Four Things Needed in a Non-Alcoholic Bar
Hosting an event can feel daunting. Making sure everyone feels comfortable and at ease takes planning. In an attempt to be more inclusive, more and more party planners are embracing alcohol-free bar options. And in Utah, that makes sense, as many of our neighbors are alcohol-free.
Here are five ways to build out a non-alcoholic drink station that is interesting and enjoyable for the non-drinkers at your event.
Craft a (non-alcoholic) Cocktail
Offer a variety of mocktail mixers for guests. Allow them to “finish” the drink by adding their favorite base. Sodas, tonics, and juices are all elevated when mixed with a great concoction of herbs, sweetners, and flavors.
Having a bartender on hand to give instructions or to put on a show while serving can add a lot to an event.
Build Out the Bar
Put as much thought or more, into stocking your non-alcohol bar. Provide non-alcoholic options of tequila, gin, beer and wine. Sparkling cider is a great option for festive occasions.
Mixes should include soda water, ginger beer, grapefruit soda, tonic and a variety of juices. Be generous in your offerings. If you want to be edgy, provide CBD mixers as well.
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Lay out all the bar tools including an ice bucket with ice, a drink shaker, mixing spoons, strainer, jigger, a shaker, measuring cups and a zester. Providing these along side some suggested recipes can make grabbing a drink the highlight of the night.
Garnishes
Garnishes can be the literal cherry on top. Oranges, lemons, and limes are a staples. Offering edible flowers along side herbs can add layers of flavor to a drink. Blueberries, pomegranates, strawberries or whatever else is seasonal and local can add a splash of color. Colorful straws and drink umbrellas finish things off.
Offering a salt tincture makes a non-alcoholic drink richer. It cuts down on bitterness. A salt tincture can be made with one part salt to four parts water, ensure that all crystals dissolve.
Stick with the Classics
Classics are classic for a reason. Take the time to create classic recipe ideas for your guests. Make the recipe beautiful and simple to follow. Ensure all ingredients for that drink are offered in your bar. And then give your guests latitude to deviate from your suggestions. Experimentation is half the fun. Keep in mind the three components to a well-balanced drink is a base, an acid, and a sweet. When maintaining a balance of these three elements leads to a drink anyone would enjoy.
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