Seattle's mocktail scene keeps growing
Add Axios as your preferred source to
see more of our stories on Google.
A row of colorful mocktails are a testament to Seattle's growing interest in booze-free alternatives. Photo courtesy of Aerlume and Visit Seattle
Seattleites who embraced Dry January don't have to pack away their nonalcoholic spirits and sober socializing just yet — many bars and restaurants are making sure the booze-free fun continues into February and beyond.
Why it matters: As more people rethink their approach to alcohol, Seattle's hospitality scene is leaning into the sober-curious movement year-round.
State of play: Local bars boast zero-proof cocktail menus and the city's high-end restaurants have started offering nonalcoholic beverage pairings.
What they're saying: "Mocktails are not just a trend; they're a reflection of our evolving relationship with wellness and socializing," Scott McDowell, the general manager of the restaurant Aerlume, told Axios.
- The upscale restaurant near Pike Place Market offers two mocktails on its menu: the Cucumber Fresh, a crisp blend of fresh cucumber, mint, lime, agave and soda, and the Pike Place Sipper, a floral and citrusy mix of lavender, lime, rose water and soda.
Zoom in: Here are just a few of our favorite spots shaking up alcohol-free drinks with the same creativity and flair that bars once reserved for their boozy counterparts.
- At El Gaucho Seattle, try What We Drink in the Shadows, a bold mix of Seedlip Spice, Pathfinder, strawberry purée, lemon and toasted black sesame syrup.
- Sabine offers customizable nonalcoholic (NA) gin and tonics along with non-alcoholic sparkling wine in white or rosé for a refined sip.
- Poquitos serves a refreshing nonalcoholic margarita, blending NA tequila with housemade sour mix in any classic margarita flavor, alongside a selection of booze-free beers.
Plus: Want to shop the shelves to create your own libation? Check out Cheeky and Dry, a nonalcoholic bottle shop in Phinney Ridge, for seltzers, canned mocktails, brews, sparkling wines and mixers.
Make one at home
Rhein Haus Seattle shared its recipe for a tart cherry and ginger-infused drink with us, made with a combo of nonalcoholic amaro and NA beer.
Sausage Party
- 1.5 oz Dr. Zero Zero
- 2 oz Suntory All-Free
- 0.5 oz tart cherry juice
- 0.5 oz ginger syrup
- 0.5 oz lemon juice
- Mint sprigs & cherry (garnish)
Instructions: Pour 2 oz Suntory All-Free into a Collins glass. Shake the Dr. Zero Zero, tart cherry juice, ginger syrup, and lemon juice with ice, then strain into the glass. Add fresh ice and garnish with mint sprigs and a cherry.
What's next: Enjoy!