One of the most exciting things about New York City is that there’s always something to do and somewhere to go, no matter where you go or what time it is. After all, there’s a reason why the Big Apple is known as the city that never sleeps! New York City has always been known for its vibrant nightlife, buzzing cocktail bars, and sultry speakeasies. With that being said, what happens if you’re sober or you’re just not a heavy drinker? Don’t even worry about it – you can still have fun because the city’s ever-evolving drinking culture is making more and more non-alcoholic bars pop up everywhere. Like we said – there’s always something to do and somewhere to go, no matter where you go or what time it is!
So put down your flat soda water with a sad, yellowing wedge of lime or boring mocktail that’s really just pineapple and orange juice with a colorful paper umbrella leaned carelessly against the side of your glass! New York is home to several bars that serve creative non-alcoholic mocktails, zero-proof spirits, and even host sober social events for that social butterfly in you. You get the same bustling energy and atmosphere as any regular ol’ bar, and the good news is that you won’t wake up with a killer hangover the next day! That said, it doesn’t mean you aren’t allowed to treat yourself to a greasy, perfectly cheesy bacon egg and cheese as a hangover cure the next morning, because you definitely should.
Here’s a quick guide to some of the best bars in NYC that have non-alcoholic options so you can sip on something special… minus the buzz, of course.
***
- Hekate Café & Elixir Lounge – 167 Avenue B, New York, NY 10009
“Hekate is an intimate sober bar and bottle shop serving 0ABV beers and wines, as well as a vast array of delicious alcohol free cocktails. We are #1 on the list of Best Sober Bars in America! Our convivial community space welcomes anyone seeking an alternative to boozy bars. Come for an elixir, stay for a spell!”
Cozied away in the East Village, Hekate Café & Elixir Lounge is a café and cocktail bar with a witchy, mystical vibe – perfect for those who enjoy a little touch of magic with their drinks. Named after the Greek goddess of magic, witchcraft, the night, moon, ghosts, and necromancy, the space is filled with clusters of waxy, dripping candles, decorative skulls, and tons of tarot decks. By day, it’s a relaxing spot to sip on some herbal teas or coffee, but by night, it transforms into a moody bar that serves a large variety of herbal elixirs, drinks, and creative cocktails.
- Sleepy Sangria: “Like watching a sunset through an apple orchard from the cozy confines of Alphabet City.”
- Gator Charmer: “Orange and blood orange special with herbal notes to remind us of warmer days ahead. Citrus & sweet.”
***
- Rent Money Lounge – 85 Stanton St, New York, NY 10002
“By day, Rent Money Lounge delivers a classic coffee menu. By night, the space transforms, embracing a speakeasy-style ambiance. Guests can enjoy the evening with mocktails and adaptogenic drinks, crafted to invigorate the senses and offer something new to add to an evening out.”
Rent Money Lounge is located in the Lower East Side – a hidden gem that blends that classic dive bar charm with a touch of 70s retro glamour, it’s definitely worth checking out! There’s vintage decor, velvet couches, and why not admire the spinning disco ball from the ceiling as you enjoy your drink? It’s a chill, laid-back spot that makes playful non-alcoholic cocktails as well as an array of herbal teas, coffees, and other special drinks you’ll have to go and try!
- Curious Elixir No. 5: “Ceremonial Matcha, Agave n/a Spirit, Lemon, Ginger”
- Roses & Chill: “Lemon, Rose Petal Infusion, finished with Ashwagandha”
***
- Hidden Tiger – 13th St & 14th St, 212 Avenue A, New York, NY 10009
“At Hidden Tiger, we are passionate about creating delicious and high-quality drinks using fresh ingredients. Our mixology team has years of experience and is dedicated to providing an exceptional experience.”
Hidden Tiger is a sleek, low-key spot that is every bit as discreet, stylish, and cool as its name. Behind an unmarked door in the East Village reveals a more refined, intimate setting with moody lighting, minimalist decor, and an overall calm vibe that would be perfect for a night out with friends or even a first date spot. The drink menu is elegant and exciting at the same time, and the drinks use Asian-inspired ingredients and bold flavors to create delicious non-alcoholic cocktails that’ll leave you wanting more!
- The Tunnel: “Ritual Proof Tequila, pineapple juice, orange-vanilla syrup, lime. A Tiki inspired zero proof funk flex banger!”
- Latin Quarter: “Seedlip Garden, mint, simple syrup, soda, lime. Tastes like the classic Mojito without the hangover.”
***
- Swan Room – 54 Canal St, New York, NY 10002
“Swan Room is an elegant space. Dress for a night out.”
Don’t let that description intimidate you from visiting The Swan Room. Located inside the Nine Orchard hotel on the Lower East Side, The Swan Room does a beautiful job at blending old-money elegance and modern glam. The space practically drips with sophistication with high ceilings and plush velvet seats under a glowing, twinkling chandelier. It’s a perfect spot for sipping on carefully crafted cocktails or bubbly champagne in luxurious style.
- Chinola Mule: “Almave Blanco, passionfruit, lime, spicy ginger soda.”
- Boscanova Spritz: “Pentire Coastal Spritz, bosc pear, lemon, Lyre’s classico sparkling.”
***
- Café Mado – 791 Washington Avenue, Brooklyn, NY 11238
“Much of our inspiration comes from further south, from the deep culinary traditions of the French and Italian Riviera. Expect the same thoughtful and produce-forward cooking of Chef Nico Russell and our talented team across our sister restaurants.”
Café Mado is a charming spot that feels like your very own European daydream. With Mediterranean and French influences as well as soft lighting and vintage-inspired décor, the place welcomes you with its inviting atmosphere that’s great for chatting over coffee. It’s the kind of place that makes you feel at home, and despite it being more of a café than a bar, they still offer non-alcoholic cocktails that are just as delicate and delightful as Café Mado.
- Jasmine & Pear: “Floral Fruit.”
- Coconut Tarragon: “Notas de agave, spice.”
***
OH, THE PLACES YOU’LL GO!
With such a large variety of different places with unique, non-alcoholic options, it’s obvious as to why the trend of non-alcoholic bars and menus in New York City continues to grow and expand.
Whether you’re exploring sobriety, cutting back on alcohol, looking for healthier alternatives to traditional cocktails, or simply looking for social spaces that don’t rely heavily on drinking, New York has plenty of spaces that will let you enjoy your night out without feeling like you’re missing out!