These popular watering holes prove alcohol-free cocktails can be just as fun as the real thing.
Employees Only
The West Coast outpost of this legendary New York City haunt provides a Prohibition-era atmosphere and top-notch mixology, including zero-proof cocktails. Go for the teetotaler’s version of a Singapore Sling — Ritual Zero Proof Rum, cherry, lime, pineapple, Fever Tree ginger ale and candied ginger.
Employees Only Website | 7953 Santa Monica Blvd. | 323-536-9045
Saltie Girl
From seafood towers and crispy branzino to caviar service and tinned delicacies, pair the seafood-centric menu at Saltie Girl with the zero-proof String Bean — a combo of nonalcoholic tequila, string bean, lime, orgeat and chili oil — or the refreshing lychee-honey-ginger Yuzu.
Saltie Girl Website | 8615 Sunset Blvd. | 310-734-7296
Or Bar
With a French disco influence, Or Bar pays homage to its location’s history as an LGBTQ+ nightlife destination. In addition to nonalcoholic drinks like a Phony Negroni, you can find booze-free beer and wine on the menu too.
Or Bar Website | 8228 Santa Monica Blvd. | 323-380-6060
Bar Next Door
This tiny spot is nondescript from the outside, but the art-deco style and fantastic drinks landed Bar Next Door on Esquire’s list of “The Best Bars in America” for 2024. The bartenders can make any of the classic cocktails — think old fashioned, gimlet, martini and more — no ABV (alcohol by volume) or low ABV. Or, opt for a glass of nonalcoholic wine.
Bar Next Door Website | 9159 Sunset Blvd.
The Butcher’s Daughter
With an ironic name for a vegetarian restaurant, The Butcher’s Daughter serves plant-forward dishes and cold-pressed juices. Quench your thirst with a Cali Mule, a blend of botanical nonalcoholic spirit, lime, apricot, ginger beer and ginger-lime cactus water.
The Butcher’s Daughter | 8755 Melrose Ave. | 310-707-1630
SUR Restaurant & Lounge
Fans of the Bravo TV shows The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills or Vanderpump Rules are probably familiar with SUR, which has been featured on both. Whether you enjoy a full meal at brunch or dinner, or just stop into the lounge, check out the Virgins section of the cocktail menu for zero-proof takes on a martini, bloody mary and more.
SUR Website | 606-614 N. Robertson Blvd. | 310-289-2824
Ladyhawk
Feast on modern eastern Mediterranean plates at Ladyhawk, from spicy hummus and garlic labneh to octopus and olive-crusted rack of lamb, all complemented by a zero-proof cocktail. Try the Dusty Rose, an elegant combination of rose petals, grapefruit, lemon and lychee topped with pistachio dust.
Ladyhawk Website | 623 N. La Peer Dr. | 213-296-3036
Cecconi’s
Soak up the chic, retro-Roman atmosphere of Cecconi’s while you dine on Italian staples like squash blossoms, handmade cavatelli with lamb ragu and veal chop Milanese. The wine list features two zero-alcohol sparkling options from Odd Bird, which are also used in mocktails like the Grapefruit Spritz and Garibaldi Spritz.
Cecconi’s Website | 8764 Melrose Ave. | 310-432-2000
WeHo Bistro
Post up on the flower-encircled patio at WeHo Bistro for a French-inspired brunch of quiche and crepes or savor a hearty dinner of chicken Dijonnaise or duck breast with cognac and honey sauce. Either way, peruse the mocktails menu and you’ll find the minty Piña Nojito, fruity Moxie Spritz and more.
WeHo Bistro Website | 1040 N. La Cienega Blvd. | 310-657-9696
Electric Owl
Named for the nighttime train conductors of the early-1900s railroad era, Electric Owl’s interior exudes nostalgic vibes. Step back in time as you sip on something from the Free Spirit menu, including the margarita-inspired Flower Sour, made with candied hibiscus, lime juice and orange, or the highball Strawberry Spritz.
Electric Owl | 1451 N. Gardner St. | 323-545-6565
