Made with real sugar. New Bern, North Carolina is the birthplace of Pepsi. Local pharmacist Caleb Bradham invented the drink and in 1898 first served Pepsi-Cola at the soda fountain in his drugstore. The refreshing beverage became so popular that he began bottling and selling it throughout the region. Today, Pepsi is sold all over the world, but its roots will always be tied to the Carolinas.