Reel Sips Opened in Downtown Cleveland
The new shop at 815 Superior Blvd. East offers movie-themed dirty sodas to local customers.
Updated on Oct. 6, 2026 in Openings & Closings
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Owner Cara DiBenedetto opened the dirty soda shop Reel Sips in downtown Cleveland on September 3, 2026. The new business serves movie-themed beverages featuring a mix of soda, flavored syrups, cream, and various toppings.
Why it matters
The shop provides a new creative outlet for DiBenedetto, who moved to Cleveland after she was unable to find an affordable location for the business in Boston. She self-funded the venture using her life savings after testing the unique drink combinations with friends.
The shop is located at 815 Superior Blvd. East and operates Tuesday through Saturday between the hours of 11 a.m. and 6 p.m.
The players
Cara DiBenedetto
She is the founder and owner of the downtown Cleveland business who previously worked in a corporate office.
Reel Sips
This is a new movie-themed dirty soda shop that also serves as a Vinted drop-off location.
The details
Reel Sips also functions as a Vinted drop-off location for the community. The owner navigated the required licensing, permits, and inspections to bring the concept to the downtown area.
Timeline
Reel Sips opened in downtown Cleveland on September 3, 2026.
New menu items including Dippin' Dots, floats, and slushies are planned for next summer.
Market Landscape
The emergence of Reel Sips highlights the growing national spread of the Utah dirty soda trend as independent entrepreneurs seek specialized niches. This move reflects a broader shift toward unique, experience-based retail outlets that differentiate themselves from traditional chain beverage providers.
Residents can now visit the shop during its Tuesday through Saturday operating hours to purchase movie-themed drinks. The business also provides added convenience for local Vinted users by serving as an official drop-off location.
The takeaway
The opening illustrates how individual entrepreneurs are leveraging personal savings to bring niche regional food trends into new local markets. Aspiring business owners may find success by testing concepts with friends before investing in the permits and physical space required for a launch.
What happens next
The shop plans to expand its menu by adding Dippin' Dots, floats, and slushies during the summer of 2027.
Further reading
For more on new local businesses, visit the Cleveland Openings & Closings section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Cleveland.
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