A Utah-based soda chain has made its way to St. Peters, drawing long lines and plenty of buzz as it introduces a drink trend called “dirty sodas” to the region.
Swig, located off Mid Rivers Mall Drive near Mexico Road, officially opened its doors this past week. The store is currently operating under a soft launch schedule with only the drive-thru open until Oct. 11, when a grand opening celebration will mark the debut of full hours, giveaways and the opening of the dining room.
Even before the official launch, customers have flocked to the new shop. Lines have routinely wrapped around the building and spilled into the Schnucks parking lot.
Swig is credited with popularizing the term “dirty soda.” Drinks begin with a soda base, ranging from Coca-Cola, Diet Coke, Dr Pepper or Sprite, before being mixed with flavor shots such as coconut, vanilla, raspberry, strawberry or lemonade. They are then topped with fruit purées and a splash of cream.
For those who prefer noncarbonated options, Swig also serves “loaded waters,” flavored water infused with fruit and sweeteners.
Molly Berendzen, a first-time customer, said the drinks were worth the wait.
“I would rate my experience a nine,” she said. “The line was crazy long, but that wasn’t necessarily their fault. Overall, the drink was amazing, and they got us in and out in less than 10 minutes.”
Beyond drinks, the shop offers snacks such as pretzel bites, pink frosted cookies and mini chocolate chip cookies. Swig also features seasonal specials, including pumpkin spice- and cinnamon-themed drinks and mini pumpkin chocolate chip cookies for the fall.
Current hours are 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily during the soft launch. Beginning Oct. 11, Swig will operate under regular hours: 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. Friday, 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. Saturday and 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Sunday.
