Soda Fountain Trivia

Where does the term Soda Jerk come from? A soda jerk is someone who makes a living by jerking, or pulling, sodas at a lunch counter, the name coming from the jerking motion required to open a tap.

Come in and experience a real Soda Jerk at Suzy Q’s. We pride ourselves in great fountain drinks and friendly service — just like the ol’ days!

Soda Fountain Slang (circa 1930s)

Adam’s Ale, Dog Soup, One on the House – Tap Water
Break It and Shake it – Add eggs to a drinkBrown Derby – Chocolate doughnut with a scoop of chocolate ice cream over the hole, covered in chocolate syrup
CO Cocktail – Castor oil and soda water
Chemist of Salt Beverage – Soda Jerk
Hold the Hail – No ice in the drink
House Boat – Banana Split
MG Cocktail – Milk of Magnesia
Spike It – Add spirits of ammonia
Traffic Light – Sundae with vanilla ice cream, red, white and green cherries, crushed pineapple and whipped cream
Twist It, Choke It and Make It Cackle – Chocolate malted milk with an egg.