How Do You Order Non-Alcoholic Drinks at a Bar?
You’re going to a bar, but don’t want to drink alcohol. What do you do? Over the last several years this has become a more common scenario. Bar menus now cater to non-drinkers or those that simply want to cut back for the night. And thankfully, options have become tastier and fun!
Ordering a non-alcoholic drink at a bar is not simply asking for a soda. Behind the bar are lots of tasty ingredients that can be used to make a flavorful mocktail.
Can you ask the bartender to make a mocktail?
Zero-proof cocktails are becoming mainstream. Many bars and restaurants now have non-alcoholic drinks directly on the menu.
You can also ask the bartender to make you a mocktail if you don’t see alcohol-free options on their menu.
If you do get some hesitation when inquiring about mocktail options, you could ask them to make you a “virgin” version of your favorite cocktail. Historically, this term has been commonly used to order non-alcoholic beverages. If it’s loud and crowded, simply ask the bartender for a “virgin mojito” or “virgin margarita” and you should be good to go.
If you can’t think of something in particular, you can tell the bartender, “I’m not drinking tonight but want something fun to sip on with my friends” to show your intentions. You don’t need to feel self-conscious about ordering an alcohol-free drink at the bar. The bartender is there to make sure you have a drink in your hand.
What is a good non-alcoholic drink to order in a bar?
The best mocktails are made with non-alcoholic spirits. These alcohol-free spirits taste identical to their full-proof counterparts and have up to 90% fewer calories. Next time you’re not drinking ask the bartender if they have any non-alcoholic spirits behind the bar. If they do, your opportunities are endless! You can order a non-alcoholic version of your favorite cocktail, whether that’s a Paloma, Whiskey Sour, Moscow Mule, or a Tom Collins.
If non-alcoholic spirits are not available, your best bet is natural ingredients. Ask the bartender if they have any fresh fruit or herbs. Citrus is also a refreshing ingredient. Ask for a combination of some of your favorite flavors, and ask for a garnish! Below are some easy 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
• Orange juice and ginger beer, with an orange garnish
How are mocktails served?
Just like cocktails, mocktails require mixology and are a treat! As such, they should be served in a cocktail glass. The bartender should have all the classics: highball, lowball, martini, margarita, poco grande, and copper mugs. If you’re ordering a virgin version of your favorite cocktail, it will go in the same glass the original is served in. Otherwise, let the bartender know if you have a preference.
No one should be able to tell you’re drinking a mocktail! It should look exactly like a regular cocktail when served to you. When ordering a mocktail, ask the bartender to get creative! Most love being able to express themselves and show off their creativity. Giving them some freedom means you end up with a very fancy-looking drink!
Order it Spiritless
Spiritless non-alcoholic bourbon and non-alcoholic tequila are perfect liquor substitutes for crafting an authentic drink. Whether you’re sober curious, participating in a month-long sober challenge, or just need to wake up early in the morning, Spiritless is here for you to live fully, but drink differently.
