Photograph by Victoria Moorwood
In the spirit of inclusivity, mocktails have become increasingly trendy on bar menus. What might have once been an isolating environment for a nondrinker can now be a comfortable space for all to mingle. Here are seven watering holes in Cincinnati shaking up the drinks menu with exciting alcohol-free options.
Aster Social Sippery
Aster Social Sippery’s nonalcoholic drinks go beyond preventing a hangover. Their adaptogens menu aims to fuel your body with a healthy libation, using ingredients like kombucha, lemongrass, fresh fruit, and herbs.
8 E. Fourth St., downtown, (513) 381-4483
HomeMakers Bar
Already known for their low-proof cocktails, HomeMakers Bar’s recently debuted winter menu includes the addition of delicious and completely spirit-free drinks. Similar to a chilled Mexican hot chocolate, The Johnny combines cocoa, mole bitters, and cherry, while the Some Like It Hot mixes almond milk tea, saffron, honey, and is served warm.
39 E. 13th St., Over-the-Rhine, (513) 394-7559
Japp’s Since 1879
Cincinnati mixologist Molly Wellmann always has a “nonnie” up her sleeve—a nonalcoholic cocktail, that is—for what she calls her “wagon riders.” In observation of dry January, Japp’s rolled out an entire menu of nonnies, and after the month ends, customers can continue to find a variety of spirit-free drinks at Japp’s, all crafted with housemade simple syrups, fresh produce, or floral waters.
1134 Main St., Over-the-Rhine, (513) 381-0674
16-Bit Bar + Arcade
Along with the bright lights of retro arcade games, you’ll also find 16-Bit’s thoughtfully crafted No Booze? No Problem! menu. The bar offers beverages with witty names like the grenadine-sweetened Lisa Simpson, the pomegranate-based Power Ranger, and the orange creamsicle-flavored Michelangelo—all spirit-free.
1331 Walnut St., Over-the-Rhine, (513) 381- 1616
Tokyo Kitty
Thanks to Tokyo Kitty’s housemade syrups, the bar serves a nonalcoholic version of most of their signature cocktails, still with the same great taste. As an added bonus, you’ll also save a few bucks on each drink!
575 Race St., downtown, (513) 744-0909
BrewDog Cincinnati
Get all the taste of a full-bodied beer without the buzz. BrewDog serves a seasonal Punk AF sour beer and a yearlong Stout AF, with notes of coffee, oats, and cocoa. The hoppy Nanny State is an almost alcohol-free option, with only .5 percent alcohol.
316 Reading Rd., Pendleton, (513) 457-5287
Karrikin Spirits Co.
Turns out you can even enjoy nonalcoholic beverages at a distillery. Known for its canned sparkling spirits, Karrikin offers a variety of tangy alcohol-free drinks, such as the ginger and lemongrass Karrikin N/A Mule, and the citrusy blood orange shrub. Don’t forget to take a look at their mouthwatering brunch, lunch, and dinner menus while you’re there, too.
3717 Jongen Dr., Fairfax, (513) 561-5000
Although the Queen City has enjoyed a long-lasting love affair with breweries, beer festivals, and distilleries, Cincinnati establishments are catching up to other major cities by making an effort to create an inclusive bar scene. We can all cheers to that!
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