Portland’s innovative culinary scene has long been celebrated for pushing boundaries, and the city’s approach to non-alcoholic beverages is no exception. So if you’re a sober reveler, celebrating “Dry January”, or simply looking to explore the artistry of craft beverages without the alcohol, the city offers an impressive array of establishments serving sophisticated, thoughtfully crafted “mocktails” that rival their spirited counterparts.
Read on to get the low-down on how to have a spirited evening (minus the actual spirits) with non-alcoholic drinks in Portland.
The Pioneers of Portland’s Alcohol-Free Scene
Leading the charge in Portland’s zero-proof revolution is Suckerpunch, the city’s first dedicated non-alcoholic pop-up bar. This traveling tavern has revolutionized many locals’ thinking about drinking by proving that complex, delicious adult beverages don’t need alcohol to be sophisticated. Their rotating menu (and ever-moving location) features innovative concoctions that incorporate house-made botanical tinctures, fresh-pressed juices, and locally sourced ingredients. Hit their website to find out where they’ll be setting up shop next.
Radio Room has also earned a reputation for their inclusive beverage program that gives as much attention to their non-alcoholic offerings as their traditional cocktails. Their “Zero Proof” menu features creative alternatives like the Orange Dream, a refreshing creamsicle-flavored blend of citrus, pineapple, lime, and other fresh components that perfectly captures Portland’s farm-to-glass ethos.
Elevated Dining, Elevated Drinking
At Kann, celebrity chef Gregory Gourdet’s acclaimed live-fire Haitian restaurant, the non-alcoholic beverage program stands just as tall as the James Beard-nominated cuisine. Their booze-free drinks incorporate tropical ingredients and spices that complement the menu’s bold flavors, proving that thoughtful mocktail pairings can enhance a fine dining experience just as effectively as any varietal wine.
Takibi — the Japanese-inspired restaurant in SE Portland — takes a similar approach to their non-alcoholic offerings. Their mocktail menu draws inspiration from traditional Japanese ingredients, and features unique combinations crafted from ingredients like yuzu, shiso, and house-made ginger beer. The precision and attention to detail in their drinks mirrors the restaurant’s meticulous approach to their food menu.
Casual Spots, Serious Drinks
Blank Slate is a cozy café by day and vibrant gathering spot by night that’s become a favorite among the sober (and sober-curious) crowd. Their extensive alcohol-free drinks menu includes everything from complex mixed drinks to locally crafted tap kombucha. The laid-back atmosphere at this woman-owned neighborhood hangout makes it an ideal spot for those seeking a social environment without the pressure to imbibe.
Similarly, Either/Or has mastered the art of creating engaging non-alcoholic beverages that work any time of day. Their signature cascara soda, made from coffee cherry tea, offers a unique alternative to traditional soft drinks. The rotating selection of booze-free cocktail menu offerings also provides upscale options for evening gatherings.
Late Night Adventures
Night owls take note: Holy Ghost has become a beacon in Portland’s evolving nightlife scene. Their zero-proof cocktails incorporate house-made syrups, fresh herbs, and innovative techniques that prove you don’t need alcohol to create a memorable night out. Their Nada Margarita in particular is just as refreshing as its standard counterpart.
Eem (known for their signature Thai BBQ fusion food menu), keeps their non-alcoholic game strong well into the evening hours. Their “Clear Headed” menu section features tropical-inspired “virgin” drinks (like the Pineapple Prerogative, a bracing blend of coconut cream, pineapple soda, lime, cinnamon, and grapefruit) that complement their bold flavors, all while providing a festive drinking experience minus the alcohol.
Over at Canard Restaurant, sober chef/owner Cliff Seminerio’s late-night menu includes several sophisticated non-alcoholic options that pair perfectly with their famous steam burgers and duck stack pancakes. Their commitment to quality hooch-free drinks has made them a favorite among industry professionals looking for after-shift refreshments without the hangover.
Your Home Base for Alcohol-Free Adventure
After exploring Portland’s impressive mocktail scene, return to The Hotel Zags for continued intoxicant-free excellence. Our own Zags Restaurant & Patio has embraced the mocktail movement with an innovative selection of non-alcoholic beverages that reflect our commitment to inclusive, contemporary hospitality.
As Portland’s vibrant sober drinking scene continues to evolve, the city is poised to offer ever more elegant options for those seeking alternatives to traditional cocktails. Whether you’re committed to an alcohol-free lifestyle or simply curious about exploring new flavors, PDX provides an impressive array of establishments ready to serve up memorable drinks that just happen to be alcohol-free. And with The Hotel Zags as your home base for exploration, you’re perfectly positioned to explore it all!