Try Some Favorite Non-Alcoholic Drinks Around Sarasota

Oftentimes drinking and beach vacations go hand-in-hand thanks to Jimmy Buffet songs like “Margaritaville” and “It’s Five O’Clock Somewhere.” It’s easy to see why daiquiris and sandy toes go together like sunshine and Sarasota County.

However, drinking isn’t always an option for everyone. Younger generations are even participating in the ‘sober-curious’ or ‘sober-sometimes’ movement, which means they are choosing to abstain from alcohol at least some of the time. But just because you’re not looking for a buzz, doesn’t mean you don’t want a tasty and delicious tropical treat.

So, in the spirit of group bonding, we consulted with some of our favorite friends to find the best options for non-alcoholic beverages during your sunny (sober) stay in Sarasota County.

Shore

The sleek mid-century style of Shore is punctuated by gorgeous views and trendy food, so it’s no surprise that they have an entire portion of the menu dedicated to non-alcoholic, healthy beverages. Our favorite options include their Energizing Green Lemonade - made with green apple, ginger and lemon - or the Pink Guava Smoothie - with lime, strawberry and almond milk.

Tommy Bahamas

Across St. Armands Circle from Shore is Tommy Bahama. You might have thought the brand was only famous for their resort wear clothes, but we assure you their menu is equally breezy and tropical. The upstairs patio bar is the ideal spot to grab a mocktail and watch the patrons of St. Armand’s wander from shop to shop. We love the Pain Chiller, an alcohol free piña colada served on the rocks with a dash of fresh nutmeg to keep things interesting. The Faux-jito is another fun way to enjoy a healthy spin on an otherwise classic cocktail.

Jack Dusty

Always at the forefront of beverage trends, Jack Dusty within the Ritz Carlton has a comprehensive selection of “mocktails” for individuals choosing to abstain. Pop in for drinks and a seafood tower and enjoy the gorgeous views of the marina at this see-and-be-seen hotspot in downtown Sarasota. Pick the Ginger Love for an exciting palate experience including flavors like peppercorn, lime, cucumber and ginger beer.

Overton

Perhaps the bar scene isn’t your cup of tea. Head over to the super-contemporary Rosemary District for a glass of hibiscus tea on tap at The Overton. The cool, refreshing and slightly citrusy beverage is the perfect foe for hot and steamy days. If coffee is more your speed, they’ve got you covered there too.

JDubs Brewing Company

Brewery days are always fun, with their family-friendly atmospheres, yard games, and a general neighborhood feel. However, they aren’t always inclusive of our sober friends with limited options like water and soda. JDubs, however, has stepped it up. They’ve teamed with local manufacturer, 221 Kombucha, to offer several different flavors to their sober guests. Like beer, his trendy, tea-like beverage is also brewed with fermentation, but can be sold commercially as a non-alcoholic beverage if the resulting alcohol content is below 0.5 percent. 221 Kombucha has a few flavors that exceed the limit, but most of what you'll find inside JDub's won't require review of your I.D. (when in doubt, just check the label). And, on Wednesday nights when they offer free yoga, kombucha just might be the best way to keep that healthy glow.