Here are some of the best spots in Chicago where you can enjoy amazing spirit-free creations.
Aboyer
Acclaimed Chef Michael Lachowicz from Aboyer doesn’t care whether you’re drinking wine or a non-alcoholic beverage, all that matters to him is that it pairs with the dining experience seamlessly.
Unique flavor profiles, fresh ingredients, and beautiful presentations are at the core of all the spirit-free creations at Aboyer (they can be ordered to pair with the tasting menu at George Trois too!).
Some of the greatest hits off his n/a list, perfect for Dry January enthusiasts, include:
- Tangerine Dream ($13) – Seedlip Grove 42, Tangerine Cordial, Lemon Juice, Soda Water
- Garden Gate ($12) – Seedlip Garden 108, Blueberry Lavender Syrup, Lemon Juice
Hinoki Sushiko
Hinoki Sushiko, the twice-Michelin-recognized Omakase outpost in Pilsen, might have an incredible list of Japanese Whisky, Sake, and cocktails, but their selection of spirit free cocktails are just as impressive and are uniquely created every season by an expert bar team led by Zak Sherman.
Balanced and playful creations include:
- Relaxi Taxi – Oolong Tea Reduction, Clove, Lemon, Mad Tasty Yuzu citrus, CBD Soda, Spicy ginger CBD gummy garnish
- Forbidden Sour – Forbidden Forest Tea Reduction, Orange, Cardamom , Fresh lemon juice, Aqua Fava, Burnt orange
- Matcha Mule – Matcha Tea Reduction, Fresh Lime Juice, Ginger Beer
LYRA
Known for an entire menu and vibe that takes guests on a Mykonian escape, LYRA in Fulton Market takes their n/a beverages just as seriously as the do all the rest of their impressive offerings.
One of the most popular for those looking to steer the spirit free route is Halara ($10) – Amass Zero Proof, Pomegranate, Lemon, Mint, and Tonic
Prime & Provisions
Just because you aren’t imbibing at one of the city’s most revered steakhouses, doesn’t mean the perfect beverage shouldn’t still be expected, especially when enjoying one of their incredible dry aged cuts.
Spiced Grapefruit ($8) – This is a longtime n/a favorite on the Prime & Provisions menu, made with Seedlip Spice 94, Grapefruit, Lime, and club soda.
Bottleneck Management – Old Town Pour House, Sweetwater, South Branch
With three unique concepts (Old Town Pour House, Sweetwater, South Branch) ALL known for a dynamic beer selection, it’s no wonder that guests can always count on these Bottleneck locales for equally delicious non-alcoholic beer options throughout the year.
For Dry January, their excited to introduce two new Athletic Brewing company brews, and a new mocktail for good measure!
- Athletic Brewing Upside Dawn (Golden Ale) ($6)
- Athletic Brewing Run Wild (IPA) ($6)
- Cucumber Cure ($10) – Seedlip Garden 108, Lime, Cucumber, Mint, Ginger Beer
- **For extra Dry January fun, the group also put together a Spotify playlist dedicated to this special time of the year:
https://open.spotify.com/playlist/6nW50l7UdPre899M2eWKr7?si=9c27f196560447cc