This time of year, mocktails are all the rage. During the first month of the new year, thousands of Americans participate in Dry January — a month-long challenge that encourages people to refocus, cleanse their systems + abstain from alcohol consumption for one month.
We get it — this challenge can be tough. That’s why we’re offering up our favorite mocktail recipe, as well as our favorite spots around town to snag a booze-less beverage.
Out on the town
Belle’s Cocktail House
, 156 Market St.
- Naked in the Garden — cucumber-infused seltzer, lemon juice, strawberry kiwi shrub, lemon slices, strawberry halves, cucumber slices + a flower garnish
- Strawberry Mojito — seltzer muddled with strawberries, lime + mint with a fresh mint garnish.
Mirror Twin Brewing
, 725 National Ave.
- Mango Mule — cucumber, honey, mango juice, fresh lime juice, non-alcoholic ginger beer + ice
- Virgin Paloma — lime juice, grapefruit juice, agave syrup + kosher salt
The Thirsty Fox at Zim’s Cafe
, 215 W. Main St.
- New Age Old Fashioned — Spiritless whiskey, Angostura bitters, demerara sugar
- Funny Wood — grapefruit juice, lemon juice, grapefruit syrup + sprite
At home
The Mock Mint Julep
This recipe is a refreshingly booze-free rendition of a Kentucky classic. It found a place in our hearts because it uses our favorite local soda — Ale-8-One.
Ingredients
- Four mint sprigs
- 2 cups of cold water
- 48-oz. Of Ale-8-One
- 1 ½ cups of sugar
- ¾ cup of fresh lemon juice
- Thin lemon slices
Instructions
- Rinse the mint + trim off stems
- Combine sugar, water + lemon juice in a large bowl
- Clap mint leaves to release flavor + stir into bowl. Let stand for 30 minutes.
- Fill a large pitcher with ice + stir in the liquid.
- Add Ale-8-One + lemon slices.
- Pour over ice in your favorite mocktail glassware.