everyone mixing it w/ their alcohol!!????
Darcy Sexson says
I love a Fresca! 🙂 Such a fun post and comment string to read too. And while I love Fresca, a Diet Pepsi will always be my drink of choice. I have one in the morning and call it “the breakfast of champions”. I also think soda in a can is SOOOO much better than soda in a bottle! But if we’re going to talk about soda from a fast food restaurant – hands down, McD’s wins there. Their ratios are supreme, and even though I don’t love a Diet Coke I will always, always get a Diet Coke from McD’s. 🙂
Laura DeStefano says
We Canadians say pop. All. The. Time.! 🙂
Kristen Hatcher says
Root Beer is life!!!! I knew I loved you for a reason! Ha!
KC says
My top is a tie between Dr Pepper & Cherry Coke. My bottom is Mountain Dew. Funny story, when my kids were little and they’d want a coke when we’d grab chick-fil-a or something I’d order them Sprite because no caffeine but I’d call it “green coke”. They thought they were something getting a “coke”. They are now 18 and 15 and they still call it “green coke” most of the time and we may have even tried to order “green coke” a time or two forgetting that’s not what it’s called.
Haley says
you NEED to try Fresca again! I had one a year ago and now can’t stop! and THEN they made Peach Fresca! I love anything peach!!!
Faith says
Ok so I KNOW sodas are bad for you…..I call it soda. (North Carolinian) but I LOVE me some Coke Zero especially when it comes from a fountain with nugget ice and Chick Fil A has the best…..but not all. Just one of my locations. It is so good.
My family loves dr. Pepper. I do NOT!
I’ve been on a diet Mountain Dew kick.
We also have a local drink Sundrop and cherry lemon sundrop. So so good!!
No to orange sodas…..but I have been known to crave a grape Fanta.
I cannot drink la croix and those other fake soda drinks – just can’t lol
Faith says
Growing up we drank Pepsi – yes yuck. But my dad was a Pepsi fan and he called it “Boss” he would ask us to go the store to get him a boss if he wanted one with dinner (that meant 2 liter Pepsi).
Erin says
I’m from FL (native), and it’s all a coke! Followed by “what kind?” At least it’s that way amongst those of us who have lived here forever! Regular coke please, followed by Dr. Pepper or a cherry coke. Sprite is not good at all, and don’t get me started on Pepsi. It’s flat and lemony tasting. I’ll pass on a Pepsi all day long 🤢
Jennifer C. says
The only time I’m drinking soda is if it’s a McDonald’s Diet Coke. No, I don’t want Diet Coke in a can. Or a bottle. I’d rather have water at that point. But a McDonald’s Diet Coke…my fave!! I’m a teacher and my own kids know that at 4:00 on Friday, we’re hitting the drive-thru on the way home! It’s my little reward for surviving 1st grade for the week! 🤣
Kay says
In New England, it’s mostly “soda.” But my grandparents (in Minnesota) absolutely said “pop.” I think it’s regional…kind of like whether a sandwich is a “sub” (New England), hoagie? or grinder. I am so with you on Dr. Pepper-I love it! And also on Cherry Coke. I get so excited when we see a movie because you can make your own cherry coke!
Try Fresca with vodka-just saying! You might have a whole new take on it!
Sharon K says
Like you, I grew up with Coke & Dr. Pepper in the frig. I remember liking Fresca in Jr High & I survived High School on Dr Pepper & french fries at the local Dairy Queen. Yes, I’m a Texan!
When I got pregnant with my first child, the Dr. said “nothing carbonated” due to the sodium content. Who knew? That was 40 years ago & I never went back. My kids don’t drink anything carbonated either.
Today, if I want something fizzy, it’s San Pellogrino water. All other sparkling waters are too fizzy for me. I sometime flavor it up too. If you like cream soda, just add a squirt of agave & a splash of vanilla to your sparkling water. I also like to add flavored vinegars to sparkling water!
I will admit that I sometimes buy Fresca to make Palomas …. Add some grapefruit juice, a squeeze of lime & a shot of Tequila. You’ll like it, I promise! 😉
Kim says
Growing up everything was coke. I was taught at an early age that Pepsi is not an option. My mom did not like Pepsi. My favorite is Coke Zero or Diet Coke. I do occasionally like ginger ale. But that’s as far as I venture out. I don’t like vanilla or cherry added. I love anything cherry flavored except for my “cokes”. I agree sprite is a waste of time.
Kara says
Coke Zero is my favorite, BUT I do love me a Dr. Pepper, too! Diet or regular!
Beth says
I believe it’s that, “you know you’re from the South,” when you refer to all soft drinks as Coke. I’m from Tennessee and that’s how we’ve always said it.
Jeanette says
I grew up in South Florida and every soda was called Coke. Went to visit my father in Indiana when I was young and they call it Pop. My ex-husband and his family that grew up in Ohio called it Pop. I moved to Oklahoma in the mid-nineties and it was the first I heard of Dr. Pepper! I haven’t had soda in years. My all time favorite is Cream Soda.
Erin says
Dr. Pepper will ALWAYS be king.
Lizzie says
I grew up calling it all coke. Wonder what makes MacDonald’s Coke so much better than others? I LOVE Sonic’s Cherry, Vanilla Dr. Pepper. Drank it High School. For some reason my favorite Sonic isn’t making it correctly, lately.grrr…
Top 5
Sonic’s Cherry Vanilla DP
Coke
Root Beer – A&W or Barq’s
Diet Mountain Dew
Ginger Ale only if it’s poured over Lime Sherbert
Bottom 5
Fresca
Pepsi
Orange Crush
Any sparkling water
7Up
Stephanie Snyder says
In CA we also call “soda” Coke, meaning any flavor of carbonated chemically enhanced beverage. And with that, Pepsi is NEVER acceptable, only Coke/Diet Coke/Cherry Coke, but Dr. Pepper reigns supreme above all other sodas, except, a root beer on a hot summer day is amazing, and I agree, cream soda is delish. Any citrus flavored clear soda is for stomachaches, and I only like gingerale on a flight or if I am queasy. Currently pregnant, and gingerale just reminds me of morning sickness now. It is good with Jameson and a lime, however. 🙂
Love these posts. Fanta is gross. Mt. Dew is ok occasionally with Pizza, and I LOVE the comments about particular restaurants require particular drinks. I agree 100%! 🙂
Ashley Palmer says
This is so funny to me, because my reaction to restaurants serving Coke is the same as yours to Pepsi. I’ll take it but only because I have to, lol. Maryland resident here!
Lisa says
Diet Coke from McDonalds is the winner. Fresca is only good with Tequila.
Pepsi just tastes flat.
Sheaffer says
If I’m having a coke, it’s 1000% going to be a Dr. Pepper. 🙂 I don’t drink them that often any more at all, although there are certain foods that make me really want one. And Fresca is a perfect mix in for an adult beverage with vodka and tons of fresh lime. I would drink a sprite if it were offered, but I would never even think of drinking anything else.
Kacey says
This is SO funny!!! I love that Andrew specified his root beer choice, it totally makes a difference. I don’t think I’ve had one since I was a kid, but man did I love me a root beer. Also, huge fan of gingerale, even when not sick! The only time I have it now (maybe), if I’m in the mood, is on an airplane! So weird, but I feel like everyone has their airplane drinks and snacks and I’m a 97 yr. old grandma with my gingerale and pretzels 😂 😆 😝
Special shoutout to those oatmeal cream pies – wow does that scream middle school afternoon snack or what! I actually make homemade ones now around Thanksgiving, they’re a hit!
Tina says
2 things…
1) If ever in Destin, Florida, you MUST go to McGuires Irish Pub. They brew their own root beer and it’s sooo good! (Side note: They also have the BEST spinach artichoke dip on the planet.)
2) Mt. Dew tastes like it was almost a household cleaner. 😝
Helen says
Coke is what we call all drinks in the South. My husband used to work for Coca-Cola and we do not speak of Pepsi-blasphemy. He has gotten better but we used to choose a restaurant based on their drink selections back in the day. McDonald’s Coke is better because they do a good job at adjusting their syrup content – that first sip is more concentrated and like crack cocaine… and it’s ice cold, They designed their straws to be wider than average so you can get a direct line to the good stuff. After he left KO, my husband audited the bank that stored the recipe for Coke in the vault – downtown Atlanta, That was a fun thing to talk about – I just ad libbed isn’t it sugar, molasses and carbonated water? Either way, a McDonald’s Coke is the only way.
Claudia G says
Top #1 Dr pepper always.
Fresca is grapefruit flavored and so good w tequila! You should try it!
Bottom 5 all Pepsi products
Christine says
None of these drinks are healthy for us so if one shouldn’t exist, then none should. Clear soda/pop etc is a better choice. Diet has more sweetener in it than regular. Interesting responses in your blog.😀
Sharon High says
I think it’s been at least 15 years since I’ve had a coke (which means any kind of soft drink), but when I did have one…
My Top 5
1. Tab
2. Tab
3. Tab
4. Fresca
5. Mexican coke in a bottle – something about the flavor I liked better than regular Coke
My bottom 5
1. Dr. Pepper (even though it was created here in Texas)
2. Dr. Pibb…well, because it’s a Dr. Pepper wanna-be
3. Anything diet other than Tab
Years ago, Disney had a Coke exhibit at Epcot. I had read up on it, and found the one that had the worst taste and then convinced my brother and former husband to try it, saying it was delicious. The look on their faces!
Meredith says
My sister had to explain the “all sodas are cokes” thing before I met her fiancé’s Texas family! I had never heard that before!
But I do love me some Fresca and ginger ale. Fresca is just like a grapefruit sparkling water!
Kacy M says
I didn’t grow up drinking soda and won’t have one now unless it was mixed with my alcohol. But if I had to pick one it’d be Dr. Pepper. I can’t understand either how people drink/like Pepsi…it’s like corn syrup.
Brenda says
I could have so many thoughts to share, but I’ll just leave this one…I L-O-V-E orange – give me all the citrus smells, soaps, essential oils, even orange juice and especially an orange creamsicle! But give me one sip of an orange pop (midwesterner here 😀) and I will instantly gag! I have no idea why, but orange pop/soda is a huge nope for me!
Karen says
I am Australian, and here we call it soft drink. Soda is soda water 🙂
Laura Beth Morris says
I never comment – but this post is GOLD! Ummm, “we don’t have Coke, is Pepsi okay”? Says, server . . . Ummm, No, no, it is not. I live outside of Atlanta and Coke FOREVER thank you! With you on the Mt. Dew, my hubby loves it and I’m not sure one has ever touched my lips in the 30 years I’ve know him! Fun post, Shay!
Lynne says
Andrew needs to share a Fresca with you – it’s more of a grapefruit flavor and so good. Even better with vodka and a splash of cranberry juice.
Long time Diet Coke drinker but I really don’t drink “Coke” at all anymore. Just water and coffee!
Turd says
You aren’t lying! Fresca and tequila is delish! It is like a spicy Paloma!
Kimberly says
Tennesseean here! It is always, “Do you want a Coke?” and then “What kind?” Hahaha. I am a Dr. Pepper girl but will always say that I need a Coke and then clarify that I want Dr. Pepper. I cannot imagine saying soda or pop. Haha! And “Is Pepsi okay?” – No, not it is not. 😉
Wendy Chandler says
If you love cream soda and Dr Pepper then you should try the zero cal Dr Pepper Cream soda. I’m not a soda drinker but tried this at someone’s house and went out and bought some as a summer treat over vanilla frozen yogurt. Nice surprise.
Becky says
Everyone here in the UK seems to refer to them as “fizzy drinks”!! Am definitely on Andrew’s side re Fresca – I became hooked when we were travelling around Mexico!
Katherine says
Shay, you have to try Poppi or Ollipop!! I prefer ollipop but my husband prefers poppi. Ollipop has a cream soda flavor. They’re “healthier” prebiotic/probiotic sodas. Low sugars and actually pretty tasty.
Mix and Match Mama says
I haven’t! I need to look for them!