Arielle Cruz
Whether you're the designated driver for the night or just taking a break from drinking, there are plenty of non-alcoholic options to choose from at bars. From alcohol-free spirits to creative mocktails, you can enjoy a delicious drink without compromising your values or health. Bartenders are increasingly accommodating a variety of fun, zero-proof beverages, so don't be afraid to experiment and find your new favourite drink!
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Non-alcoholic drinks that resemble alcoholic drinks | Virgin cocktails, such as Mojito, Piña Colada, Bloody Mary, Moscow Mule, and non-alcoholic beer |
| Creative bartenders | Bartenders can get creative and make non-alcoholic versions of classic cocktails |
| Common non-alcoholic drinks | Soda water with citrus (lemon, lime, orange juice), lemonade, iced tea, ginger beer, kombucha, Shirley Temple, Roy Rogers, etc. |
| Non-alcoholic spirits | Seedlip, Spiritless non-alcoholic bourbon and tequila, Lyre's Amaretti |
| Customization | Bartenders can customize drinks based on preferences, such as reducing sweetness or adding specific ingredients |
| Health-conscious options | Zero-proof beverages, sugar-free options, natural ingredients, and fresh fruit or herbs |
| Visual appeal | Drinks can be served in elegant glassware, with garnishes, and bold colors to make them visually appealing |
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Non-alcoholic cocktails
There are plenty of non-alcoholic cocktails to choose from when you're at a bar. You could ask the bartender to make you a mocktail or a "virgin" version of your favourite cocktail. If you're a fan of a mojito, for example, simply ask for a virgin mojito, which contains all the same ingredients (fresh mint leaves, lime juice, a touch of sugar and soda water) minus the rum.
Another option is to ask the bartender to surprise you. If they're well-trained and creative, they may be able to serve you a new non-alcoholic drink that becomes your go-to order. You could also ask for a non-alcoholic version of a classic cocktail, such as a Paloma, Whiskey Sour, Moscow Mule, Tom Collins or a Piña Colada.
If you're looking for something a little healthier, ask the bartender if they have any fresh fruit or herbs. You could ask for a combination of your favourite flavours and a garnish. Here are some options:
- Sparkling water, simple syrup, mint leaves and lime juice with a lime garnish
- Muddled strawberries, club soda and basil leaves with a strawberry garnish
- Pomegranate juice, tonic and lemon juice with a lemon garnish
- Grapefruit juice, lime juice, agave syrup and club soda with a grapefruit garnish
If you're at a bar with craft sodas, you could try a Roy Rogers, which is made with coke, grenadine and maraschino cherries. If you're looking for something more tropical, a Pineapple Mint Julep is a great option, made with pineapple juice, muddled mint leaves and a splash of soda water.
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Mocktails
One of the simplest ways to order a mocktail at a bar is to ask for a virgin cocktail, where the bartender simply omits the alcohol from a classic cocktail. Examples include a virgin mojito, made with soda water, sugar, and mint, or a virgin piña colada, made with mock rum syrup, pineapple juice, and coconut milk. A virgin Bloody Mary is another good option, made with tomato juice, various seasonings, and optional olive or pickle juice for added bitterness. You can also ask for a non-alcoholic version of a margarita, packed with fresh citrus flavour and sweetened with agave syrup.
If you're looking for something more creative, many bartenders are now skilled at crafting unique mocktails. You can simply ask the bartender to surprise you, or give them some guidelines, such as flavours you like or dislike. For example, you could ask for a mocktail with seasonal berries or a festive drink with a twist.
Some other mocktail ideas to try include a blend of ginger beer with cranberry juice, a non-alcoholic G&T made with chamomile, cardamom, mint, cloves, and rosemary, or a refreshing summer spritz made with green tea, mango, fresh mint, lime, and ice.
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Non-alcoholic beer
The production of non-alcoholic beer involves using the same ingredients as standard beer, such as water, malt, hops, and yeast. Brewers employ various techniques to control or eliminate the alcohol content. One method is to use special non-fermenting ingredients that prevent the alcohol level from exceeding 0.5% ABV (or 1.2% for "low alcohol" beers). Another approach is to heat the beverage until the alcohol evaporates or pass it through a fine mesh to separate the alcohol from the flavoured parts, a technique called reverse osmosis. Additionally, some brewers blend the beer with non-alcoholic mixers like lemon or flavoured soda, resulting in drinks like radler or shandy.
In recent years, there has been a growing trend towards non-alcoholic craft beers. Leading brewers in this space have developed innovative, secretive methods to create non-alcoholic beers that taste remarkably similar to their alcoholic counterparts, without adding sweeteners. These beers offer a fresher and bolder flavour profile, often indistinguishable from traditional craft beers. Some notable brands in this category include Rightside Brewing, Athletic Brewing Company, Ceria Brewing, Partake, and Dogfish Head.
When ordering non-alcoholic beer at a bar, you can expect a variety of options. Many bars now offer NA beers, and some even specialise in low-alcohol or alcohol-free beverages. You can also explore non-alcoholic versions of classic cocktails, like a Moscow Mule or a Virgin Bloody Mary. These drinks provide the same great taste without the alcohol, and your bartender can get creative by adding their favourite bitters or substitutes. So, whether you're the designated driver, taking a break from alcohol, or simply making healthier choices, non-alcoholic beer is a fantastic choice to consider when ordering at a bar.
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Virgin drinks
Virgin Mojito
A refreshing choice, the virgin mojito is made with soda water, sugar, and generous mint leaves. The only difference between this and its alcoholic counterpart is the omission of rum. You can also ask for a "muddled" version, which includes muddled fresh mint leaves and lime juice, topped with soda water.
Virgin Piña Colada
A tropical escape in a glass, the Virgin Piña Colada combines creamy coconut milk and sweet pineapple juice. To enhance its visual appeal, add crushed ice and a pineapple wedge. This drink is a must-have for any bar offering non-alcoholic options.
Virgin Dark and Stormy
A bold and full-bodied option, the Virgin Dark and Stormy is perfect for those who typically enjoy spirits but are looking for a non-alcoholic alternative. It is made with ginger beer, lime juice, and a splash of non-alcoholic dark rum alternatives.
Virgin Moscow Mule
Traditionally made with vodka, ginger beer, lime juice, and mint, the Moscow Mule can easily be transformed into a virgin drink by simply omitting the vodka. This drink is loaded with flavor and is a great base for many non-alcoholic variations.
Virgin Bloody Mary
A classic brunch cocktail, the Bloody Mary can be made without alcohol by simply leaving out the vodka. To add a bit of bitterness, ask for olive or pickle juice. This drink is overflowing with flavor and is a great option for those looking for a savory, spicy beverage.
Virgin Margaritas
Margaritas are a traditional cocktail that can easily be made without alcohol. Ask for some extra citrus to cut through the sweetness of the margarita mix, or try one of the many non-alcoholic tequila alternatives available.
When ordering virgin drinks at a bar, don't be afraid to get creative and experiment with different options. Many bartenders are skilled in crafting non-alcoholic beverages, so you can simply ask them to surprise you or make a "virgin" version of your favorite cocktail. Enjoy exploring the world of virgin drinks and finding your new favorites!
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Soft drinks
Virgin Cocktails
A popular choice for those avoiding alcohol is to order a virgin or mocktail version of classic cocktails. Simply ask the bartender to omit the alcohol from your favourite cocktail, whether it's a Mojito, Piña Colada, Margarita, or something else entirely. Virgin cocktails often retain the same flavour profile as their alcoholic counterparts, so you don't have to miss out on taste.
Non-Alcoholic Beer and Wine
If you're usually a beer or wine drinker, you can now find non-alcoholic versions of these beverages at many bars. Non-alcoholic beer (NA beer) has become increasingly popular, with options such as Heineken 0.0, Athletic Brewing Co. Run Wild, and Lagunitas IPNA. For wine lovers, there are also non-alcoholic wines available, allowing you to enjoy the taste without the alcohol content.
Soda Water with Citrus
A simple yet refreshing option is to order soda water or club soda with a splash of citrus. Add lime, orange juice, lemon juice, or a twist of any citrus fruit you prefer to create a tangy and hydrating drink. This option is also similar in appearance to many alcoholic drinks, so it's a good choice if you'd like to keep your drink preferences discreet.
Ginger Beer and Kombucha
Ginger beer is a flavourful base for many non-alcoholic drinks. You can order a traditional Moscow Mule without the vodka, or mix ginger beer with cranberry juice for a tart and potent combination. Kombucha is another beverage to consider; it's bubbly, tart, and full of flavour, resembling an adult beverage without the alcohol (though it does contain a very small amount of alcohol due to natural fermentation).
Iced Tea and Lemonade
On a hot day, few things beat a refreshing glass of iced tea or lemonade. You can even combine the two to make an Arnold Palmer, adjusting the ratios to suit your taste preferences. These drinks are simple yet satisfying and are often readily available at bars.
Remember, you can always ask your bartender for recommendations or request a custom non-alcoholic creation if you're feeling adventurous. The world of non-alcoholic drinks is expanding, so you're sure to find something to suit your tastes!
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Frequently asked questions
Some good non-alcoholic drinks to order at a bar include virgin cocktails like the Mojito, Piña Colada, Bloody Mary, and the Moscow Mule. You can also order non-alcoholic beer, wine, or spirits.
You can simply ask the bartender for a "virgin" version of your favorite cocktail, such as a "virgin mojito" or "virgin margarita". If you don't have a preference, you can also ask the bartender to surprise you with a non-alcoholic drink.
Non-alcoholic beers, also known as NA beers, are very similar to their alcoholic counterparts and are widely available at bars.
Yes, there are non-alcoholic wine options available that can be used to make cocktails like wine spritzers or rosé topped with sparkling water.
You can easily make non-alcoholic drinks at home by using fresh ingredients and natural flavors. For example, you can mix ginger beer with cranberry juice or make a classic Shirley Temple with lemonade, grenadine, and a maraschino cherry.
