Top 10 Spots for Mocktails in Arlington

Looking for the best non-alcoholic drinks in Arlington? You’re in the right place! As the demand for zero-proof cocktails continues to grow, Arlington has become a hotspot for innovative and flavorful alcohol-free experiences. From cozy neighborhood restaurants to stylish lounges, you’ll find an impressive selection of handcrafted mocktails designed to delight every palate.

Whether you're a designated driver, embracing a healthier lifestyle, or simply looking for a unique and flavorful beverage, here are 10 great spots to check out around Arlington (in no particular order).

Credit | @whinoinc via Instagram

1) El Rey

El Rey in Ballston Exchange features a colorful environment and incredible lunch, happy hour and brunch menus. Aside from their delicious food, and extensive margarita offerings, El Rey’s menu also features strawberry, mango and passion fruit mocktails.

2) Palette 22

This charming restaurant in the heart of Shirlington offers diners flavorful global small plates and unique custom cocktails, in a fun and artistic setting. At Palette 22, diners can enjoy a variety of delicious food, but their drinks menu also features tasty refreshers and mocktails, perfect for enjoying on a night out. Fans of ginger-based drinks can try their Basil-Ginger Lemonade. Those looking for something sweet can delight in their Strawberry Fields mocktail (with strawberry puree, pineapple juice, lime juice and club soda.)

3) Ruthie's All Day

This cozy comfort food restaurant is an Arlington staple in the Columbia Pike neighborhood and has garnered many accolades over the years. Although they are best known for their incredible brunch, and overall delectable menu, Ruthie’s also offers three house mocktails: the Garden Sipper (with cucumber, honey, mint, lemon) their Tea Refresher (with iced tea, ginger, mint) and their Draft Kombucha (with wild bay, strawberry and lavender).

4) Salt

This hidden gem, speak-easy style cocktail bar is attached to the Open Road restaurant and is known for its handcrafted drinks and intimate atmosphere in Rosslyn. Their craft cocktail menu is incredibly creative and even includes a couple of zero-proof cocktails: The Under Pressure, (with pear, sage, cinnamon, fresh lemon and elderflower tonic) and the Another One Bites the Husk (with corn horchata syrup, cinnamon, coconut milk and coconut water).

5) SER

SER (Simple Easy Real) is a Ballston neighborhood staple, serving authentic Spanish cuisine in a warm and inviting setting. Not only will you find mouthwatering dishes, but SER is also known for their dazzling specialty cocktails, and zero-proof cocktails. Stop by to try the Lunita G&T (with zero proof gin, fresh green apple, lemon, strawberries and mint) or The Major Negroni (with zero proof whiskey, turmeric, orange, cinnamon smoke, and cherry).

6) Sfoglina

This upscale yet relaxed Italian pasta house located in Arlington's Rosslyn neighborhood offers diners delicious and authentic Italian cuisine. From their sizeable pasta offerings to their fun happy hour menu, this spot is a haven for foodies. Their cocktail list leaves nothing to be desired, and for those opting out of alcohol it also includes a couple of zero proof cocktails like the Apple Cider Sparkling Lemonade and the Spritz Zero.

7) Surreal

Surreal, by Chef Enrique Limardo in Crystal City, offers a global twist on American diner food in a vibrant and colorful environment. Not only does their menu include a variety of unique dishes, but it also contains a section dedicated to zero proof cocktails. Take your pick from their Zero Proof Pina Colada (with zero proof spirit, pineapple, coconut, and condensed milk), their Zero Proof Lychee Martini (with zero proof spirit, lychee, and figs), and their Enchanted Lemonade (with lemon, lime, condensed milk, and blue spirulina).

8) WHINO

This modern open-concept venue in Ballston Quarter invites patrons to inhabit large-scale mural installations while enjoying craft cocktails, beer, wine and globally inspired social plates. Along with a myriad of colorful cocktail offerings, WHINO's menu includes a non-alcoholic section with drinks for every taste preference. Try their Blood Orange Moon, Lime After Lime, or Smoke Without Fire mocktails.

9) Carbonara

Best known for their iconic Italian pasta dishes, Arlington favorite, Carbonara, located between Ballston and Virginia Square, offers three seasonal mocktails including Matcha in Vienna, Autunno Spritz, and an Apple Butter Espresso Martini. Make sure to check back as the seasons change for updated offerings.

10) Circa at Clarendon

Circa at Clarendon is an American bistro with creative seasonal fare, a buzzing bar scene, a large patio and also - a variety of zero-proof mocktails to choose from! From their Blossom Lounge and Pineapple-Jalapeño Faux Rita, to their To Each Their Own and Ruby Rose, there's something for every taste at Circa.

Related Stories:

Author

Jackie Evans

Featured: