Unique Products and Nostalgic Staples
Kanpai Soda Shop is sure to become a favorite for customers of all ages! This new addition to the Decorah Downtown District, located at 404 W Water Street, offers a wide variety of soda choices, specialty candy, Pinter’s Gardens and Pumpkins popcorn, and Sprecher’s Root beer on tap. Kanpai is open 7 days a week, making this the person spot for fueling up when out on a walk or preparing for an upcoming event!
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What else can you find at Kanpai Soda Shop? More than 30 varieties of root beer, the Nehi grape soda made popular by Radar on the television show M*A*S*H (we hear Nehi soda was also brewed in Decorah at one time!), and – if you visit on Friday or Saturday – delicious Pinter’s Cupcakes.
Meet the Owner: Chad Gossling
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Owner Chad Gossling is a graduate of the University of Iowa where he majored in Japanese. The name of his business – Kanpai – means “Cheers!” in Japanese (A close English pronunciation is ‘come-pie’). Chad loves a Japanese soda called Ramune and its difficulty to procure was one of the motivating factors for him to start the shop in early 2024. Ramune soda is now perhaps the most unique set of bottles in his store – as they are sealed with a glass marble. The experience to open Ramune is fun and surprising and if you purchase one – staff will make sure you know the way to open it.
Chad is excited to share the unique products with Decorah residents and visitors alike. He is also pleased to offer a “hang-out” spot where youth can feel comfortable.
Locals’ Favorite Finds
Decorah Area Chamber of Commerce Ambassadors, exactly like kids in a candy shop, had fun perusing all the beverages, treats, and sweets when Kanpai Soda Shop’s Ribbon Cutting event took place. Chris found a soda (Dog n Suds) made in his home town of Eau Claire, WI. Tara found a “Serenity” soda, which provided a fun connection to her business Serenity Fitness across the street. And Joanie had a nostalgic moment with the Wax Lips. How fun! The Chamber Ambassadors were joined by Chad’s family, friends, and supporters for the ribbon cutting – some of whom had a clear soda favorite and others who were keeping their options open.
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