What we're sipping: A mocktail for Dry January
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Illustration: Maura Losch/Axios
I am increasingly a fan of Callisto, a tropical-themed bar that you enter behind a painting at an art gallery in downtown Bentonville — this time for a reason that wasn't on my checklist.
🍹 State of play: The first time I went, I tried signature cocktails and was sold. On a recent booze-free night, I ordered off the nonalcoholic menu. While no mocktail is going to fool me or anyone else, the Admiral's Pardon ($12) made for an enjoyable sipper that made me feel like I wasn't missing out in a bar where most people are presumably drinking the real stuff.
- It had ginger, orange, lime and zero-proof rum in key with the tropical vibes. Much better, albeit more expensive, than a plain old soda.
🚫 Reality check: I never order mocktails and have joked that I'm allergic. But I tried a few at different bars on a night before a surgery (I'm fine) when I was straight edge, per doctor's orders. Callisto's was my favorite.
- So if you're taking a break from alcohol, don't drink or are cutting back, bars that put real effort into their nonalcoholic options can make it easier to join in on the scene if you'd like.
🤤 Zoom out: This visit also marked my second time trying food, and I'd be remiss if I didn't tell you to order this sesame maple pork belly skewer ($18). It was unbelievably tender and might get you out of your head more than a cocktail would.
📍 Stop by: 4-11pm Sunday, Tuesday and Wednesday; 4pm to midnight Thursday; 4pm-1am Friday and Saturday at 407 SW A St. in Bentonville