In the world of mocktails, there’s a classic that often gets overshadowed by its more famous cousin, the Shirley Temple. Toby, a connoisseur of fine non-alcoholic beverages, recently introduced me to his favorite drink: the Roy Rogers.
The Roy Rogers is a simple yet delightful combination of grenadine and Coke offering a unique twist on the traditional Shirley Temple, which typically uses Sprite. Toby’s enthusiasm for this drink is infectious, and his insights into its history and appeal make it a must-try for anyone looking for a fun, non-alcoholic option.
The Allure of the Roy Rogers
Toby’s affection for the Roy Rogers stems from its distinctive flavor profile. “A Roy Rogers is so much more exciting than a Shirley Temple,” he explained. “You 100% taste the cherry, but it’s also Coke-y. It makes you feel like you’re in Top Gun: Maverick.”
The drink’s nostalgic appeal is undeniable. Toby recalls a memorable visit to Musso & Frank in Los Angeles with his dad, where the bartender, reminiscent of the one from The Shining crafted the drink in a dimly lit, atmospheric setting. “It also felt like you were in a horror movie because of how dim the lights were,” Toby added, painting a vivid picture of the experience.
Navigating the Menu
Despite its classic status, the Roy Rogers isn’t always on the radar for many servers. “It’s an older drink, so waiters don’t always know it,” Toby warned. To avoid any confusion, he suggests describing it as “grenadine with Coke.” For those longing for the simplicity of the past, Toby quipped, “If it was in the 1980s, I would just ask for a Roy Rogers.”
Toby also offers practical advice for different dining scenarios. “If you’re at a casual restaurant, just get a Sprite or something. But if you’re at Musso & Frank or another fancy restaurant, then you better get a Roy Rogers,” he advised, highlighting the drink’s versatility and suitability for various settings.
Capturing the Moment
Every outing with Toby turns into a mini photo shoot, capturing the essence of the moment. His keen eye for detail and ability to make even the simplest of activities memorable are evident in every snapshot. “A few more photos…since every snapshot of a teenager turns into a photo shoot lol,” Toby joked, encapsulating the joy and spontaneity of youth.
Toby’s insights extend beyond the Roy Rogers. His expertise in navigating family travel, surviving family outings, and choosing the best family movies makes him a go-to resource for practical advice. From his and Anton’s guide to NYC to their nine tips for bringing kids to restaurants, Toby’s wisdom is invaluable.
So, the next time you’re looking for a fun, non-alcoholic beverage, consider the Roy Rogers. With its unique flavor and nostalgic charm, it’s a drink that’s sure to impress. And who knows, you might just feel like you’re in Top Gun: Maverick yourself.
