By Francesco Lafranconi
As we dive into the New Year and embrace the season of resolutions, an estimated 20% of American adults embark on the journey of Dry January, a monthlong commitment to abstaining from alcohol during the first month of the year. It’s a perfect time to indulge in delicious alternatives!
This initiative offers a refreshing break after the holiday celebrations, providing a guilt-free opportunity to embrace moderation without the need for explanations. The allure of Dry January has grown stronger as the non-alcoholic beverage market has taken off, boasting a remarkable array of non-alcoholic still and sparkling wines, hop-forward IPA substitutes beers, sophisticated aperitifs and zero-proof cordials and spirits.
The Dry January trend represents a significant cultural shift in how we view alcohol consumption and wellness. It encourages individuals to take a break from drinking after the often-indulgent holiday season, providing an opportunity for reflection, moderation and healthier choices.
It highlights the growing demand for non-alcoholic alternatives, pushing brands and bars to innovate and offer exciting, flavorful options that do not compromise on taste or experience.
Whether you’re participating in Dry January or simply seeking delightful alternatives to alcohol, there’s an abundance of exciting options to explore here in Las Vegas.
Among the great resorts on the Las Vegas Strip, non-alcoholic cocktails are featured on several beverage menus, providing an elevated experience for all guests. Wynn Resort has been leading the way by offering exquisite non-alcoholic craft cocktails catering to everyone looking to enjoy outstanding hospitality without the alcohol.
At Sala 118 Lounge located inside The Venetian, guests can enjoy a non-alcoholic version of their signature house (zero-proof) Negroni called Not So Negroni made with Lyre’s Dry London Spirit, Lyre’s Italian Orange and Lyre’s Apéritif Rosso. Another great option is the Tiny Bubbles with Lyre’s Italian Orange, Lyre’s Apéritif Rosso and Fever-Tree Sparkling Sicilian Lemonade.
Carversteak at Resorts World offers the vibrant, whimsical C’mon Barbie, Let’s Go Party with its Wonder Dust sparkling shimmer and Lyre’s Pink London, The Zesty featuring a bright fusion of yuzu-cucumber flavors and Fever Tree Sparkling Lime, as well as Lewis Hamilton’s Almave Ambar Distilled Non-Alcoholic Blue Agave Spirit mixed with the newly released Fever Tree Espresso Martini Mix, Vanilla-Agave Nectar and Dulce de Leche.
At Bazaar Meat in the Sahara, guests can enjoy two very delicious offerings such as Firefly crafted with Gnista barreled oak non-alcoholic spirit, saffron, Thai basil, chili tincture and Fever Tree Tonic and the Emerald Coin with Seedlip 42 Grove non-alcoholic spirit, honeydew, lemongrass, lime and celery.
Even some of our top local tiki spots embraced the zero-proof journey. Stray Pirate in The Arts District has a great selection under “Virgin Voyage … for scallywags skipping their ration, but not their voyage” with cleverly named delights like the Dry Tai and Captain’s Choice No-Jito.
At Golden Tiki in Chinatown, they are also embracing the trend with some very well-crafted zero-proof options including N/A Pain Killer and Salud, a wellness shot of ginger, turmeric, honey, Kalinago Carib and lemon juice, allowing you to soak in their captivating atmosphere while sipping something special.
If you find yourself in The Arts District, check out Sin City Saints Booze-Free Bottle Shop, a non-alcoholic premium adult beverages store (closed on Tuesdays, and appointments are recommended). More: SCSBev.com
Las Vegas, known for its pleasure-seeking party scene, has wholeheartedly embraced inclusivity by offering options that cater to every preference. It’s easy to think of non-alcoholic cocktails as merely about abstinence, but they invite everyone to join in on the fun without the pressure of answering questions like “Why aren’t you drinking?” or “Are you compromising your experience?”
Get ready to enjoy a new perspective on nightlife that welcomes everyone’s tastes and expectations. Cheers to indulgence without compromise!
Francesco Lafranconi
@ImbibeInStyle @flafranconi
