I understand that businesses are open in order to make money, I really do. I’m a good capitalist and consumer and I understand the basics of economics, but what the hell is up with charging $2 for a soda in a bar? Is the 400-500% mark-up on your alcohol sales not enough for you, you greedy bastards?

Now, in theory at least, I might be able to begrudgingly rationalize paying $2 for a fountain soda from Subway or 7-11 because there is the cost of the cups, straws and lids. I know cups are expensive because I used to help restaurant owners with their budgets. That is also how I know that a fountain soda served in a GLASS at a BAR with NO FREE REFILLS costs about oooohhhh…. maybe (and let’s be generous on the side of the bar owner) .18 cents. The soda company provides and maintains all of the nasty fountain equipment but regardless, bars use the gun, so they have no additional equipment. The biggest cost to them is the syrup. Charge me a dollar and you still make a nice profit. I will pay $1.50 and not be too bitter, but $2.00 is overkill. First of all, designated drivers should drink for free – why? Because they are ensuring that your bar doesn’t get charged when the drunken fool who’s been slamming Jager shots all night goes out on the 101 and kills a family of four.

You know what really pisses me off? When the soda costs as much as a happy hour drink. You’re charging $2 for well cocktail or a bottle of beer and the same for a 16 oz pint glass of ice and a splash of soda? Am I the only person who finds this unreasonable? And no refills… really? I can get the same drink with a cup for .79 at a convenience store. I can buy a liter of soda for $2 at the supermarket. I can purchase a bottle of Coke from a vending machine in the mall for $2. Do you see the difference? Each of those purchases A) involves packaging and production costs and B) is a better value than buying a soft drink at a bar. As for me, if I’m not drinking booze, I’m sticking to water which is still (for now) free.