Alcohol-Free Social Starters — enjoyable drinks & rituals

5 min read

Why it matters

Lots of people want the social ritual without the next-day drag. With a few basics, alcohol-free nights feel grown-up and fun — not like “just a lemonade.”

What to avoid

  • Drinks that are basically sugar bombs.
  • Overdoing caffeine after mid-afternoon.
  • Complicated recipes you won’t repeat.

What to look for

  • Botanical spirits, unsweetened mixers, and great glassware.
  • Fresh garnish: citrus peel, mint, rosemary, cucumber ribbons.

Quick picks (2-ingredient ideas)

  • Herb Spritz: 50ml botanical spirit + soda, lemon peel.
  • Bitter Lime Soda: soda + AF bitters + lime wedge.
  • Cucumber Cooler: soda + cucumber ribbons + pinch of sea salt.

Hosting tip

Create a tiny “AF bar”: a spirit, soda, bitters, nice ice, lemons.
Put it out like you would a normal bar — people love the option.


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