A guide to the best mocktails in Atlanta (that aren’t just juice in a fancy glass)
Mocktails are on the rise, and Atlanta hot spots are taking notice. Which unique beverage will you order on your next sober night out?
Anabel Prince
December 1, 2023
Ordering a mocktail during a night out in Atlanta is a risk. Maybe not free-climbing risky, but you’re still taking a gamble. For those expecting a specialty crafted drink, receiving a mix of fruit juices and a lime wedge grazing the rim just won’t cut it, especially when some mocktails can be only a few dollars less than the “real” thing.
With sober-curious movements gaining traction — 4 in 10 consumers closely or occasionally follow a no-drink lifestyle — mocktails are on the rise, and patrons’ choices have broadened. Bartenders agree: “There’s definitely been an uptick [in] ordering mocktails, I think because the stigma of not drinking in social situations is wearing down,” says Griffin Hudgins, bar manager of popular Upper Westside spot The Woodall.
Whether you’re looking for a bourbon-less old fashioned, virgin mojito (sometimes referred to as a no-jito) or even just a non-alcoholic beer, ATL’s got more than a few options for sober-curious and alcohol-free patrons.
The Woodall
This upscale establishment has become the Westside neighborhood’s go-to hangout spot since opening in early 2021. It features a dog-friendly, full-service outdoor bar and warm interiors, and its welcoming environment extends to the offerings of food and drink. While The Woodall is known for its classic cocktails and delicious bar-exclusive menu (try the Durham’s fried chicken), its menu of mocktail options is sure to please — particularly with a reasonable price tag between $7 to $9.
“A few years ago, mocktails consisted of whatever juice bars had,” says Hudgins. “Now, you see a lot of restaurants bringing in zero-proof spirits to mimic the flavors of liquor.” The drink expert explains how The Woodall’s new classics also incorporate the same thoughtfulness that one would expect with a traditional alcoholic beverage.
Take the Free Fashioned, a spirit-free take on the old fashioned, using lapsang souchong (a smoky black tea), caraway seeds, black peppercorn, and charred hickory maple syrup.
“We wanted to implement the smokiness and bite of a traditional old fashioned,” Hudgins says of the unique no-spirit drink. “We char hickory chips and then infuse those with maple syrup for 24 hours. Once that’s finished, we toast black peppercorns and caraway, give them a quick pulse in the blender, and then heat them to make a tea.”
Other Woodall standouts include the Mocking Rita, a take on a spicy margarita featuring a house-made sour mix, green tea, Fresno orange agave syrup, soda water, and fresh lime. If something sweeter is on your mind, go with the Bet Your Berries, crafted with fresh berries, lemon, agave nectar, and soda, for a perfect elevated thirst-quencher.
Flight Club
Nestled in West Midtown across from the iconic Northside Tavern, Flight Club offers its signature mocktail, The Midway Splash, anchored by the non-alcoholic, no-calorie, no-sugar spirit Seedlip Grove 42. The product is billed as a “sophisticated, bright, citrus blend” that fuses orange, lemon, lemongrass and ginger flavors. The spirit is mixed alongside pineapple and a lemon tonic for a balanced sweetness. Flight Club’s other offerings include The Lyre’s Spritz, a rotating virgin spritz.
Here, you’ll also find solid non-alcoholic beers from Athletic Brewing — award-winning craft brewers offering an impressive lineup of styles that can even please your resident beer snob. At Fight Club, try either the non-alcoholic IPA or golden ale.
Gypsy Kitchen
Gypsy Kitchen, a well-known and highly-rated Buckhead gem known for craft cocktails and unique tapas, offers excellent views and a romantic vibe. It’s perfect for a Dry January date night — or day out. In fact, Gypsy Kitchen only lists mocktails on its lunch menu. (Inside tip: they’re available for just $8 a pop all day.)
The eye-catching Razmatazz mocktail will immediately win over your tastebuds. It’s made simply with raspberries, lemon juice, and orgeat, an almond and rose water syrup, and served in a tall glass with light ice and lemon garnish. Rounding out the trio of options is the Blackberry Elixir, crafted with blackberries, lemon, basil, and honey, and the refreshing, light-tasting Pepino Fresco, using cucumber, mint, lime, and tonic water.
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How to maximize your experience at 3 Atlanta entertainment districts
Some consider these developments hallmarks of the city. Here’s what to know if you plan to visit.
Ask any ATL native how much the city has changed over the years, and you’re probably in for a half-hour rant. Fellow residents have likely noticed the emergence of large-scale developments offering trendy restaurants, retail storefronts, office space, and concert venues in up-and-coming areas of Atlanta. Now, some believe these mixed-use spaces are hallmarks of the city.
With all the new offerings, it can be intimidating to determine how to navigate each of them. This guide takes you through everything you need to know — from the restaurants worth visiting to the parking situations you’ll find — to maximize your experience at three entertainment districts.
Ponce City Market (PCM)
Let’s start where every tourist begins: Ponce City Market. Sure, major construction can block views of the city, but the iconic neon signs and unique spots keep drawing visitors back.
Parking: PCM offers reasonably priced spots on the deck at $2.60 per hour. Street parking is an option if you’re not opposed to searching and then walking down Ponce de Leon Avenue.
Food & Beverage: Depending on your vibe, the PCM food hall can be a cuisine wonderland or completely overwhelming. For a standout option, try one Minero’s burritos, loaded with white rice, beans, Oaxaca cheese, crema, poblano peppers, cabbage, cilantro, salsa verde, and avocado. Did we mention they toast the burrito in cheese, creating an irresistible crispy exterior?
For those looking for a luxury lounge experience, the exclusive 12 Cocktail Bar fits the bill. Its craft cocktails, such as the Oaxacan smash featuring Siete Misterios Mezcal, lemon, lime, blueberry, passion fruit, and orange, are sure to impress. Get there before the 5 p.m. opening each day, or make a reservation before your next date night!
Retail: PCM is home to many big-name retailers like Allbirds, Casper Mattress, and Atlanta’s only Glossier storefront (one of only 11 worldwide). Whether you’re in the mood to splurge or window shop, it’s undoubtedly a fun opportunity to experience online-first brands in their brick-and-mortar store.
The Krog District
Let’s head south to The Krog District, a fascinating piece of Atlanta’s history, named after notable resident Frederick Krog. It’s been going strong since its redevelopment in 2004, with new additions and old favorites among the ever-expanding mix.
Parking: The Krog District offers surface lot and garage parking options starting at $4 per hour on weekdays and $6 per hour on weekends (beginning Fridays at 5:30 p.m.).
Food & Beverage: You’ll find two restaurants here that have earned the Bib Gourmand honor in the Michelin Guide. First, there’s the intimate Ticonderoga Club — where you’ll want to opt for a reservation when (and if) you can. The Club rotates seasonal standout entrees, including the catch of the day, served alongside Carnaroli risotto, red grapefruit, parmesan, and fresh chives.
For a more casual spot, Fred’s Meat and Bread offers unbeatable food at a reasonable price. Sample tried-and-true sandwiches like the classic parm and tuna melt, or opt for eclectic creations like the “almost vegetarian” cauliflower and eggplant banh mi. It features pickled carrot, daikon, spicy mayo, jalapeno, cilantro, and a Thai vinaigrette.
For a nightcap, walk to Brewdog or Pour Taproom, breweries with ample space and plenty of hops.
Retail: The Krog District boasts many unique storefronts as well, including Outdoor Voices, Patagonia, Xocolatl Small Batch Chocolate, and at least a dozen other highly recommended retail spots to hit up.
The Battery Atlanta
Braves fans are likely familiar with The Battery, which includes Truist Park, home of the Atlanta Braves. In addition to food and drinks, concertgoers also flock to The Coca-Cola Roxy, which features notable comedians, musicians, and other performers.
Parking: Great news! Self-parking is complimentary at the battery for the first three hours on the red, green, yellow, and purple decks. Not such good news: Event-day parking has a fairly complicated set of new rules. Uber or Lyft may be your best bet.
Food & Beverage: Crowds visit for sports and beer, and those are truly the standout draws. However, Antico Pizza Napoletana and elevated Tex-Mex eatery Superica are excellent choices if you’re seeking a full meal. Regarding drinks, there’s no lack of beer (think $12 tall boys) in every corner. Try Terrapin Taproom for an ice-cold Luau Krunkles POG, a hazy IPA with tropical aromas.
Retail: There’s no lack of Braves swag available, with two different storefronts selling team merch.
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7 essential Greater Phoenix farmers markets to visit
Where to shop for local produce and more this season.
Grocery shopping is a hassle. A solution to big-box grocery stores is your local farmers market, where you can avoid long lines, high prices, and bright overhead lighting and find fresh, locally made goods. These open-air weekend markets bring out local vendors from the Phoenix Metro region who dish fresh produce, in-season items, baked bread, and other local snacky goods. There’s music, community, art, artisan-made crafts, food trucks, and vendors. What are you waiting for? Jot down that grocery list, grab your reusable totes, and plot your next market run to these local Phoenix farmers markets.
Uptown Farmers Market
Uptown Phoenix
Every Saturday from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m., every Wednesday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Mexican fusion barbecue, seasonal honey, and organic coffee are just a few things you can check off your grocery list at the Uptown Farmers Market. The year-round market draws out crowds for its community-focused atmosphere, kid-friendly activities (pet kids, too), and unmatched roster of Arizona growers and producers. And you don’t have to wait until the weekend to restock your pantry with sourdough bagels and prickly pear teas since the Uptown Farmers Market is recurring every morning on Saturday and Wednesday.
Downtown PHX Farmers Market
Downtown Phoenix
Every Saturday from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.
The Downtown PHX Farmers Market is widely considered the best farmers market in town. It’s certainly one of the biggest around, boasting close to 100 Arizona-based vendors for every Saturday market. In addition to the fresh produce, and lots of it, the Downtown PHX Farmers Market platforms local Phoenix artisans and makers. So, you can shop for fresh-pressed juice and jewelry on your next market run.
Gilbert Farmers Market
Downtown Gilbert
Every Saturday from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m.
This popular East Valley market is known for its lineup of food trucks and for being very dog-friendly. The local artisan bread booths, iced coffee pop-ups, and organic produce are also big draws, of course. Come out early to beat the crowds and find your place in line for some breakfast, like strawberry and whipped cream-covered waffles, while you watch the adorable pups go by on their morning walks.
Old Town Scottsdale Farmers Market
Old Town Scottsdale
Every Saturday, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Built on local connection, the Old Town Scottsdale Farmers Market boasts a local lineup of farmers, vendors, and growers every weekend. The food- and farming-only market is stocked with stuff you won’t find on any ordinary grocery store shelf, like spicy vegan toffee, hand-rolled pasta, bottled cashew oat milk, and free-range organic blue eggs. A word to the wise: Don’t forget to pick up a pack of tamales for lunch while you’re there.
Tempe Farmers Market (TFM)
Downtown Tempe
Open daily
Tempe Farmers Market begs the question: Why wait until the weekend? Here, you can shop for your favorite local goods every day. The Tempe Farmers Market, also known as TFM, is a permanent brick-and-mortar space that specializes in local specialty products, fair trade teas and espresso drinks, made-to-order paninis and smoothies, and takeaway vegan deli-style eats. We can’t forget to mention the selection of basic produce items like locally grown fruit and vegetables. At night, the space transforms into a sort of speakeasy-style lounge where you can catch live performances and music while you sip on TFM’s tasty chilled drinks.
Downtown Mesa Farmers Market
Downtown Mesa
Every Saturday from 8 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
While the Downtown Mesa Farmers Market is a newcomer to the local farmers market scene, it has amassed a large following for its curated selection of unique vendors and its offering of handcrafted goods. And, thanks to a series of local partnerships, the market is able to bring live music to its outdoor venue. The Downtown Mesa Farmers Market features a different local musician or band each week. So, you can expect to hear a range of tunes, from jazz to upbeat ukulele melodies, while browsing the soy candles and gourmet butter.
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