Where to Get Mocktails in Charlotte
For a hangover-free night out, check out the nonalcoholic cocktails at these Queen City hotspots.
by Molly Ruggere
With the “sober curious” movement continuing to grow year-over-year, the demand for nonalcoholic drinks is at an all-time high all over the world, including right here in Charlotte. From high-end restaurants to cozy cafes and trendy tortillerias, here are 14 local spots that are making Charlotte’s drinking scene more inclusive with thoughtful, inventive nonalcoholic cocktails.
The Artisan’s Palate
Neighborhood: NoDa
The Spirit Free menu at Artisan’s Palate features nonalcoholic versions of classic cocktails, so even if you’re not drinking, you can still order your favorite adult beverage. If you’re craving a margarita with a kick, order the Tequila “Mock”ing Bird, made with Ritual tequila, grapefruit and ginger.
Aura Rooftop
Neighborhood: Uptown
JW Marriott Charlotte’s rooftop lounge offers panoramic city views along with two “Free Spirited” cocktails. The refreshing Charlotte Crown features sparkling water infused with mint, blueberry and lime, and the Solar Plexus combines grapefruit, sage, pineapple and sparkling water for a citrusy, not-too-sweet taste.
BAR ONE Lounge
Neighborhood: SouthPark
While BAR ONE’s dim lighting, high-back leather booths and classic cocktail list may create a speakeasy vibe, its inclusive mixology approach is anything but old fashioned. The 32-page drink menu features three pages of mocktails, along with the ingredients, history and flavor. From spicy and loud to natural and fresh, there’s a nonalcoholic option for every preference.
Billy Sunday
Neighborhood: Optimist Park
Billy Sunday, an award-winning cocktail bar at Optimist Hall, features five inventive, nonalcoholic cocktails made with unexpected ingredient combinations. If you’re feeling adventurous, try the Spirit Free Later ‘Mater made with lime, Cholula hot sauce, Worcestershire, smoked salt and the nonalcoholic spirit of your choice.
The Bottle Tree
Neighborhood: Belmont
From its world-class wine collection to the local greens in the popular Pesto and Carrots, there’s thought behind everything on The Bottle Tree menu, including its spirit-free cocktails. Enjoy a Cucumber Cooler on the patio for a refreshing beverage that tastes like summer.
Catalina Kitchen + Bar
Neighborhood: Elizabeth
Catalina Kitchen + Bar is the first Charlotte restaurant from legendary football coach Mike Ditka’s restaurant group. This laid-back spot for elevated coastal cuisine features two zero-proof cocktails: Queen City Spritz, made with cold-pressed grapefruit, lime and rose-infused syrup, and Lavender Lemonade with fresh, lavender-infused lemonade with cold-pressed lemon.
Chapter 6
Neighborhood: South End
Chapter 6 offers four Mediterranean-inspired spirit-free cocktails, such as the Laconian Breeze, which features a refreshing blend of Seedlip Grove 42, orange blossom, orange oleo and soda. If you can’t pick just one option, order The Non-Tipsy Treatment, for a sampling of nonalcoholic libations.
The Crunkleton
Neighborhood: Elizabeth
All of the nonalcoholic cocktails on The Crunkleton’s menu are crafted with the same fresh juices, hand-carved ice and syrups as the alcoholic counterparts, so you’re guaranteed a delicious drink regardless of its ABV. For a beachy beverage without the hangover, try a Painlesskiller, or N/A Agave Tiki Tai.
Ever Andalo
Neighborhood: NoDa
Everything at this cozy Italian spot is authentic and homemade – from the fresh pasta to the homespun chocolate sorbet – and the drinks are no exception. Transport your taste buds to the Amalfi Coast with the Apis Regina, one of three spirit-free menu options, featuring house-made juniper-honey syrup, grapefruit, lemon and soda water.
MAS
Neighborhood: Wesley Heights
Maíz Agua Sal (MAS) features two frozen nonalcoholic cocktails to complement its fresh Mexican cuisine – the fruity Pineapple Passion and the spicy Lime Sweet Heat – as well as a variety of Agua Frescas, available by the glass or pitcher.
Restaurant Constance
Neighborhood: Wesley Heights
Serving thoughtful, complex nonalcoholic beverages has been a priority for Restaurant Constance since it opened. Just like the cuisine, the nonalcoholic cocktails change with the seasons and are designed to complement the menu, so ask your server for their recommendations on what mocktails pair best with your meal.
Yunta
Neighborhood: South End
Recognized as one of the best mocktail spots in the country, Yunta, a Peruvian-Japanese restaurant, features several inventive nonalcoholic beverages on its menu, satisfying a variety of tastes. While you can’t go wrong with any option, one of the most popular is The Gardener made with Seedlip Garden, Peruvian black mint, lime and watermelon.
Merchant & Trade
Neighborhood: Uptown
Merchant & Trade, a sleek rooftop spot for sky-high views, date-night drinks and elevated bar bites, features a menu of sophisticated zero-proof cocktails. The most popular option, Madame Blueberry, combines blueberries, lemon, honey, aquafaba, sparkling water and Ritual Zero Proof rum for a refreshing, slightly sweet flavor.
Tommy’s Pub
Neighborhood: East Charlotte
Tommy’s Pub isn’t just a low-key spot for cheap beer, it also offers one of Charlotte’s most impressive no- or low-alcohol lists. The Dry January & Beyond menu features over 10 options, including nonalcoholic classic cocktails like the Cat Whiskers Old Fashioned or the Garden 108 Gin & Tonic.
