Staying Social in Cleveland While Being Sober

Alcohol is such a big part of Cleveland’s social scene that it can be challenging to figure out how to be, well, social without it. “It can feel awkward to try to make friends or just communicate in general,” says Shaunna Jacobs, who is nearly six years sober and works at Stella Maris drug and alcohol treatment center. “It’s about saying yes and being open-minded to new experiences.” For spirited meetups without the spirits, try these four Northeast Ohio options.

Verbena Free Spirited Shoppe

Cleveland’s first nonalcoholic bar and cafe opened in 2023, giving new meaning to the term “dry martini.” “We want people to be included in celebrations no matter what they choose to drink,” says owner Molly Cheraso. It’s quickly become a go-to meetup spot for zero-proof cocktails, offering everything from mezcal to Manhattans at 0.5% ABV or less. 

Stella Maris Coffee Shop

Cleveland’s oldest drug and alcohol treatment center runs a coffee shop open to the general public. With hours from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m., it also serves as a safe space for people in recovery any time of day. 

Related: Cleveland Social App Helps People Get Out and Meet Others

SoBern Journey

After leaving the wine industry, Katie Perdue started a unique nonalcoholic pop-up bar business to share her love of high-end, booze-free brands. She hosts monthly mocktail mixology classes in Mentor, promising no-hangover fun that introduces nonalcoholic brands like Gruvi, Oddbird and A Mockery. “Less than half of my attendees are sober, and the rest are sober-curious,” Perdue says. “There are just so many different reasons that people don’t drink.”

Nekawa Sober Circles

This Lakewood space calls itself “a wellness studio for sacred and sustainable sobriety,” geared toward women and nonbinary people who have at least 90 days of sobriety under their belts. Events range from sound baths and meditation groups to book club nights and wellness-focused guest speakers. “We wanted to create a space that holds deep, meaningful connection,” says Jen Borovica, a social worker who founded the studio.

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