Restaurateur starts new dirty soda wagon in Cedar Rapids

CEDAR RAPIDS — Another local vendor is bubbling up in the dirty soda trend.

319 Drink Co., a mobile dirty soda and coffee bar, debuted Oct. 25 at the Dunkerton Fall Festival.

The new Cedar Rapids-based concept offers a wide range of customizable drinks from the window of a vintage mobile trailer. Customers can order dozens of configurations with a base of Dr. Pepper, Coca-Cola, Fanta, Sprite, Mountain Dew and root beer, or create their own concoction.

Dr. Pepper becomes the “Nutty Professor” with hazelnut and cream. Orange Fanta becomes a “Tiki Torch” with passion fruit and coconut. Sprite becomes “Strawberry Cheesecake” with strawberry, cheesecake flavoring and cream.

For those looking for a little warmth in the chilly seasons, the wagon also offers hot beverages like coffee, hot cocoa and tea.

Owner Brie Simmons said the idea was inspired by her passion for making creative drinks without alcohol. Simmons previously owned Lizzie’s Dining Car in Marengo, and managed Oak Hill Tavern and Glazed and Infused in Cedar Rapids.

Drinkers can try out the wagon at this week’s Sensory-Friendly Trunk or Treat on Wednesday, Oct. 29 from 5 to 6 p.m. at Stride Autism Centers, 1327 Boyson Rd. in Hiawatha.

Future stops will be announced on 319 Drink Co.’s Facebook page.

Comments: Features reporter Elijah Decious can be reached at (319) 398-8340 or elijah.decious@thegazette.com.

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