Ode to the espresso soda

Cold, sharp, bubbly, bitter, the espresso soda is the perfect refreshing summer drink. A shot of espresso over sparkling water with ice.

Locally, it's not at all common, overshadowed by cold brew. It's fun to order, the barista is usually excited or sometimes confused. The cost varies widely. Sometimes I get charged for an espresso, sometimes an americano. One time I had to buy a whole bottle of fancy sparkling water.

Even the name is a little uncertain to me: "espresso soda"? "espresso spritz"? "espresso tonic" sounds nice, but made with tonic water is too bitter to my taste.