Welcome to our Soda Fountain!
Old-School Charm, Modern Day Fun
The pharmacy soda fountain was born in the 1800s, when pharmacists first mixed fizzy carbonated water with flavored syrups as “tonics.” From those early days came American classics like Coca-Cola, root beer, and Dr Pepper—recipes created by pharmacists at their drugstore counters. Over time, the soda fountain grew into a community gathering place, where neighbors met for ice cream sodas, milkshakes, and good conversation.
At Hieber’s, our fountain keeps that tradition alive—serving up nostalgia, history, and a little sweetness in every glass.
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The History of the Pharmacy Soda Fountain
The soda fountain has its roots deep in American pharmacy tradition. Long before soda became a casual refreshment, it was considered medicine. In the early 19th century, pharmacists began experimenting with carbonated water—a substance believed to aid digestion and improve health. By blending it with flavored syrups, they created tonics that were both therapeutic and delicious.
The invention of modern “soda pop” can be traced back to Joseph Priestley in the late 1700s, who discovered a method for infusing water with carbon dioxide. His experiments paved the way for Jacob Schweppe, who commercialized carbonated mineral water in Europe. By the mid-1800s, pharmacists in the United States adopted soda fountains as fixtures in their drugstores, offering carbonated beverages alongside prescriptions.
In 1876, Charles Hires introduced root beer as a non-alcoholic, family-friendly beverage. A few years later, Dr. John Pemberton, an Atlanta pharmacist, created what would become Coca-Cola—originally marketed as a health tonic. Other classics like Dr Pepper and Pepsi also began as pharmacy soda fountain creations.
The soda fountain quickly became more than just a place to grab a drink; it was a community hub, where neighbors gathered for conversation, ice cream sodas, milkshakes, and light lunches. By the early 20th century, the “drugstore soda fountain” had become an iconic part of American life, blending healthcare, hospitality, and a touch of sweetness.
At Hieber’s, our soda fountain celebrates this history—connecting today’s guests to a tradition that began with pharmacists mixing remedies and ended with generations of families enjoying fizzy fun together. The soda fountain that used to be in the former Oakland location saw Jonas Salk daily as well as countless other Pittsburgher's. Our hope is that you always leave happier than when you entered our pharmacy and with a little extra appreciation for where pharmacy, medicine, and POP as we know it, came from!
Local Flavor, Modern Twist
Our soda fountain celebrates tradition while embracing today’s tastes. We proudly use Leona’s ice cream, crafted right here in Pittsburgh—full dairy, but lactose-free. For guests looking for completely dairy-free options, we whip up shakes with oatmilk and dairy-free whipped topping, making them 100% lactose-free without losing any of the indulgence.
Every soda we pour is carbonated in-house, just like the early pharmacists who first invented fizzy drinks. To make them even more special, we pair our bubbles with small-batch, locally made syrups from Pittsburgh’s own Barmy Soda Co. as well as house made options and Torani's. The result? A one-of-a-kind fountain experience that’s as local and fresh as it is nostalgic.