My Love for Pibb Xtra and Dr. Pepper

There are few things in life that bring instant joy like that first sip of an ice-cold Pibb Xtra or Dr. Pepper. It’s more than just a soda—it’s an experience, a nostalgic embrace, a fizzy little moment of happiness in a cup. Some people are coffee fanatics. Others swear by energy drinks. But for me? There’s nothing quite like the smooth, spiced, slightly mysterious magic of these two drinks. It’s a love story for the ages.

Let’s start with Dr. Pepper—the original, the classic, the legend. There’s just something about those 23 flavors blending together in perfect harmony. It’s like an orchestra where every instrument is playing its heart out, yet somehow, it all comes together in a masterpiece of sweet, spiced, liquid perfection. Is it cherry? Is it caramel? Is it vanilla? Is it all three at once? The world may never know. But what I do know is that Dr. Pepper is a gift to humanity. If I were stranded on a deserted island and could only bring one beverage, let’s just say coconut water wouldn’t stand a chance.

And then… there’s Pibb Xtra. The rebellious, spicy cousin of Dr. Pepper. The underdog of the soda world. Pibb Xtra isn’t for the faint of heart. It’s Dr. Pepper’s cool, slightly unhinged sibling who never quite played by the rules. It’s bolder, it’s sharper, it’s got that little “Xtra” kick that makes you sit up and pay attention. Honestly, Pibb Xtra tastes like it has a motorcycle license. It’s the soda equivalent of a leather jacket.

The biggest problem with Pibb Xtra? It’s harder to find than a matching sock in the dryer. It’s like an elusive treasure you only stumble upon in certain gas stations or when you least expect it. When you do find it, it feels like destiny, and you stock up like a doomsday prepper because who knows when it’ll appear again? If I see Pibb Xtra on the menu at a restaurant, I take it as a divine sign that I’m in the right place.

And let’s talk about loyalty. If you’re a Dr. Pepper or Pibb Xtra fan, you don’t just “settle” for something else. If a restaurant doesn’t have it, the server always hits you with that dreaded line: “Is Pepsi okay?” And I have to sit there, staring at them, trying not to be personally offended. NO, SUSAN, PEPSI IS NOT OKAY. I didn’t ask for a watered-down life choice—I asked for excellence.

Beyond the taste, these drinks have been part of my story. From childhood treats to road trip essentials, from study session pick-me-ups to that moment of pure joy after a long day—Dr. Pepper and Pibb Xtra have always been there. They’re the comforting hug in a can. The best friend that never lets you down. The legal addiction that doesn’t require an intervention.

So here’s to Dr. Pepper and Pibb Xtra—two drinks that never disappoint, never fail to hit the spot, and always bring that little spark of joy. Because life is too short to drink boring soda. I’ll take mine with a little extra flavor, thank you very much.

Now, if you’ll excuse me, I need to go stock up before some poor, misguided soul buys out the last bottles at the store.

—Dr. Nick