As the calendar flips to a new year, many of us embark on a journey of self-improvement, setting (let’s be honest, often unrealistic) resolutions and seeking healthier lifestyles. One trend that has gained significant traction in recent years is Dry January – a month-long commitment to swapping Margaritas for mocktails. While the idea of staying away from your favourite tipple may seem daunting at first, fear not, as this is an opportunity to explore a vibrant world of non-alcoholic beverages.
I am diving headfirst into the realm of Dry January, highlighting the best bars and restaurants that offer creative, alcohol-free options to make this the month of absinthe… I mean abstinence. So whether you decide to go teetotal, or simply opt for a “damp” January, these destinations will redefine your perspective on socialising sans alcohol.
Torstig
Brighton’s celebrated alcohol-free bar, Torstig, is making a splash in London’s Hoxton for a brief two-week stint from January 5th to 20th. The folks at Alcohol Change UK have given it the nod as the Official Bar of Dry January. Aptly named Torstig, a nod to the Danish word for “thirsty,” this establishment is the endeavour of Luke and Emmi, a dynamic duo on a mission to embrace Copenhagen’s low and no-alcohol culture. Crafting their alcohol-free concoctions with meticulous attention, they’re on par with the classics.
93 Kingsland Road, E2 8AE
Bossa
This year, Bossa is taking a bold step by featuring Everleaf as its primary non-alcoholic spirit. It’s a treat all on its own, even with just tonic – delivering a light and refreshing experience. Feeling adventurous? Dive into the ‘Evergreen,’ a non-alcoholic gin sour infused with Everleaf Marine, shisho leaf, lemon, and shisho bitters. Rooted in their Brazilian heritage, Bossa has reimagined the classic ‘Swiss Lemonade,’ typically a blend of water, lime, and condensed milk. They’ve given it a twist by using cold-brewed jasmine tea and whole lime to introduce a delightful acidity. And, they’re not stopping there – a unique South American herb, Yerba mate, takes centre stage in one of their mocktails.
4 Vere Street, W1G 0DG
Scales
Nestled beneath Drink with Sasha on Duke Street, Scales is where the cocktail craft takes on a stylish edge. Their in-house lab is a hub of innovation, and it’s no surprise they’ve also teamed up with Everleaf spirits to concoct an enticing non-alcoholic cocktail menu. Expect delicious alternatives, thanks to Everleaf’s innovative alcohol-free formulas.
25 Duke Street, W1U 1DJ
Cavita
Close your eyes and let Cavita whisk you away from the rain and into sun-soaked Mexico. Located on vibrant Wigmore Street in Marylebone, their fabulous range of non-alcoholic cocktails will make you feel like you’re sitting on a beach. Well, almost. Dive into the reimagined Mexican classic, the ‘No Es Margarita,’ a refreshing blend of lemongrass tea, zesty lime, and citrus fruit syrup. Or the ‘Nopa Loma,’ a fusion of cranberry juice, sparkling grapefruit soda, lime, and ripe raspberries, delivering a burst of Mexican zest.
Traditionalists, don’t miss out on their homemade Horchata, a creamy drink crafted from rice milk, sweet sugar, fragrant cinnamon, and juicy strawberries. Pair these with Chef Owner Adriana Cavita’s authentic Mexican dishes in the main restaurant or venture downstairs to the Mayahuel bar for drinks and snacks.
60 Wigmore Street, W1U 2RZ
London Stock
London Stock isn’t just about delighting your taste buds with its tasting menu; their mocktail selection is equally impressive. If you’re craving something sweet – let’s not take away all enjoyment in January – go for the ‘Cherry Soda,’ a tasty concoction of cherry syrup, citrus, and soda. Feeling a tad experimental? Try the ‘Cactus Fig Iced Tea,’ a blend of prickly pear loose leaf with fresh lemon and sugar. And for the spritz enthusiasts, there’s the ‘Hibiscus Fresh Fizz,’ featuring homemade hibiscus syrup, lung ching brew, and lemonade.
6 Sackville Street, W1S 3DD
