The Best Nonalcoholic Drinks In Chicago 2015 | Tasting Table CHI
The best nonalcoholic drinks in Chicago
Whether you've resolved to drink less in 2015 or you're just thirsty for something that won't leave you weakly reaching for ibuprofen in the morning, there's no shortage of Chicago restaurants and bars slinging nonalcoholic drinks every bit as satisfying as their boozy counterparts. Here are a few of our favorites:
For a sure bet, stop by Perennial Virant to sip an always-available seasonal mocktail ($6). Much like chef Paul Virant's farm-to-table approach to food, the drink's ingredients change according to what's fresh, in season and readily available from local purveyors. The current iteration balances spice with citrus and includes ginger beer, lemon balm, lemon verbena and fresh lemon juice.
Although tiki-themed hotspot Three Dots and a Dash doesn't list any nonalcoholic options on its drink menu, anything can be made virgin upon request. Our pick? The Bunny's Banana Daiquiri ($13 with liquor, $11 without), a frozen blend of coconut, banana, lime and nutmeg that's topped with the coolest banana-dolphin garnish we've ever seen.
Located within the elegant Four Seasons Hotel Chicago, Allium spikes its two booze-free offerings with nothing but a touch of luxury. The strawberry mint lemonade ($8) is a refreshing, summery escape from Chicago's seemingly endless winter, while the ginger fizz ($8)—a warming concoction of apple cider, pomegranate and ginger beer—is perfect for sipping next to the glowing fireplace.
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Chef-driven SpritzBurger is home to not one but five liquor-free effervescent drinks, including soothing Three Tea ($3) made with black tea, green tea, hibiscus tea, sparkling water and a touch of honey, and an anything-but-ordinary Mandarin Orange soda ($3) with herbes de Provence, sparkling water and agave. Pair your drink with one of the restaurant's gourmet burgers for full effect.
And when Bloody Marys and mimosas just won't do, complement your brunch with one of South Water Kitchen's nonalcoholic cocktails, such as the house-made lavender soda ($4.50), brightened with blackberry preserves and lemon juice.
Staying sober has never tasted so good.