In the Spirit of Dry January: Where to Find Spirit-less Beverages that Sparkle
Many of you have heard of, and possibly participated in, “Dry January” over the past few years. But, do you know when and WHY the phenomenon began?
Alcohol Concern (now called Alcohol Change UK) initiated the first official Dry January campaign in 2013 after employee Emily Robinson had taken a month off from drinking in preparation for a half marathon. Throughout the month, she slept better, lost weight, and gained additional energy to run, and these benefits sparked conversation amongst the team, curious if others would benefit from taking an intentional break from consuming alcohol. Nearly 4,000 people participated in Dry January 2013, and now, over 130,000 people take part 10 years later.
So, where can you find NA beverages that captivate your taste buds in downtown Raleigh? When you live, work, and play in an area overflowing with bars and restaurants that have creative cocktail menus, abstaining can be difficult; however, below are five locations that can help keep you on track during the month of January (and beyond, if you choose!)
Killjoy - Bars that dedicate time and thoughtful consideration to their mocktail menus are a dream (especially when they whip up beverages like the Orange Dreamsicle crafted with orange, vanilla, and cream topped with club soda.) Tucked away on North West Street, Killjoy has placed significance on integrating spirit-free beverages on their cocktail menu since they opened. Their knowledgeable staff are devoted to creating a unique guest experience, so if you don’t know what you want, share your favorite flavors or aromas with them, and they’ll craft something special for you. Click here to view their current mocktail menu. {Want to take things a step further and immerse yourself in the zero-proof experience? Join their mocktail class on Jan. 17!} 116 N. West St.
Sitti Authentic Lebanese - Home to authentic Lebanese cuisine, Sitti carries an array of spirit-free beverages filled with fruity flavors including passion fruit, pomegranate, and lemon, that pair perfectly with their pita and za’atar-spiced entrées. Cozy up at the antique Art Deco bar one evening and enjoy the Tonic Punch (it’s Sitti’s mixologist, Drew’s, favorite!) 137 S. Wilmington St.
Flying Saucer Draught Emporium - For some, giving up a gin drink or glass of red wine at dinner is no biggie, BUT a good belgian brew or craft IPA? That’s tough. Flying Saucer, a local watering-hole for beer-loving Raleighites with 81 draft + can/bottle selections, also sells non-alcoholic beer options from breweries like Lagunitas, Brooklyn Brewery, Athletic Brewing Co., and more. Kickback with an app and an NA brew to keep your weekly friend-hang alive as you keep it dry. (PLEASE NOTE: some “non-alcoholic” beers still contain less than 0.5% while others contain 0.0%.) 328 W. Morgan St.
Krave Tea House - Don’t give up the night out with your girls, just give up the hangover. Feel fancy with your besties while sipping kava, kratom teas, and other exotic beverages at Krave Tea House & Bar. In addition to providing the opportunity to experiment with rare flavors, Krave’s stunning aesthetic is a beautiful backdrop for an Instagram “cheers”. 709 N. Person St.
Unlikely Professionals - Looking to make mocktails at home for your next dinner party or solo self-care night in the kitchen? Head to Unlikely Professionals, mainly a boutique equipped with clothes and gear for guys (but has a little something for everyone!), for zero-alcohol mezcal, whiskey, and gin. This cool concept also has NA beers on tap and to-go. 212 E. Franklin St.
BONUS: Umbrella Dry Bar - COMING SOON! Raleigh’s first purely zero-proof bar will be opening in early 2023! A location has yet to be announced, but the bar is already creating intrigue via their website and Instagram. Their home page reads, “Come for the consciously good sips, stay for the clearer connections at Umbrella.” We look forward to exploring this spot soon!