A night out doesn’t necessarily have to be covered in alcohol. In fact, more and more people prefer alcohol-free alternatives to retain control, be able to drive back home and even avoid next-day hangovers.
Fortunately, there are loads of alcohol-free drinks to consider. And no, it’s not all about non-alcoholic beer or mocktails, but the selection goes further than that.
This being said, let’s take a look at some of the best alternatives for a better night out.
CBD/THC Drinks
Based on where you live and the legal status, you can have similar effects with CBD or THC drinks, but without really getting intoxicated in the sloppy way alcohol tends to cause. Both options can help you relax and unwind, but also have a good time. And without intoxicating you.
If you’re looking for a solid place to start, Littlerick.co.uk makes some great CBD drinks that hit that exact sweet spot
Of course, you should try them first, so you can determine how they make you feel upfront. Normally, you should be able to drive immediately. And, of course, there’s no hangover associated with such beverages.
Kombucha
Kombucha is a fermented tea, a fizzy drink that gives you a tangy bite and a lovely crisp finish. Most people associate kombucha with a healthy beverage after a meal. However, it’s just as sophisticated on a night out.
Kombucha can become fancy and appropriate for nights out when served in chilled glasses with an aromatic garnish like fresh rosemary or an orange peel. It’s relaxing, healthy and, since it doesn’t include any alcohol, you can obviously drive right after a few drinks.
From a healthy point of view, it supports gut health, provides plenty of antioxidants and keeps the sugar intake under control, which is helpful if you’re on a diet.
Functional and Adaptogenic Drinks
Functional and adaptogenic drinks represent a trend these days. Like kombucha, they provide a safe and healthy alternative to alcohol. However, while kombucha has certain benefits, these alternatives can be enhanced with all kinds of adaptogens and nootropics.
Therefore, you can find numerous health benefits, but also the option to elevate your mood without even touching alcohol. Again, this is all natural, so there are no side effects associated with these alcohol-free drinks, let alone the next-day hangover.
Here are a few examples:
- Mushroom coffees for energy.
- Botanical sodas featuring ashwagandha, lemon balm or l-theanine for anxiety and stress relief.
- L-theanine and caffeine for energy and focus.
- Energy drinks based on healthy ketones.
- Prebiotic sodas or fermented drinks. Kombucha is a good example here.
- Electrolyte and water mixes.
Botanical Sodas and Pressés
Botanical sodas and pressés are somewhere in the middle. You can have a bit of fizz, some natural sugar as well, but also a few health benefits. They make a good mix between classic soda drinks (rich in sugar) and natural smoothies with lots of vitamins and other nutrients.
Again, when it comes to pressés, your options are extremely varied. You can find elderflower and sparkling rhubarb, for example. You can also find a mix of peach and strawberry enhanced with plain sparkling water.
Often considered premium, these drinks tend to come in unusual combinations, only to make a bit of a difference. They’re meant to feel both fancy and festive.
Sparkling Hop Water
This is one of the best alcohol-free drinks out there. While not as popular as mocktails or other alternatives, it’s quickly gaining notoriety. And for some good reasons! If you like beer, this is probably the next best thing (apart from the nonalcoholic version of beer, of course) because it delivers that exact piney bitterness you crave.
Basically, sparkling hop water doesn’t have any calories in most cases (unless you choose a variety with extras). It has no alcohol either. However, it’s infused with hops. Therefore, it has an earthy aroma and a proper fizzy profile. It feels festive and makes an excellent choice for your nights out.
Traditional Bitters
This is a timeless alternative to alcohol. Bitters have always been popular among those who like the bitter taste of alcohol, but they don’t want any alcohol whatsoever. Anyway, bitters are always available in pubs and bars. Even if they’re not on a menu, any bartender can get you one in just a few seconds.
On the same note, classic lime and soda (pretty much the same thing) are just as popular. It looks like a mixed drink, it tastes good, and it keeps you hydrated. It feels festive enough to enjoy on a night out too, so you can’t go wrong with it when you want something fast and effortless.
Non-Alcoholic Wine & Sparkling Wine
Non-alcoholic wine isn’t really a top choice. In terms of alternatives, you’ll normally find beer and mocktails. However, ask around and you’ll be surprised to find more options, including sparkling wine too.
Non-alcoholic wine can provide the classic dining pairing and toast, but without alcohol.
Non-Alcoholic Spirits
Botanical distillates are just as popular these days. They replicate all kinds of spirits. Whether you’re into tequila, rum or gin, you can get your desired drinks with no alcohol at all. While mostly based on flavors, the replication is perfect in terms of taste, flavor and aroma and they mix beautifully with your favourite premium tonics.
Non-Alcoholic Aperitifs
Last, but not least, don’t forget aperitifs either. From bitter to herbal blends, you’ll find refreshing, yet complex spritzers that work wonders on ice. They work well in different mixes, cocktails and long drinks as well, to give your evenings an authentic European café feel.
In conclusion, you do have quite a few alternatives when looking for alcohol-free drinks. Whether you want to drive after a night out, keep clear or simply avoid hangovers, your preferences are irrelevant. No matter what you’re after, you’ll find it. And yes, the taste won’t let you down.
Image: Depositphotos
