Fountainhead of Flavor

Brothers Scott (right) and Brent Sorensen founded Sodabox, a craft fountain drinks concept in Apex.

Fountainhead of Flavors

JUST WHEN YOU THOUGHT you had seen every type of soft drink, a cool new concept has arrived aimed at amping up the offerings.

Welcome to Sodabox, a purveyor of craft fountain drinks and treats located in Apex. You’ll find more than a dozen types of familiar soda, but it’s the customization factor that makes things exciting. Think of it like the Coke Freestyle machine on steroids — but a mixologist creates it for you.

Here’s how it works: Select from among well-known carbonated choices like CocaCola, Mountain Dew, and Dr Pepper and then add syrups such as blackberry, pomegranate, or even a fruit puree. Or opt for a creatively curated concoction from the menu’s “Soda Love” section.

Beverages are made using fountainpoured soda along with primarily Toranibrand syrups and purees lined up on an impressive “flavor island.” Every drink is served over pebble ice.

“Our recipes are unique combinations that you wouldn’t normally think of,” said co-owner Scott Sorensen, 37, who runs the business along with his 34-yearold brother, Brent Sorensen. “This isn’t like going to the gas station and getting a 44-ounce Mountain Dew; this is a real treat.”

Scott said he formerly worked as a bartender, so he became proficient in mixing various types of drinks. After considerable thought, planning, and experimentation, he and Brent launched Sodabox.

“The South is the home of soda, because we’re in Pepsi’s backyard, and CocaCola is next door,” Scott said. “Soda has been

around for the last hundred years, but there really hasn’t been that much innovation.”

Among the most popular menu items at Sodabox is Sprite-based crowd pleaser Pretty & Pink, which includes cherry, strawberry, raspberry, and passionfruit syrups. Then there’s Spin It Like a Helicopter with Cheerwine, cherry syrup, and peach and mixed berry purees.

“The one drink every single kid should always try is the Dirty Floater, which is root beer, vanilla, and cream,” Scott said. “It tastes just like a root beer float.”

Playfully named infusions like Mango McMango Face and Life Gave Me Lemons keep things upbeat.

“Seatown Pops is a nod to Seattle, where we are from, and we named it as a tribute to our late father,” Scott said.

Monster energy drinks are also accessible, including a sugar-free version. Lemonade, seltzer water, and organic tea round out the copious options.

Try the delectable whoopie cookies made by a local baker.

“We really want to make this about the experience for our guests,” said Brent. “That’s why the front of the house is designed for people to take selfies and to have fun.”

“We’re selling happiness,” Scott added. “Life is hard sometimes, so it’s nice to offer an affordable treat.”

Sodabox is open Sunday through Thursday from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Friday and Saturday from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. A convenient drive-thru window is available. Be sure to ask about the shop’s loyalty program. t

Sodabox 817 E. Williams St. (Plaza 55), Apex (919) 267-6914 sodabox.love

A “flavor island” features an array of syrups and purees. LEFT: Flavored syrup is poured over pebble ice.

BELOW: Custom drinks are made to order and poured from a soda fountain.