Zero-Proof and 100% Delicious: Mocktails and Non-Alcoholic Drinks in Delco

Are you getting in on the Dry January action this year? This annual tradition of a month abstaining from alcoholic beverages is observed by many as a detox after the holiday festivities. Even if you’re not participating in Dry January, perhaps you’re looking for some low/no-ABV options to lighten things up, or a way to responsibly enjoy a weeknight out. 

 

Delco’s bars and restaurants are ready to help out in your quest for zero-proof cocktails and mocktails in Dry January and beyond; over the past few years, we’ve seen more and more imaginative, considered and curated non-alcohol options on local menus. There are so many, in fact, that we have two other blog posts covering great spots for non-alcoholic drinks (see here and here). Enjoy exploring these fantastic local mocktails, and Happy New Year!

 

 

At Testa Rossa, the colorful new Italian-American eatery in the former Ruby’s Diner in Glen Mills, the beverage menu features fun and inventive zero-proof (which includes non-alcoholic spirits) and mocktails (made with infusions, teas, etc.). A highlight from each category includes the Mint Condition, with n/a whiskey, mint, ginger beer and lemon and the herbaceous Vaporetto, with bergamot, basil and club soda.

919 Baltimore Pike, Glen Mills; (610) 335-9900.

 

 

Not too far from Testa Rossa, find Harvest Seasonal Grill & Wine Bar, focused on fresh, seasonal dining. In addition to locally sourced ingredients and an impressive wine selection, Harvest takes its non-alcoholic options seriously. The selection of healthy, unique mocktails changes throughout the year; this winter, you can look forward to the Chamomile Arnold Palmer, Apple Cider Mule, Blood Orange Refresher and Cherry & Fig Punch. These are made with juices, purees, teas and fruits, for alluring, vibrant flavors. On the beer side of things, find Barritt’s Ginger Beer and Stella Artois N/A. 

549 Wilmington Pike, Glen Mills; (610) 358-1005.

 

As a BYOB, Sophusion doesn’t have a full bar; what it does have is the option to bring your own bottle, or choose from an incredible selection of mocktails to accompany its elevated comfort-food-driven menu. Pair a spicy or savory dish, like the crispy soy-glazed wings, or the General Tso’s cauliflower with The Cool Cumber, a garden-fresh blend of cucumber, mint and lime. Try the fruity, fizzy Strawberry Dragon (strawberry, dragonfruit, lime and mint) with more mellow dishes, like the Tuscan grilled salmon or the garlicky shrimp tostones. 

24 N. Lansdowne Ave., Lansdowne; (484) 466-3583.

 

 

There are three tasty and varied mocktail options at Departure, one of Media’s top destinations for creative cocktails. Choose from the tart, fruity, Moscow Cranberry Fizz, the beachy Sunset On Tequila and the nostalgic Ectocooler, a citrusy take on Hi-C’s Ecto Cooler juice pouch. Pair with a snacky small plate, like the Toro Chips, with marinated tuna, pickled jalapeño, avocado and spicy aioli, or the pulled pork bahn mi sliders.

2 S. Orange St., Media; (610) 502-3833.

 

Iron Chef Jose Graces’ suburban outpost of his flagship restaurant, Amada, is known for its impeccable Spanish tapas, beautifully curated wine list and next-level service. The handcrafted cocktails are also quite a treat, as are the zero-proof options. Each zero-proof cocktail starts with a non-alcoholic spirit from Lyre’s Non-Alcoholic, a high-end, zero-proof brand. For a fizzy, lighthearted sipper, try the Amalfi Spritz, with Lyre’s bitter Italian Spritz, Classico n/a sparkling wine and orange; for a glamorous party vibe, order up the Passion Star Martini with Lyre’s Dry London Spirit, vanilla, passionfruit, n/a sparkling wine and lime.

555 E. Lancaster Ave., St. Davids; (484) 429-2158.

 

The recently upgraded Carmine’s Eatery includes some sleek interior design, a new brick oven, and a refresh of the Italian menu. The drinks menu wasn’t excluded, and features a number of prestige wines, craft beers and inventive cocktails. There are two exciting mocktails on offer, both made with the artisan non-alcoholic spirits from Seedlip: the marg-esque Grove-A-Rita with Seedlip Grove 42, agave and lime juice, and Carmines Garden with Seedlip Garden 108, lime juice, simple syrup and basil. If you’re hankering for a brew, look for the Heineken 0.0 on the beer menu. 

3570 West Chester Pike, Newtown Square; (610) 356-9009.

 

Delightfully refined and perfectly cozy, The Refectory is perhaps not what you’d expect of a bar/restaurant on the edge of Villanova University’s campus. From the thoughtful menu items (think: beet ravioli, brisket and apple butter flatbread and whipped ricotta with focaccia) to the luxe design touches, it’s a sophisticated hang. The non-alcoholic menu offerings keep pace with the rest of the beverage menu; there are five fabulous choices. We love the Fall’s Poem, with zippy ginger, sweet pear, lemon juice and soda and the bright Pen/Acillin with rooibos tea, ginger, honey and lemon. 

862 E. Lancaster Ave., Villanova; (610) 519-5786.

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Want to know more about everything Delco? We’re more than just your source for good eats — we’re your source for where to stay, what to do and more in Delaware County, Pennsylvania. We’re Visit Delco, PA. They say we’re A LOT…and they’re right! Contact us at (610) 565-3679, by email or online.

– Emily Kovach

 

Featured photo: Pexels