This January, Denver’s dining scene offers plenty of zero-proof options, proving that mindful drinking doesn’t mean sacrificing creativity or flavour.
Poka Lola Social Club embraces winter with mocktails crafted from house-made creams and spice blends. The Black Magic ($11) combines blueberry and kiwi purees, champagne vinegar, and clove. The House Cider ($12) features apple, chai, house maple whipped cream, and a spice blend. Guests may also enjoy a draft house-made root beer debuting this season.
At Restaurant Olivia, the talented bar team showcases their Zero-Proof Milk Punch, blending velvety texture with a vibrant flavour profile. Thoughtfully prepared with classic mixology techniques, this non-alcoholic cocktail highlights the same level of care as their spirited offerings.
Toro by Chef Richard Sandoval in Cherry Creek offers the Gorgeous Mocktail ($10), a mix of blueberry puree, lime juice, soda, and Sprite, garnished with lime peel and blueberries. Guests can also request any of Toro’s signature cocktails in a non-alcoholic version, including the popular Mercado Margarita.
At Big Apple Bodega, an alcohol-free haven, visitors can enjoy New York-inspired mocktails crafted with Grüvi non-alcoholic wines. The Broadway Bellini ($8) combines apple cider, Dry Secco, and a cinnamon stick. The Brooklyn Breeze ($8) offers a mix of Bubby Rose, cucumber, and apple juice, while the Empire State Spritz ($8) blends Juicy IPA, orange juice, club soda, and an orange slice.
Kachina Cantina presents three vibrant agua frescas this January. The Guava Agua Fresca ($7) delivers tropical sweetness, the Rosemary Citrus Agua Fresca ($7) offers a zesty herb-infused option, and the Cherry Walnut Agua Fresca ($7) balances fruit and nutty flavours.
Ambler offers two creative spirit-free spritzes this Dry January. The Ambler Brambler combines lemongrass cashew orgeat, lemon, raspberry, blackberry, and soda for a refreshing balance of citrus and berry. The Strawberry Splash blends strawberry, basil, ginger, lime, and Fever Tree blood orange ginger beer for a lively and zesty drink.
At Lazy Dog Restaurant & Bar, guests can sip on creative non-alcoholic drinks year-round. Flavoured sodas include Coca-Cola with coconut-lime cream, Dr Pepper with huckleberry purée, and Root Beer with vanilla bean cream. Lemonades feature flavours like huckleberry and strawberry with a sugar rim, while sparkling refreshers, such as the tropical blend with orange juice, pomegranate, and coconut-pineapple cream, add a fizzy twist.