Lemonade serves a critical role in American life, especially in the south. Like many others, my family joyously served it every family reunion. The first pitcher was straight lemonade. But then there would always be another that contained half the freshly squeezed lemonade plus the exact amount of freshly brewed sweet tea to it, also known as a FLOP (likely called something different in other parts of the country.) Lemonade’s versatility includes its ability to satisfy diverse thirsts, regardless of culinary background. Its various levels of sweetness – from pre-diabetic to super tart help explain the global adoration of lemonade.
Anything this versatile has its roots in Africa. Egyptians of the fourteenth century knew of the lemon and it appears that the all-American summer drink may have had its origin in medieval Egypt. Although the lemon originated farther to the east, and lemonade may very well have been invented in one of the eastern countries, the earliest written evidence of lemonade comes from Egypt.
A rather bittersweet aspect of lemonade’s legacy among African-Americans is that enslaved Africans were forced to prepare this drink for their slave holders on the regular. That the drink serves as an iconic staple within African-American culture is yet another example of how Black folk literally make lemonade from lemons as a part of our rich heritage of reliance.
Lemonade’s legacy is continued by Mr. Dwyane Ash, owner and founder of the Tallahassee eatery, Oh Lemonade located at 618 McDonnell Dr, Tallahassee, FL 32310. The business is in a converted warehouse district that now houses small businesses with some pretty dope food concepts.
The menu includes tasty bites and carnival, fair style foods, a variety of burgers (my favorite) and delicious loaded potatoes. You can also choose from quesadillas, tacos, and the crowd favorite chicken wings. My favorite on the menu was their amazing bacon cheeseburger, shrimp hoagie, and broccoli, shrimp, and cheese bowl. Order any of these and there will be no complaints. Each entrée was tasty, hot, and satisfying. The kitchen is a no frills quick bite spot that hits the spot when in search of both satisfying and quick food.
As tasty as the food is, the lemonades are the absolute stars! Each tall glass is served icy cold and fresh-squeezed coupled with real fruit additives with just the right balance of tart and sweet. It consistently yields a bright and refreshing drink with the bonus of a dose of vitamin C, plus a splash of pH-balancing alkaline. Great lemonade smells like fresh cut lemons and is both tangy and sweet. That’s just what you’re getting at Oh Lemonade. I LOVED all the flavors, so I will leave it up to you to choose your favorite when you visit. Bring the entire family for an unforgettable, refreshing and affordable experience. Nothing on the entire menu is over $10! You can reach them by calling (850) 264-6487. Thanks to the Capital City Chamber of Commerce for helping us around town and to locate this delicious eatery.
Can’t wait to get back to Tallahasse to try!!!
Comeback to Tallahassee to try Right On ‘Que!