6 Places to Drink When You’re Not Drinking
Words: Shamim de Brún
Images: Via Instagram / Press
Dublin, the city that once defined the art of drinking from a literal river of whiskey, has now embraced the trend that’s making waves – sobriety.
Apparently one in two people are doing Dry January in Ireland, and one in five is looking to lower their alcohol consumption; so this trend is on track with where we are as a society, I guess. Whether you’re a recovering party animal, on the dry for January or just a curious soul looking to spice up your nights without the traditional buzz, Dublin’s gone sober-curious enough to keep you entertained.
We’ve scoured the cobbled streets to bring you the lowdown on the best places to grab a drink when you’re not drinking.
No 27 Bar at The Shelbourne
If you’re tired of the same old virgin mojitos, No 27 Bar at The Shelbourne is your oasis. With ten enticing mocktail options, you’ll be spoiled for choice. Our personal favourite? The Apple Green Zing. And if you’re in the mood for a beer sans the booze, try the Lucky Saint – it’s the holy grail of alcohol-free brews.
Board: Going Wild Without the Spirits
If you’re looking to go full feral without a drop of alcohol, look no further than Board. The entire menu is a booze-free haven where you can order whatever your sober heart desires. Finally, a place where your wildest drink fantasies can come true without the lingering headache.
The Tea Garden: Matcha Madness
Sure, it’s not your typical bar vibe, but who says sobriety can’t be sophisticated? The Tea Rooms, open late into the night, will give you a matcha buzz that rivals any cocktail. Get ready for a green whirlwind that’ll leave you wondering why you ever needed alcohol in the first place.
The Square Ball: As Many Non Alcs as Board Games
The Square Ball claims to have an extensive non-alcoholic menu, but the details remain a well-guarded secret. By which I mean I forgot to take a picture of it, and it’s not on their website. Fear not, fellow teetotaler, for you can still revel in the goodness of a Guinness Zero. Yes, they’ve got that magic on tap, and we can confirm it’s as velvety and satisfying as its spirited sibling because I had one here literally yesterday.
P.Macs: A Not-So-Sober Secret Hideout
With four tempting non-alcoholic options, P.Macs is the undercover agent of the sober scene. Order the Rothhouse, and you’ll find yourself transported to a world where booze is just a distant memory. This is the place to be when you want a taste of rebellion without the liquid courage.
Galway Bar Bars: The Mikkeler Magic
Venture beyond Dublin’s borders to Galway Bay bars, where they’re rocking five non-alcoholic options. Our top pick? The Mikkeler Drinkin in the Sun. It’s a mouthful to say, but the flavours will make you forget you ever craved the hard stuff.
So, whether you’re on the wagon or just dipping your toes into the sober curious pool, Dublin’s non-alcoholic scene has evolved beyond sugary sodas and sad lime wedges. Embrace the new era of nightlife – where the only thing you’re drowning is FOMO.
Will someone please tell the campaigners who brought in MUP that we’re healing enough to get rid of it?
Elsewhere on Char: The Pursuit of Complex Flavour in Non-Alcoholic Drinks
