Oklahoma’s Cherry Limeaid Rivalry, Sonic vs Braum’s

Cherry limeaids are one of those things you do not realize are special until you leave Oklahoma. Around here, they are practically a state drink.

The Cherry Limeaid, Oklahoma’s Unofficial State Drink

Nothing hits as hard as a sweet, cold, and fizzy cherry limeaid on a warm day. No wonder they show up everywhere, from fast food to family cookouts. Sure, you can get them in other states, but in Oklahoma, they have a different weight to them. It is a cultural marker.

The funny part is, even though dozens of places sell cherry limeaids, the real rivalry comes down to two Oklahoma originals, Sonic and Braum’s. Both built their names on Oklahoma roots, both fiercely loyal to their customers, and both have cherry limeaids that inspire heated debate.

You can say “I’m grabbing a cherry limeaid” in this state, and someone will immediately ask, “Sonic or Braum’s?”

Sonic’s Sweet Take on Cherry Limeaids

Sonic fans truly believe their limeaid is perfectly balanced. They lean heavily on the sweet with just a hint of sour. Crisp, refreshing, and it pairs with what Sonic swears is a cheeseburger. Some folks say it is basically the taste of Oklahoma summer, poolside and wrapped in wax paper.

Braum’s Bold and Tart Cherry Limeaid

Braum’s, on the other hand, does not shy away from the lime. Their cherry limeaid is sharp, tangy, and more intense. It hits you in the back of your palate with the tartness first, then it mellows out with a hint of sweetness. It's the complete opposite of the other guys.

The people who swear by Braum’s will say Sonic’s version tastes too much like watered-down sugar, while Braum’s still tastes like an actual lime drink that happens to be just a little sweet.

Why Oklahomans Are Divided Over a Drink

Neither is wrong, and that is the beauty of it. Some people like sweet, others like sour, and Oklahoma happens to have a signature drink that caters to both. You would be hard-pressed to find a more defining beverage battle than this one, especially since both competitors are homegrown.

In a weird twist, Braum's Cherry Limeaid Sherbert tastes exactly like Sonic's Cherry Limeaid... It might be the ultimate Oklahoma ice cream.

The Flavor That Tastes Like Home

In a way, cherry limeaids are Oklahoma’s unspoken handshake. They are what you grab on a road trip through small towns, what you sip in a drive-in stall, what kids beg for on a hot day. They are woven into memories as much as anything else around here.

So, which side do you fall on, Sonic or Braum’s? Sweet or sour? Either way, the answer still tastes like home.