If you need a pick-me-up but find coffee too bitter and a plain soda just won’t satisfy you, a spot in Lakeview has the perfect solution. You may have seen it on social media—the “dirty soda” craze has been a massive hit in places like Utah for years.
Leading the charge in Chicago is Johnny’s Dirty Soda & Snacks, which officially opened its doors this past December.
They don’t serve the average fountain drink; instead, it’s a fully customizable experience—transforming a simple soda into a personalized one. As Chicago’s first dedicated dirty soda shop, it’s all about mixing, matching, and creating a flavor that is entirely your own.
This “choose-your-own-adventure” soda shop in Lakeview is the ultimate pick-me-up
So, what exactly is a “dirty soda”? The concept is simple yet offers infinite possibilities. You start with a base—like Coke, Sprite, or Dr. Pepper—and then “dirty” it with an array of additions.
At Johnny’s, this means choosing from an impressive wall of flavored syrups, including peach, pineapple, blue raspberry, and vanilla. You can add a splash of creamer for a smooth finish or even a dash of edible glitter to make your drink sparkle. It’s a choose-your-own-adventure in a cup.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed by the options, Johnny’s has a menu of signature creations to guide you. We tried a bright blue mixture made with Sprite, blue raspberry, and lime, as well as a peach almond Coke Zero.
