Skipping out on drinking this month? You’re not alone.
Over the last decade, Dry January has become a popular way to start the new year. After the excesses of the holiday season, people voluntarily stop drinking alcohol to kick off the new year on a clearer, healthier note.
According to CGA, a company that does research in the food and drink market, over a third of U.S. adults (35%) participated in Dry January last year. There are tons of benefits to giving up alcohol, even if it’s only for a month.
71% of people who took part in Dry January said they slept better and 67% had more energy, according to a 2019 University of Sussex study. 58% lost weight and 54% reported better skin.
No matter what your reason, taking time off from drinking doesn’t always mean you can’t still go out and enjoy yourself. Here are the best places around Columbus where you can enjoy a zero-proof cocktail.
Watershed Kitchen + Bar
Watershed Kitchen + Bar has quite a few non-alcoholic cocktails on the menu, and to be honest, they all sound incredible. You can check out the full cocktail menu here, which includes non-alcoholic versions of The Legend of Baba-Budan, the Eightfold Path, and Horchata Masala.
Address: 1145 Chesapeake Ave, Suite D, Columbus, OH 43212 (Look for the fenced patio)
Website: Watershed Distillery
Huli Huli Tiki Lounge
Although Huli Huli Tiki Lounge doesn’t have any specific mocktails on their menu, you can certainly order them at the bar. The best route would be to ask the bartender for their favorite non-alcoholic recommendations. Most of the drinks at Huli Huli are very fruity and fun, with or without alcohol!
Address: 26 W Olentangy st., Powell, OH 43065
Website: Huli Huli Tiki Lounge
Vaso
Not only does Vaso have amazing rooftop vibes, they’ve also got two great non-alcoholic cocktails ot choose from. Both the Vaso G&T and the Spiced Orange will leave you happy that you stopped in. The G&T is made with AC-tailored tonic, garden seedlip, bergamot, lavender, juniper berries, tonka bean, and sparkling Mediterranean tonic water. The Spiced Orange is made with citrus seedlip, fresh lime, orange, and ginger beer.
Address: 6540 Riverside Drive, Dublin, OH 43017
Website: VASO Dublin
Comune
Comune has a marvelous variety of both low and no proof drinks. It’s the perfect place to meet up with friends for dinner and drinks, and I feel confident that you’ll find something you like. On the menu, you’ll find non-alcoholic wines, carefully crafted mocktails, kombucha, and more.
Address: 677 Parsons Ave, Columbus, OH 43206
Website: Comune
Strongwater Food and Spirits
My favorite non-alcoholic drink can be found at Strongwater. It’s called a Pineapple Smash and it’s divine. They’ve got a few other non-alcoholic options as well, plus they run some specials during January using zero-proof alcohol alternatives!
Address: 401 W Town Street, Columbus, OH 43215
Website: Strongwater Food and Spirits
Lumin Sky Bar
The Spritz Free at Lumin Sky Bar will have you forgetting your January blues in no time. Made with Giffard Aperitif, Q Grapefruit Soda, Club Soda, and Citrus, it’s refreshing, light, and the perfect drink to sip while you take in the incredible views of downtown Columbus.
Address: 517 Park Street,
Columbus, OH 43215
Website: Lumin Sky Bar
High Bank Distillery
I’ve basically fallen in love with every drink I’ve ever had at High Bank Distillery, and that includes their selection of mocktails. You’ll have a few to choose from, including their seasonal, non-alcoholic mules. You’ll just need to check with your server to find out what the current seasonal flavor is.
Address: 1051 Goodale Blvd, Columbus, OH 43212
Website: High Bank Distillery
