For those residing in New York City, the Manhattan Special espresso soda is likely a familiar beverage. Despite its name, this refreshing drink is crafted in Brooklyn by the company of the same name. They offer a variety of options, including regular, diet, and decaffeinated versions, along with nostalgic flavors such as sarsaparilla, vanilla cream, and black cherry.
Finding this soda outside the New York City area can be a challenge unless you order a case online or are near an Italian specialty market. To assist fans, the company has developed a crowdsourced Google Map showcasing locations where it has been spotted. The guest book has been a platform for fans to share their love since 1999, featuring stories from those who struggle to find it after moving away. One delighted fan wrote, “I am glad to be back in the big apple where I can find a bottle on every corner.”
Many individuals from the area cherish their experiences with this soda. On Facebook, a user reminisced, “I’ve been drinking that since I was 8. Maybe [because] I grew up in Brooklyn.” Numerous comments echoed similar sentiments, revealing that much of the soda’s fandom is anchored in nostalgia; some avid fans even call it “mother’s milk.” While it might be seen as a vintage soda to some, for those who grew up with it, it holds a special place in their hearts.
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What to do with a Manhattan Special if you can find one
Bottles of Manhattan Special – rblfmr/Shutterstock
Fans often enjoy Manhattan Special with ice cream, creating a delightful coffee float. On the company’s guest book, one user recommends pouring it over espresso ice cream for an indulgent treat. Another commenter succinctly stated, “Manhattan Special with milk is my morning ritual since I was a teenager and I am now 55.” This may be the original dirty soda!
Additionally, one user on Facebook suggested using the soda in cocktails. “I now use it with vodka for an espresso martini,” they shared. This bubbly variation sounds like a unique twist. You can also mix it with Irish whiskey, cream, and a dollop of whipped cream to create a refreshing Irish coffee soda for warm summer days.
If you’re unable to locate Manhattan Specials nearby, consider crafting your own version. In a Reddit thread, some coffee enthusiasts debated making their own. While a few found it somewhat overly sweet, others suggested combining a shot of espresso with a touch of cane sugar and sparkling water. For an elevated experience, try the espresso tonic with a light roast, fruit-forward coffee, which may not require additional sweeteners.
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Key Takeaways
- The Manhattan Special espresso soda is crafted in Brooklyn, despite its name.
- Available in regular, diet, and decaf options, along with retro flavors.
- Finding the soda outside NYC can be difficult, but a Google Map helps locate it.
- Many fans have nostalgic connections to the beverage, with stories shared in the guest book.
- It can be enjoyed in various ways, including coffee floats and cocktails.
- If unavailable, homemade versions are possible with espresso and sparkling water.
FAQ
What is Manhattan Special?
Manhattan Special is an espresso soda made in Brooklyn, known for its unique flavors and nostalgic significance to many New Yorkers.
Where can I buy Manhattan Special?
This beverage is primarily available in New York City and can also be found in some Italian specialty markets, or ordered online.
How can I enjoy Manhattan Special?
It can be enjoyed straight, with ice cream, or used in cocktails like espresso martinis.
