For the dry January drinker, there are plenty of luxurious cocktail lounges and bars to savour the perfect alcohol-free cocktails in and around Bond Street this month. Our pick of the best places to feel virtuous as you sip on a freshly shaken mocktail begins with the Donovan Bar at Brown's Hotel.
Here, the drinks offering includes alcohol-free versions of the dreamy Head in the Clouds, a “blend of opulence and earthy magic” made with Seedlip and served in a glass nestled inside a theatrical golden egg casing, all of which is guaranteed to cause an incredulous gasp when you open it. From first sip it will change your perception of “boring” non-alcoholic alternatives, as will the new Wonderland mocktail. The latter’s zero-ABV iteration is “short, audacious and tart”, made with a splash of alcohol-free aperitivo Amarico. Links to the famous storybook can also be seen in the red heart motif sprinkled on its surface.
Elsewhere, the Beaumont Mayfair's intimate Le Magritte bar is synonymous with art-inspired cocktails and mocktails. The Red Tower is a delicious mix of Everleaf Mountain, hibiscus syrup, pineapple juice, lemon juice and lemonade. Taking inspiration from the Italian surrealist painter Giorgio de Chirico’s painting of the same name, this zesty thirst quencher is both vibrant and aromatic. A Moment of Calm, made with Seedlip Grove, basil syrup, lemon juice and apple juice, takes its name from the painting by the German painter Max Ernst, an early pioneer of both the surrealist and Dada movements.
Finally, where better to contemplate your new year resolutions than in the comfort of The Connaught Bar? Here, director of mixology Agostino Perrone has been busy putting a zesty twist on the non-alcoholic offering. For instance, the new Wayfarer features a combination of non-alcoholic botanical spirit, soft berries and sparkling flowers and fruit. Spicy juniper undertones balance with refreshing eucalyptus and bright citrus to give it a touch of fiery heat.
Here's to Dry January and your good health. Cheers!