The Utah staple of ‘dirty soda’ has crossed state lines and dropped an exciting new shop right here in Portland. Fizz ‘N Sip, located on 2726 N. Killingsworth St is undoubtedly still in its infancy and just had its grand opening on Feb. 8. The businesses outreach on social media via Instagram, as well as multiple local news sites highlighting the establishment, has incited some well-deserved buzz.

Fizz ‘N Sip has a build-your-own option, similar to froyo places, where a customer can choose a soda base, syrup and add-ons like cream. However, when I went, I decided to order one of the already listed out mixtures called Cascade, which included Sprite, strawberry, pineapple, coconut syrup, and coconut cream. I grew up drinking Italian soda, (which is carbonated water, varying syrup and half & half) so when I first tasted it, I was quickly reminded of those times where I would enjoy that in hot summers with my grandparents. 

The shop also provides caffeinated choices that subs the soda out for RedBull. Personally, I am not a fan of mixed energy drinks (like the Dutch Bros’ “Rebel”), but the Willamette (RedBull, blue raspberry and kiwi syrup, and sweet cream) was a refreshing, nearly overwhelming burst of flavor that did not disappoint. Between the two, I’d say that the Cascade was much better, and its soft pink color made it aesthetically more appealing. 

I enjoyed the drinks with clear bases, like Sprite and RedBull, much more than the other two drinks we ordered, which had bases of root beer and Coca Cola. The Gold Rush consisted of root beer, butterscotch and vanilla cream, and it was so sweet and not for me. I’m not a fan of root beer to begin with, and I couldn’t manage more than one sip. The Cherry Blossom (Coca Cola, cherry syrup, coconut cream) sounded amazing in theory, but in reality, I didn’t like it as much as I thought I would. Again, far too sweet and just not for me. 

All in all, I think I might need to refine my tastes and go again with a more clear mind as to what I’d like to order. Obviously I am not interested in the super sweet items, so next time, I will try the options that have a lemonade base to counteract the sweetness. 

The customer service was not only very friendly, but incredibly efficient with drinks being ready just soon after ordering. The pricing and sizing of drinks are similar to chain coffee shops like Starbucks which makes it simple and easy to navigate–the smallest starting at $2.28 and largest at %5.28.

I recommend going to Fizz ‘N Sip to support local businesses and try something new!