Finally, teetotalers can take their rightful place at the bar, thanks to the trend in well-crafted, nonalcoholic “mocktails.” Whether you’re abstaining from the hard stuff for the evening or for good, these creative concoctions prove there’s more to the art of bartending than booze.
Faux-jito ($5.75)
Cosmo Cafe 1000 K St., Sacramento
The ubiquitous Cuban cocktail gets an alcohol-free makeover. The requisite fresh mint is combined with housemade simple syrup, soda and your choice of fresh strawberry, peach or raspberry purée.
Build-Your-Own Virgin Mary ($7)
Ink Eats and Drinks 2730 N St., Sacramento
Wanna play bartender? Start with housemade Bloody Mary mix, then personalize your drink with an array of fresh ingredients, including blue cheese-stuffed olives, asparagus spears, celery stalks, horseradish and more. Available at Saturday and Sunday brunch.
Elderflower Soda ($4)
Ella Dining Room & Bar 1113 K St., Sacramento
Here’s a soda for sophisticates: Austrian elderflower syrup and sparkling water, served on the rocks with a lemon twist.
Grapefruit Press ($4.50)
Tazzina Bistro 614 Main St., Woodland
Fresh-squeezed Ruby Red grapefruit juice is served in a tall glass over ice with soda water and simple syrup. Counting calories? Ask for the sugar-free syrup for a beverage that’s as virtuous as it is refreshing.
