Best Booze-Free Drinks for Dry January in Chicago
via Hampton Social
Whether alcohol has never really been your thing, or you decided to embark on the Dry January trend to start off your New Year, there’s no reason to miss out on all the fun of the Chicago restaurant scene just because you’re not drinking! As our society becomes increasingly sober curious, we’ve come a long way from uber-sweet mocktails. Follow along as we run through our favorite N/A options including buzzworthy mocktails and boozless spirits.
Hampton Social {Multiple Locations}
Hampton Social is undoubtedly known for a good time. From the endless photo opportunities to the delicious food and amazing drinks (have you had their frosé?!), it’s definitely a must-visit. So when we saw they came out with their own mocktails, we knew we had to get our hands on them. N/A options include Sparkling Rosé, Gingerly Thymed, The Lighthouse, and Pom and Pepper.
Nisos Prime {802 West Randolph Street; 312. 800.8582}
Change it up on your next date night at West Loop’s hottest Mediterranean steakhouse, Nisos Prime. With moody lighting and food to die for, the last thing on your mind will be a drink. But if you are craving a little refresher, try one of their zero-proof cocktails like the Pom Pom or Garden Flow made with Seedlip Garden and Hibiscus Ginger Beer.
Violet Hour via Kelly Sandos
Violet Hour {1520 North Damen Avenue, Chicago; 773.252.1500}
Known for its cocktails, this James Beard Award-winning bar can mix it up with the best of them. While their boozy drinks are delectable, you can bet their mocktails are just as good. The drink on the top of our must-try list? Local Darling, with hints of coffee beans, bitters, a touch of citrus. You’ll never want to go back to alcoholic beverages again.
Galit {2429 North Lincoln Avenue, Chicago; 773.360.8755}
Located in Chicago’s beautiful Lincoln Park, Galit is a Middle Eastern restaurant worthy of all the buzz. Known for its mouthwatering eats and lengthy drink menu, it came as no surprise to us that they offer alcohol-free beverages too. If you’re planning a splurge, but still want to stay sober, look no further! Enjoy Gazoz (seasonal Israeli sodas) to accompany your meal.
The Omakase Room at Sushi-San {63 West Grand Avenue, Chicago; 312.828.0575}
Nothing pairs better with sushi than a Japanese wine or saki. But if you don’t feel like drinking at your next culinary experience, head to the second floor omakase experience at Sushi-San in River North. Known for its 18-course meal, this intimate dining experience from Master Sushi Chefs Kaze Chan and Shigeru Kitano can be paired with zero-proof drinks like the Broken Promise or the Banana Brain to curb the craving.
Esmè {2200 North Clark Street, Chicago}
Regardless of your “why” for being sober, there’s never a bad time to visit Chicago’s Michelin-starred restaurant Esmè. Food and art meet at this Lincoln Park location and so do alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages. Get your choice of multiple N/A drinks as you search their stunning menu for a bite.
via Big Shoulders
Big Shoulders Coffee {858 North State Street, Chicago; 312. 631.3970}
Recently awarded “America’s Best Independent Coffee Shop” by USA Today’s Readers Choice Awards, Big Shoulders is stepping up its Dry January game this month. All month long, their Gold Coast location will be offering spirit-free cocktail events every Friday and Saturday through closing night on January 27 for the non-drinkers in the city. Spirit-free offerings include Daisy, Madeline, and Gwendolyn, The Limestone Tower, and The Palmer.
Tacombi {126 North Peoria Street, Chicago; 312.600.7039}
Located in the ever-so-popular Fulton Market, Chicago’s newest take on taqueria is coming in hot. Visit Tacombi for your gateway to authentic Mexican eats including classics like homemade tacos and quesadillas. If you’re hoping to skip the margaritas this go-around, choose from a selection of spirit-free options like theirAguas Frescas that are made fresh daily in a variety of flavors.
By Madison Freeman | Online Correspondent