I had just finished having an early dinner with a friend. We had both ordered nonalcoholic spicy margaritas and they were delicious. As we left the restaurant and passed by the patio we overheard a woman ask the waiter, "Do you have any nonalcoholic options?" It was in that moment that I realized this sober curious movement wasn't just for larger cities, it was hitting my hometown of Huntsville. Of course there has always been a fair amount of the population who doesn't imbibe (over 30% in fact), but in the past decade a growing awareness surrounding alcohol and its damaging effects has been building into a sober curious movement. A movement ignited by Gen Z and Millennials because they had felt the effects of alcohol on their own lives and had seen the effects of alcohol on their parents. As a Gen Zer told us, "Alcohol just never helped me be my best." This choosing zero proof drinks isn't just for nondrinkers, many people are taking a break from alcohol here and there for a reset. Maybe it is a night off or a month off, but more and more people are asking for nonalcoholic options for health reasons, for clarity and focus at work, or just wanting to wake up feeling good.
If you are looking for zero proof options around town - we have scouted them for you!
La Esquina
La Esquina can do several versions of nonalcoholic margaritas on the rocks. With seasonal flavors they can offer a strawberry, blackberry, or pineapple. Make sure to ask for their spicy salt around the rim.
Stella's Elixir Lounge
Stella's will make you something special according to your palette. Just tell them what flavors you like and they will shake it up and make it oh-so pretty.
Domaine South
Tell them 'sweet' or 'spicy' and the bartender will concoct you something delicious. I always ask for spicy and every time it is delicious.
Le Petite Bijoux
Ready to pour options like Phony Negroni and Hi-Yo are stocked at this intimate European style cafe on Huntsville's historic downtown square.
The Revitalist
Located inside The Jefferson Hotel, The Revitalist serves tasty nonalcoholic drinks using seasonal flavors and housemade syrups.
Char
Not only do their bartenders serve up delicious zero proof drinks, they offer mocktails on the menu.
Phat Sammy's
This underground tiki bar is a must not just because of its funky decor, but also its cocktail menu.
STOCK YOUR OWN BAR
Want to stock your own bar at home? Here are my favorites:
Beer
The best beer which can be picked dup locally at Whole Foods Market is Athletic Brewing. Try their Run Wild IPA or their Extra Dark Stout. Another delicious stout option is the Guinness Zero. For something fun and light, Bud Zero is quite tasty, especially with a little salt and lime.
Sparkling
Founded by Maggie Frerejean-Taittinger (of the Champagne Taittinger family), French Bloom is by far the best nonalcoholic sparkling option out there. Tingly on the tongue, celebratory, and just the right amount of bubbles. Another fun sparkling is Gruvi's Drysecco - delicious and it is great to make spritzes with, you can find it at Liquor Express.
Wine
My go-to for wonderful nonalcoholic wine options is The Wine Cellar on Whitesburg Drive.
Spirits
Liquor Express has a good selection of various nonalcoholic brands. I love Lyre's and Drink Monday.
Drinks In A Can
There are so options now with mushrooms, adaptagens, vitamins, and more - it is quite incredible. My favorites include Kinz Euphorics, Little Saints, and Hi-Yo. Hi-Yo of course canoe found at Le Petite Bijoux's market.
When it comes to nonalcoholic choices, the world is truly your oyster. So whether you're trying Dry January, have decided alcohol doesn't serve you anymore, or you just need a break every now and again, be curious - there's so much out there to try and you just may feel better doing it.
This choosing zero proof drinks isn't just for nondrinkers, many people are taking a break from alcohol here and there for a reset.
So whether you're trying Dry January, have decided alcohol doesn't serve you anymore, or you just need a break every now and again, be curious.
