The Art Of Mocktails

Where Pleasing Unusual Replaces the Unsual

Art comes in many forms. It can transform the dull into the delightful, the ordinary into the extraordinary. It’s the painter setting colors onto canvas, the sculptor molding shape from clay, or the mixologist crafting that perfect blend of flavors into an enticing drink. In this health-conscious and mindful living era, the latter craft has taken an exciting twist. We are exploring the art of making a drink without relying on alcohol to impress or satisfy. It’s the art of the mocktail - and it’s a craft worth acknowledging.

At twenty-something, sipping an alcoholic cocktail under the blazing sun seems like a great way to relish a summer day. But with age comes changes in taste and what was once appealing may no longer satisfy. Many begin to consciously limit their alcohol intake due to the associated health risks or just not wanting to wake up feeling like crap after a fun night out.

More and more people are opting for healthier choices. But when hanging out with friends, being the only one not sipping on an elegant cocktail can feel a bit out of place. Thankfully, the options for non-alcohol drinkers are growing rapidly, offering a multitude of beverages that are both pleasing to the palate and aesthetically perfect for those Instagram shots.

Charlotte has entered the cocktail game. Here are some top-notch spots that are mastering the art of the mocktail:

Pinky’s Westside Grill | 1600 W. Morehead Street

Pinky’s isn’t just about their tantalizing food menu.

They’re shaking things up with alcohol-free versions of your favorite cocktails. The Mai Tai and the Paloma from their summer menu are sure to transport you to an exotic beach, sans the hangover.

The Bevery | 2215 Thrift Road

Recognized as Queen City’s first craft seltzer, The Bevery is stepping up its game with mocktail options. Any of their cocktails can be made into a mocktail, making it an ideal spot for those who love to try a variety of flavors.

Sugar Lounge | 225 N Caldwell Street

Having opened in March, Sugar Lounge boasts a menu full of non-alcoholic beverages and a selection of Hookah options. It’s a go-to spot for anyone wanting to unwind and socialize without the added effects of alcohol.

Free Range Brewery | 2320 N. Davidson Street

Not just for the beer lovers, Free Range Brewery also offers a variety of non-alcoholic drinks that will leave you wanting more.

Link & Pin

A popular brunch spot with multiple locations, Link & Pin has three low-priced mocktails that are as pleasing to the eye as they are to the palate.

These establishments remind us that there’s much more to a drink than its alcohol content. They inspire us to appreciate the craft behind the glass, the unusual replacing the usual. It’s an invitation to slow down, savor each sip, and experience the art of mocktails. Embrace this trend and let it add a dash of fun and variety to your social outings. After all, isn’t life too short to limit our experiences to the “usual”? Let’s make it pleasingly unusual.