Fruit Tea in Columbia
There’s a sweet history of fruit tea that flows throughout Columbia, a story as refreshing and distinctive as the drink itself and one many locals proudly consider our signature sip. While not many people know its exact origins in time or place, many will attest to Middle Tennessee as the home of this deliciously sweet concoction. Today, you can find many of Columbia’s restaurants and cafés serving up their own secret blends of fruits, juices, teas and herbs.
What is Fruit Tea
In Columbia, “fruit tea” doesn’t mean herbal berries in hot water, instead picture a tall, ice-cold glass of sweet Southern goodness. Think classic black sweet tea brightened up with splashes of orange and lemon juice (sometimes a little pineapple, too), shaken together into that signature sunset color and served over ice. It’s sweet, citrusy, and practically a staple at church potlucks, intimate gatherings, and many local restaurants. In short, it’s not just tea, it’s a Southern hospitality in a glass.
Why Fruit Tea
Because in Columbia, fruit tea means something. It’s what you hand a first-time visitor and what you crave on a warm Tennessee afternoon. Over the years, it has become a shared ritual, a small but powerful thread connecting neighbors and generations. Some local restaurants have their own version, every family has a favorite, and everyone has an opinion. That sense of tradition is what turns a simple glass of tea into something uniquely Columbia.
Fruit Tea Trail
The Fruit Tea Trail is your invitation to explore local restaurants and cafés, each serving up their own refreshing twist on this beloved Southern favorite. From classic blends to creative seasonal flavors, every stop offers a new taste and a new reason to linger a little longer in Muletown. Grab your friends, make a day of it, and experience Columbia one delicious glass at a time.
Columbia's CommuniTea
Julie Webster, along with her family, has owned and operated JJ’s Barbecue in Columbia for more than 25 years. When the restaurant first opened, Julie created JJ’s signature fruit tea recipe, one that quickly became a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
Known for its welcoming atmosphere and delicious barbecue, JJ’s has long been a place where people gather to share good food, good company, and, of course, a glass of fruit tea. Over the years, that simple tradition has become a meaningful part of Columbia’s food culture.
Today, JJ’s fruit tea continues to be enjoyed by generations of locals, carrying forward a tradition that has long been part of Columbia’s story.
