Verbena Free Spirited in Ohio City to Close

For the past three years, Verbena Free Spirited (1434 W. 29th St.) has existed as a welcoming third space for the NA community. Founder Molly Cheraso developed her business plan during Covid, a time when many people, like herself, were taking a good, hard look at their relationship with alcohol.

“People are craving alternatives to alcohol, whether they want to drink less, less often, or not at all,” explains Cheraso. “Verbena invites everyone to the celebration, creating an environment and menu that is just as thoughtfully constructed as any craft cocktail. We couldn’t be more thrilled to find our first permanent home and join this continued renaissance of the greater Ohio City neighborhood.”

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The rise of spaces like Verbena, and the proliferation of NA options on bar and restaurant menus around town, is confirmation of the work that Cheraso has been doing to support that community.

But at the end of this month, Verbena will close, says Cheraso. The last day of service will be Saturday, September 26.

“Running this shop has been one of the great honors of my life. I’ve gotten to work with truly amazing people and be a part of an outstanding small business community in Hingetown and I will never forget it.”

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On Sunday, September 27, Cheraso will throw a going away party where fans can stop in to say thank you and goodbye while drinking up the remaining inventory.

But it won’t be the last we see or hear from Cheraso, she adds.

“I’ll continue hosting non-alcoholic events and consulting with restaurants to help get excellent NA options on to menus across the city.”

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