SXSW attracts all kinds of industries and people from around the world. Arguably some of the best food trucks show up to present their dishes to the hungry patrons. Coffee roasters are no exception. From March 10-12 coffee roasters from across the country show up to Southbites (the food truck trailer park across the street from the convention center) to bring their best concoctions to the caffeine addicted audiences that is SX. From whole beans to cold brew to organic to vegan, the options were endless. And like any good Lorelei Gilmore, I had to sample some coffee.

I stumbled upon Irving Farm Coffee Roasters from New York City. As a former New Yorker, I am instantly drawn to those who are from my old stomping grounds. I started chatting it up with Griffin and he told me all about this super unique coffee drink they were selling. It’s called a Manhattan Special Cola which is a cold brew with peppermint, rosemary, lavender, and a splash of seltzer water complete with a gold dipped cherry. Also known as the most hipster drink ever. Don’t let all the ingredients scare you, it was very good. Super refreshing and not a heavy sugar driven coffee drink like those of Starbucks. I also learned something new- by adding a syrup, that’s what constitutes it as a cola.

Here’s a video of Griffin making my Manhattan Special Cola and my reaction to sampling it for the first time. Side note: it’s actually really good. To all the NYC people reading this, definitely check these guys out!