10 Discontinued Sodas from the ’80s That Deserve a Comeback

The 1980s were a golden age for soda lovers—a time when bold flavors, eye-catching neon designs, and an endless stream of fizzy fun ruled the shelves. Soft drink brands were all about experimenting, serving up wild ideas that ranged from quirky to downright delicious. And honestly? We were here for it.

But not every soda managed to stick around. Some were way ahead of their time, others got lost in the chaos of cola wars, and a few were just plain unlucky despite their greatness.

So, let’s crack open the nostalgia and revisit 10 discontinued ’80s sodas that deserve a comeback. Because let’s face it—some flavors were too good to fade away.

1. Hubba Bubba Soda

Ever wanted to drink your bubblegum? In the ’80s, that dream became a reality with Hubba Bubba Soda. This fizzy pink concoction tasted exactly like its chewy counterpart, delivering a sugar rush that kids absolutely adored.

With its eye-catching color and playful branding, it was bubblegum lovers’ paradise in a can. But as novelty sodas lost their sparkle, Hubba Bubba Soda quietly vanished.

Now, with retro flavors making a major comeback, why not bring this one back for a new generation to sip and savor? After all, who wouldn’t want a soda that tastes like childhood fun?

2. New York Seltzer

Before sparkling water became trendy, New York Seltzer was already doing it better—and with actual flavor.

Unlike traditional sodas, this clear, colorless drink came in glass bottles and delivered crisp, fruity goodness without artificial dyes. From raspberry to vanilla cream, it was refreshing, unique, and way ahead of its time.

It might have disappeared from shelves, but in today’s era of natural, sugar-conscious beverages, it could easily reclaim its throne. Bring back New York Seltzer, and let’s relive those bubbly, guilt-free sips!

3. Slice

Before Sierra Mist or Starry, there was Slice—the citrus soda that actually contained real fruit juice.

It was tangy, shockingly refreshing, and even came in apple and cherry variations at one point. But as competitors flooded the market, Slice slowly disappeared.

With the recent push for “better-for-you” soft drinks, reviving Slice would be a no-brainer. Because let’s be real—the world always has room for another delicious, juice-infused soda.

4. Pepsi AM

It’s morning. You need a caffeine boost, but coffee just isn’t your thing. Enter Pepsi AM—Pepsi’s answer to breakfast-time drowsiness, complete with extra caffeine for that early-morning kick.

Unfortunately, coffee lovers weren’t ready to swap their mugs for soda cans, and Pepsi AM fizzled out fast.

But in today’s fast-paced world, where energy drinks dominate? A comeback actually makes sense. Maybe this time around, Pepsi AM could finally convince the world that soda for breakfast isn’t so crazy after all.

5. 7Up Gold

7Up Gold was nothing like the 7Up we all know—it was spicy, bold, and completely unexpected. Infused with cinnamon, ginger, and a hint of spice, it was unlike anything else in the soda aisle.

While some found it too unusual, others loved its warm, zippy flavor. Sadly, its uniqueness might have been its downfall, and it didn’t last long.

But today, with consumers embracing bold, spiced flavors, a 7Up Gold reboot could be a huge hit for adventurous taste buds.

6. OK Soda

If you were a cynical teenager in the late ’80s, OK Soda was made for you.

With bizarre marketing, a moody gray can, and a “who cares?” attitude, this soda was more of a cultural experiment than a drink. The flavor? A little bit of cola, a little bit of citrus, a whole lot of mystery.

It was quirky, weird, and misunderstood—which is exactly why it could thrive in today’s ironic, nostalgia-loving world.

Bring back OK Soda, and watch Gen Z turn it into the next viral cult classic.

7. Crystal Pepsi

It looked like water but tasted like cola—Crystal Pepsi was one of the strangest, yet most fascinating, soft drink experiments ever.

It had a massive marketing push, a catchy jingle, and even a Super Bowl commercial. People were intrigued… for about a year. Then, interest mysteriously vanished.

But with clear sodas regaining popularity, Pepsi could easily give it another run. Because honestly, who wouldn’t want a soda that still looks like a science experiment?

8. Like Cola

Before diet sodas dominated, Coca-Cola experimented with a sugar-free alternative that didn’t taste like chemicals—Like Cola.

It was sweet, satisfying, and ahead of its time, but with the rise of Diet Coke, it didn’t stand a chance.

Now, with people looking for low-calorie sodas without artificial sweeteners, Like Cola could finally get the recognition it deserves.

9. Aspen Soda

Apple-flavored soda? Yes, please.

Aspen Soda brought a crisp, refreshing green apple taste to the soft drink world, offering something light and unique compared to the usual cola lineup.

While it never became a household staple, its flavor was a game-changer for soda lovers. With the rise of fruit-infused drinks, Aspen Soda is more than ready for a comeback.

10. Rondo

If a soda’s slogan is “The Thirst Crusher”, you know it means business.

Rondo was a bold lemon-lime soda that took things up a notch—stronger, fizzier, and way more intense than your typical Sprite or 7Up. It was marketed as the ultimate refreshment, and for good reason.

But as competitors stole the spotlight, Rondo was quietly retired. A mistake? Absolutely. With today’s obsession with citrusy, high-energy beverages, there’s no reason this powerhouse soda shouldn’t return.