Saylor’s Dirty Sodas sounds like something you shouldn’t tell your kids about – or talk about on Sundays. But while the playful name may be suggestive, there is nothing “dirty” about these drinks! Dirty sodas are actually a drink combining soda with other add-ins. A viral trend that, thanks to owner Julie Shryne, can now be found at events in Olympia!
Julie worked for many years as a barista, serving up Washington’s favorite hot drink with gusto and a smile. But she noticed that something was missing in our area. “I’ll always have a soft spot for a beautifully steamed pitcher of milk or a perfectly pulled shot of espresso,” she says, “I definitely still love coffee! But I saw a space in Olympia that was missing something. We have so many great coffee shops, which I absolutely love, but not many bubbly, fun, or non-caffeinated and non-alcoholic options.”
Dirty Sodas in Thurston County
Having a personal love of mocktails or other creative drinks herself, she found dirty sodas to be an exciting idea. “Dirty sodas, with all the flavoring options, fruit purées, orange juice, lemonade, and fun toppings, felt like the perfect answer,” she says. “They’re playful, refreshing, and family-friendly. Plus, I’m a little obsessed with pebble ice.” Pebble ice, which she uses at Saylor’s Dirty Sodas, is small, rounded ice, versus the large cubes or chunks you normally see in your iced coffee or bubble tea drinks.
So, Julie decided to start her business as a pop-up, taking her 10×10 set-up to markets, festivals and even private events, serving up dirty sodas in Thurston County. She is fully licensed and promises a fun experience at every event. “They bring people together,” Julie says when asked why she loves dirty sodas. “It’s like visiting an old-school soda shop with your friends. Plus, the ability to customize is so much fun. Dirty sodas have the magic to bring out people’s creativity and the kid inside all of us. I love watching customers light up when they try a drink that surprises them. Kids and adults! Or when they build their own drink and feel like mixologists. You get to be in control, and who doesn’t love that? There’s just something about a fizzy, ice-cold soda with layers of flavor, cream, and toppings that’s pure joy, especially when shared with someone you love.”
Saylor’s Dirty Sodas Have Endless Combinations
At her booth, you will find a wide variety of pre-concocted combinations that Julie and her family have spent time perfecting. She takes it takes intuition, experience and a lot of taste-testing to get dirty sodas worthy to go on the menu. “I lean into flavor pairings I grew up with and then add my own ‘Saylor’s’ twist,” Julie adds. “Some combos are inspired by nostalgic desserts, others came from just playing around behind the counter. And some started as customer creations that I tried and loved.”
Part of that twist is what she calls “southern flair,” using creamy add-ins such as half-and-half, coconut cream, marshmallow fluff, etc. “We also don’t shy away from indulgence,” Julie says. “Fun things like sprinkles, edible glitter, whipped cream, all of it is available to top off your masterpiece. That’s the Southern charm. It’s meant to feel like a treat, just like a good Southern dessert.”
Can’t have dairy? Don’t worry, Julie has options for those wanting a creamy, non-dairy treat with either almond or coconut milk. She said she is always looking for suggestions, so drop her a note on Instagram if there are other non-dairy (or regular) additives you would like to see at her next pop-up event! We’re mindful of dietary needs and want everyone to enjoy a treat without worry,” she says. “I love connecting with our customers to make sure everyone can have a dirty soda that they love.”
And, of course, you are always welcome to come up with something entirely your own! Their choice of mix-ins is large – and growing all the time – and includes Red Bull and Lotus for those looking for a pick-me-up, creams, syrups, purees and toppings too.
Wondering what to order next time you see Julie? “Our top fan favorite is The Dolly. It’s a Dr Pepper with vanilla, and coconut cream topped with a fresh lime,” she says. “One of our favorite and most surprisingly delicious combos is the Prairie Princess with root beer, toasted marshmallow, marshmallow fluff, and banana purée.”
They are going to be adding real candy like gummy sharks and peach rings soon, as well as seasonal menus inspired by the “Secret Lives of Mormon Wives.”
The business is all about family, so you just might see Julia’s adorable 2-year-old daughter, Saylor, sporting her cowboy hat near the booth. “She’s the heart behind it all, and her name is on every cup,” says Julia. “I wanted to build something fun and meaningful that I could one day share with her. This business is my legacy.”
Contact Saylor’s Dirty Sodas to have them at your next! Message them through the Saylor’s Dirty Sodas Instagram page or check out their website.
“Olympia has shown so much love and support, and I’m so grateful,” shares Julia. “Whether you’re soda-curious or a total superfan, come say hi and sip something fun. You might just create our new favorite flavor. This is my second year serving as Mrs. Olympia and participating in the Mrs. Washington American pageant, and I’m incredibly proud to represent this community. Owning a business here and sharing it with the people around me is just one of the many reasons I love Olympia so much.”
