The rise of alcohol-free bars in NYC
Did you know that as of July 2024, we now have FOUR completely alcohol-free bars in New York City? How crazy is that? Time for a round-up!
1. No More Café (East Village)
No More Cafe @nomorecafe is a gorgeous European style café by Chef Rodrigo Nogueira, a hospitality and restaurant veteran who makes all non-alcoholic spirits from scratch! The café offers amazing upscale non-alc craft cocktails, zero-proof wines, charcuterie, small plates, and oysters - this is your go-to spot for an elevated (friend) date. Or do what I do and just hang out during the day, grab a coffee, and get some work done! They were recently gifted a piano and are looking to host a few live jazz nights - how amazing is that?
2. Rent Money Lounge (LES)
Rent Money Lounge (what a cool name?!) @rentmoneylounge is a coffee shop by day, laid back alc-free lounge by night. They host tons of events like comedy shows, karaoke, and djs on Sunday afternoons, and they’ve got a hidden nail salon in the back that I SWEAR by. For those of you who are cali-sober, they also have a great selection of THC drinks for the good vibes! Danielle, the owner who also runs a hair salon in the neighborhood, has somehow befriended the entire neighborhood including the local fire department, so don’t be surprised if there’s a fire truck parked outside.
Update: As of October 1 2024, Rent Money is closed.
3. Kosmic Community Anti-Bar (East Village)
Kosmic Community @kosmiccommunityantibar on Avenue C is the new kid on the block, a super quirky café that offers coffee, tea, kava, homemade non-alc drinks, and non-alc beer. It’s a great spot to get some work done during the day, hang out in their little backyard, or stop by late for a drink - they’re open until midnight during the week and 2am on weekends! The owners, James and Grace, are the sweetest people, and I’m genuinely excited to have them in the neighborhood!
4. Hekate (East Village)
Of course, Hekate @hekatenyc on Avenue B is the OG sober bar in the city! It's got laid back neighborhood bar vibes and a huge selection of non-alc cocktails, beer and wine. They're open for coffee & tea during the day too, and you’ll often find a tarot reader there!