Dirty Soda Shops Open Across New Jersey as Customizable Drink Trend Gains Traction

Dirty soda shops have popped up throughout New Jersey. The customizable drink craze from Utah is spreading fast. Customers blend soda with syrups, creamer, and toppings. No alcohol or caffeine… just personalized concoctions.

Drink Spot launched in Belford, Monmouth County, at the start of 2026 as the state’s first dedicated spot for these drinks. Owner Vicki Ford had to expand within four months. Demand exploded from customers all over New Jersey, not just locals. The location now seats about 30 people and functions as a hangout rather than a grab-and-go window.

“It grew so quickly,” Ford told NJ Monthly, noting the excitement from the community beyond just Middletown.

Ford started this with her son Evan. She wanted him to gain work experience. The shop lets customers build their own drinks or pick specialty options like the Quebec Fireside, which mixes root beer with marshmallow syrup and cream.

Abby Taylor built Playa Bowls into a Shore success story. She’s planning to open the Bev Shack in Bradley Beach this season with dirty sodas available. Taylor sees parallels between this moment and when acai bowls were new.

“I’ve always just kind of been interested in the beverage space that’s really blowing up,” Taylor said. “It excites me and it’s something that you can be really creative with.”

These drinks have moved past standalone shops. Ladyfingers Bakery + Bar in Bloomfield opened a Fizz Bar inside the cafe where customers can order them with brunch. Drink Spot works with Olive & Oak in Oceanport to stock a do-it-yourself version.

Mobile operators like Dirty Good NJ and the Salty Sip in South Jersey bring the drinks to events. The craze spread on social media. It was popularized by the Mormon community in Utah before reaching the Garden State.

“At any point in the day you could have a little treat,” Taylor said. “I’m hoping that it becomes something that’s a part of their routine.”

Ford thinks the concept will last. “Everybody finds it trendy, but I think it’s here to stay,” she said. “I’m not jumping on a trend. I’m doing it authentically.”

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