Best Mocktails in Cleveland

Alley Cat Oyster Bar
Why we love it: Perched along the Flats East Bank, this waterfront favorite serves fresh seafood and panoramic river views in a setting that feels equal parts coastal and Cleveland. Behind the bar, the team gives mocktails detailed attention, crafting bubbly sips that fit the breezy vibe. Try this: A spirit-free take on its classic Cat’s Pajamas cocktail, the Kitten’s Pajamas ($6) is a delicious lemonade that can be offered in strawberry jalapeno or blueberry basil. 1056 Old River Road, Cleveland, 216-574-9999, alleycatoysterbar.com  

Amazonia
Why we love it: Inside a cozy, converted Lakewood home, Amazonia feels like an explorer’s retreat with an ever-evolving menu built around flavor and concept. Inventive pours and nuanced alcohol-free versions are all crafted from scratch, as ingredients lead and spirits follow. Try this: The zero-proof Coconut Song ($15) replicates the experience of its alcoholic rendition with a different kind of buzz. A custom blend of Seedlip, Lyre’s and house-made syrups, plus custom smoking techniques and charred lime, add a touch of tropical sweetness, smoke and bitterness for a complex, island-inspired sip. 1640 Hopkins Ave., Lakewood, 216-712-6745, amazoniabar.com 

Amba    
Why we love it: Step into a transportive dining experience where bold Indian-inspired flavors meet vibrant, thoughtfully crafted drinks. The intimate, amber-lit setting makes it an ideal spot to savor the moody ambiance and shareable small plates alike. Try this: The Spiced Nectar ($13) offers a sweet, aromatic and earthy blend of citrusy zero-proof spirit and cardamom agave, finished with a dried lime wheel. 1430 W. 28th St., 216- 417-6718, ambacle.com  

Cloak & Dagger
Why we love it: This Tremont hotspot serves a dark academia aesthetic with moody vibes, elegant details and a touch of culinary mystique. Its ever-changing, all-vegan menu paired with wildly dynamic cocktails and mocktails makes every visit feel unexpectedly unique. Try this: Smaller Acts ($16) is a standout from the Secrets of the World: Act 3 menu that remains available year-round. This silky, nutty mocktail mirrors the richness of its spirited counterpart, balancing coffee, hazelnut and a touch of sea salt for a smooth, luxurious finish. 2399 West 11th St., Cleveland, 216-795-5657, cloakanddaggercle.com

Cordelia 
Why we love it: A love letter to Cleveland’s past and present, this restaurant blends modern creativity with homey heart. “It’s Midwest melting pot meets modern grandma. It’s a celebration of our farmers, purveyors and the seasons,” says proprietor Andrew Watts. Sip a clever craft mocktail while soaking in the bustle of East Fourth Street. Try this: Using Lyre’s and Seedlip with house-made syrups, the bar team creates nonalcoholic versions of their most popular drinks. The 3 Dope Boyz In A Cadillac ($17) swaps in Lyre’s American Malt and Lyre’s Amaretti with apple cider, ginger beer and fresh lemon, finished with skewered candied ginger. 2058 E. Fourth St., Cleveland, 216-230-2355, cordeliacle.com 

Crumb & Spigot 
Why we love it: Blending rustic charm with an upscale atmosphere, this gastropub serves wood-fired pizzas, craft cocktails and an easygoing neighborhood vibe in Lakewood and Bainbridge. It’s a go-to for both casual nights and special occasions. "We were inspired to provide a different avenue versus just normal cocktails," says owner Jamy Bolling. Try this: The Sober Clover ($12) offers a bright, tangy sip that balances sweet grenadine with apple cider vinegar, citrus and a silky egg white finish. 16783 Chillicothe Road, Bainbridge, 440-384-3035; 15322 Detroit Ave., Lakewood, 216-712-6992, crumbandspigot.com

The Fairmount  
Why we love it: This Cleveland Heights gem blends a cozy neighborhood hangout with the style of a modern cocktail lounge, perfect for relaxed evenings or lively weekend outings. The menu features a variety of flavor-packed, spirit-free options, and a new “low-proof” lineup is set to debut soon. “People are becoming more health-conscious and paying closer attention to what they put into their bodies, especially younger folks,” says general manager Brian Matthews. “It’s a nice option to be able to offer.” Try this:  The Little Green One ($10) mixes cilantro, lime, pineapple, mint and jalapeno into a bright verdita juice, topped with Fever-Tree tonic and a Tajin rim for a zesty, booze-free twist on a spicy margarita. 2448 Fairmount Blvd., Cleveland Heights, 216-229-9463, thefairmount.net

Heck’s Cafe  
Why we love it: Across its Avon, Beachwood and Ohio City locations, this local favorite pairs plant-filled interiors and soft lighting with a relaxed, modern vibe. Whether you’re stopping in for brunch, burgers or cocktails, it always feels like the perfect spot to unwind. Try this: The pomegranate-ginger spritz ($10) balances sweet, tart and spicy notes in one refreshing blend topped with a sparkling nonalcoholic wine. Various locations, heckscafe.com

Humble Wine Bar  
Why we love it: Warm lighting, a stone oven and inviting neighborhood energy set the tone for a space that strikes the perfect balance between casual and refined. The wood-fired pizzas and thoughtful wine list make it easy to settle in and stay awhile. Try this: The Phony Negroni ($10) is the perfect evening pairing, featuring a blend of Seedlip Spice, DHOS Bittersweet and Apertivo Rosso. 15400 Detroit Ave., Lakewood, 216-767-5977, humblewinebar.com

Jukebox  
Why we love it: A neighborhood staple in Hingetown, this music-centric bar keeps things casually laid-back and lively with a curated jukebox, regular vinyl nights and a warm, come-as-you-are energy. The menu leans comfort-forward with house-made pierogis and creative bar fare, paired with a drink list that’s as inclusive as it is fun. Try this: Easy-drinking picks include Athletic Brewing’s Cerveza Atletica ($5), BrewDog’s Hazy AF IPA ($5.50) and Surely Brut sparkling wine ($11). For something more intricate, try a house mocktail like the creamy Harry Nilsson ($9). 1404 W. 29th St., Cleveland, 216-206-7699, jukeboxcle.com

Kava Sol  
Why we love it: Kava Sol brings a welcoming boho-chic energy to Downtown Willoughby, shifting from cozy daytime cafe to vibrant evening hangout. Its alcohol-free drinks are crafted with botanicals designed to restore, relax and uplift. “We wanted to create a place where people could socialize without alcohol and find connection and community,” says co-owner Lindsay Kronk. Try this: The Speakeasy ($9) is Kava Sol’s unique twist on an old fashioned, blending bitter and sweet flavor profiles. It features Three Spirit’s social botanical elixir, The Pathfinder Spirit and Kava Sol’s house-brewed elixir, rounded out with orange and maple notes. 4055 Erie St. Rear, Willoughby, 440-710-6065, kavasol.com

Never Say Dive 
Why we love it: With playful bites, inventive cocktails and a nostalgic atmosphere, this spot has defined a bar-scene revival in Old Brooklyn. Try this: The strawberry tonic ($9) is an effervescent delight with strawberry syrup, cinchona bark, fennel seed and basil. If you’re in the mood to crack open a can, check out any of the four nonalcoholic beers offered. 4497 Broadview Road, Cleveland, neversaydivecle.com

Seeing Double  
Why we love it: Tucked away in North Olmsted, this speakeasy-style bar mixes effortless charm with modern flair. The dim lighting, plush seating and live music set the stage for creative cocktails and easy conversation. Try this: With 10 creative mocktails on the menu, mostly bright and fruity, you can still enjoy a fun, flavorful drink without the alcohol. The NA Painkiller ($10) is a tropical blend of coconut, orange, pineapple, lime, grenadine and a sprinkle of nutmeg that tastes like pure vacation. 26880 Brookpark Ext., North Olmsted, 440-641-1267, seeingdoublecle.com

Tartine Bistro  
Why we love it: Treating Rocky River like a little slice of Paris, this bistro pairs classic French charm with West Side ease. Wood-fired quiches and a sidewalk patio elevate any occasion. Try this: The Petit Autumn ($13) blends cider, vanilla, maple, ginger, cayenne and apple butter for a cozy, spiced sip topped with a bruleed apple, while Mon Petit Coeur ($13) layers alcohol-removed red wine with apple cider, cinnamon and maple for a smooth, seasonal treat. “As the years have passed, people have been focused more on wellness, and they’ve removed alcohol from their lives, and I’m also one of those people. So, that kind of pushed me to ensure that there were other options for those who still want to go out and have a nice time,” says general manager Sarah Migal. “It offers them something other than a Coke product or water. I think that’s important, and people appreciate it.” Guests can also choose from several nonalcoholic beers, along with alcohol-removed wines and kombucha. 19110 Old Detroit Road, Rocky River, 440-331-0800, tartinebistro.com

Verbena Free Spirited
Why we love it: After Dry January prompted a lifestyle shift for Molly Cheraso and her husband, she crafted a vision that became Cleveland’s first cafe-by-day, dry-bar-by-night. At the trendy Hingetown store, guests can sample nearly everything on the shelves before taking bottles home, and each craft mocktail is served in elegant glassware to mirror the traditional cocktail experience. Meant to function as a community third place, the inviting shop is adorned with vibrant colors, abstract patterns and charming decor. Its concept aims to fill a gap in Cleveland’s nightlife scene by offering an evening gathering spot that isn’t centered around alcohol. Try this: The New Romantics ($13) is a delicate, yet complex cocktail shimmering with edible glitter and fresh floral notes. The drink packs personality with layers of pink peppercorn gin, peach peony tea, rose syrup and lemon juice for a balanced mix of soft sweetness, gentle spice and bright citrus. Served in a martini glass with a flower garnish, it’s equal parts refined and playful. 1434 W. 29th St. Cleveland, 216-273-7170, verbenafreespirited.com

Viking Public House
Why we love it: Located on the Cleveland State University campus, Viking Public House combines a laid-back, welcoming atmosphere with bold character. Large mead hall-style tables and Viking-inspired decor create an immersive setting that feels both unique and familiar. Try this: “Since we’re on a college campus, a lot of our students aren’t 21 yet, so it’s nice to have something fun for them to enjoy,” says bar manager Amber Flaesgarten. The mocktails draw inspiration from past drinks, each given its own nonalcoholic twist, including the 86 Freya ($5), a refreshing mix of strawberry, lemon and lime finished with a sugar rim — a reimagining of the former Freya 75. 2300 Euclid Ave., Cleveland, 216-802-3131, viking-publichouse.com

The Watson
Why we love it: Hidden behind a faux post office entrance, this Cuyahoga Falls speakeasy turns any night out into an experience. With Gilded Age decor, vintage films and cocktails served in cages, smoke boxes and bubbles, every visit feels like a secret adventure. Try this: With six mocktails on the menu, many of them made with holistic adaptogens, this spot proves zero-proof can still pack a punch. The Pepper Pickletini ($12) is inspired by a nonalcoholic gin mixed with botanicals, fresh brine and a pinch of salt and pepper, and delivers a crisp, savory kick. 1846 Front St., Cuyahoga Falls, 330-801-0009, watsonspeakeasy.com  

Zhug
Why we love it: A lively mix of boldly spiced Middle Eastern flavors and modern energy, rooted in joyful sharing, this Cleveland Heights favorite turns dining into a true communal experience. The airy, industrial space buzzes with warmth as guests share plates piled high with vibrant meze. Try this: The N/A No. 2 ($12) offers a refreshingly bright citrus-forward balance of Ritual gin alternative, lemon and chardonnay vinegar, reminiscent of a sweet Tom Collins. Or, opt for one of the house gazoz drinks ($11), a fizzy soda water infused with fruit syrups for an elevated, flavor-packed sip. 12413 Cedar Road, Cleveland Heights, 216-862-2508, zhugcle.com 

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