Sweet? Unsweet? Half and half? Arnold Palmer? If you are from the South or have lived in the South for any amount of time, you know what I am talking about. TEA! Thirst quenching, goes with everything, Iced Tea! And I am not talking about the Long Island kind.
June 10th is National Iced Tea Day. This "brew" has permeated our culture for over a century and has caused much debate on the best ways to enjoy it. Here in Texas, iced tea has been documented as far back as the 1880s and there was no sugar involved. There are journals and other historical records that show iced tea was a popular way for ranchers to clear their dusty throats. However, it wasn’t until the 1970s where “sweet tea” begins to take hold across this great state. Today, you can find just as many restaurants who are iced tea “purists” as those that ask for “sweet or un-“.
To help you celebrate this wonderfully refreshing holiday, here are a few Arlington spots that our "experts" have found to have outstanding Iced Tea!
- With the addition of Texas Live! to the Arlington Entertainment District, so came one of the best Iced Tea outlets around. Whether you order it sweet, unsweet or half 'n' half they won't let you down!
- J. Gilligan's is not only an Arlington institution for Irish Nachos and local flair, but it is one of the best places to get Iced Tea. They will even put a lime in it for you South Texas folks!
- Of course, one of the best ways to enjoy Iced Tea in Texas is along side a plate of BBQ. Dickey's BBQ not only has great brisket, they will fix you up with house brewed Iced Tea in both the un- and sweet varieties!
- A story about Iced Tea would not be complete without mentioning two Texas icons, Whataburger and Sonic! Whether you are enjoying it with a jalapeno burger or just stopping by during "happy hour," both of these chains will not disappoint.
So the next time you need to quench that thirst, check out these Arlington locations for Iced Tea...no matter how you like to drink it!