Shoeless Joe

The first time I experienced carbonated coffee was at Mercury Espresso Bar.  We were meeting some friends for fried chicken and donuts for lunch (because clearly that’s the right thing to do on a weekend) and we had decided to walk the four kilometers to get there (because that’s what you need to do when you eat fried chicken and donuts for lunch). 

We were a little early, so we stopped in at this espresso bar.  And of course the carbonated coffee caught our attention.  It might sound odd, but really it just makes a regular coffee more refreshing.  Kind of like sparkling wine is like regular wine with a kick. 

So when I saw this recipe for a carbonated coffee with cherry, I was sold.  And I was right.

This drink is delicious on a summer day when you want a coffee but it’s too hot.  Sure a regular iced coffee might do, but this is so much better than that. 

So give your coffee an extra pop!

Shoeless Joe
Adapted from Bon Appetit

1 oz. cherry simple syrup (recipe below)
1 oz. strong cold brewed coffee
3 oz. club soda
3 oz. cola
Lime wedges, for serving

Mix simple syrup and coffee in a rocks glass.  Fill with ice.  Top with soda and cola and garnish with lime wedge.
  
Cherry simple syrup

2/3 cup 100% cherry juice
1/3 cup sugar

In a small saucepan, bring juice to a boil.  Reduce heat and simmer until reduced by half, about 5 minutes.  Add sugar and stir until dissolved.  Let cool before storing in a jar in the fridge.  Syrup will last for at least one week refrigerated.