Column: You need to try these lesser known Franklin St. drinks before you graduate

We are graduating, and we are sad about it. We figure you might be, too.

To combat the commencement blues, we embarked on a journey to our favorite Franklin Street spots, but we didn’t order our usual go-to beverages. Instead, we asked for bartenders’ specials, “secret menu” libations and the most underrated drinks offered.

Now, we’re here to provide you with a comprehensive list of everything you need to try before the semester (and your college career) ends.

Asterisks indicate items that may, or may not, be available at bars depending on who is tending or how busy it is. Always be considerate of bartenders' time when ordering drinks that aren’t on the menu and don’t forget to tip.

*Linda’s “Frozen Lemonade” 

This drink doesn’t taste like alcohol: it simply tastes like a delicious frozen lemonade. Less bitter than a vodka sour, and somehow even more “lemonadey” than a vodka lemonade. And the kicker? It’s only a little over $5 — a steal in every regard. 7/10

*Linda’s “Baja Blast”

This is our hands-down favorite beverage at Linda’s. A limey delicacy that tastes exactly Taco Bell’s Baja Blast, minus the carbonation and plus alcohol. Couple it with Linda’s sweet potato tots and we’re in love. Unfortunately, this drink is on the expensive side, rounding out to about $10. 8.5/10

Zog’s “Dirty Bong Water”

Although the name isn’t very enticing, this beverage is actually delicious. It is very sweet and tastes like candy in liquid form. Just be careful — due to the high alcoholic content, the bar doesn’t suggest you have more than two in one night. Thanks for having our back, Zogs! 9/10 

*Four Corners’ “Watermelon Lime Vodka Red Bull”

This is another expensive (about $15) — but amazing — drink. It tastes like a cherry limeade, but it’s a little limier than you would expect. Plus, it’s a cute pink color that made us happy. What more can you ask for? 9/10

*Sup Dogs’ “Orange Dreamsicle Sup Crush”

Neither of us particularly enjoys orange-flavored drinks, so our hopes weren’t very high when we took our first sip of this Crush-concoction. But oh, were we wrong to be worried. This beverage is the drinkable version of an Orange creamsicle. It’s absolutely divine. 9.9/10

The Crunkleton’s “Elderflower Sour”

This is a super sour and floral-tasting drink that is the perfect way to start off a night out. Classy and elegant, this drink can trick everyone (including yourself) into thinking you’re not living on a student-journalist budget. Beware, however. The drinks at this establishment are expensive and strong. Keep both in mind when you enter! 8.5/10

*Might as Well’s “Dragonberry Lemonade”

Resist the urge to get a vodka cranberry next time you go to MAW. Instead, we recommend a dragonberry lemonade. Made with dragonfruit rum, this drink is what Pink Whitney wished it tasted like. 9/10

If you’re a graduating senior, try these drinks to spice up Bar Golf this week. We hope we saved you from countless gin and tonics, lemon drops and cherry-lime-inspired concoctions.

Whether you’re graduating like us or just looking to refresh your Franklin Street outings, drink responsibly — and happy Senior Week, Tar Heels.

@dthopinion

opinion@dailytarheel.com

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