They had something called an "orange cream," which was a bit like an Italian soda.

There is nothing else on the menu except bottled water, Italian sodas and a picture of St. Anthony.

Even the grenade-size bottles of Aranciata, an Italian bitter orange soda to which the two are addicted, were fair game.

They also provide Italian soda, smoothies, and sweet teas in many flavors.

"Italian soda," I said to the barrista, suddenly more cheery.

A plan in place, I tried to schluck up another sip of my Italian soda, but it was already empty.

"Be my guest," he says, and lifts his Italian soda.

Bickford's, which serves lunch and Sunday brunch, also offers cocoas and Italian sodas.

An Italian soda is a soft drink made from carbonated water and simple syrup, usually flavored.

Despite its name, Italian soda originated in the USA.