Enjoying Life on the Mocktail Trail

Like its culinary scene, mocktails are having their moment on Florida’s Historic Coast.

Known for its vibrant culinary scene, St. Augustine has long attracted visitors who appreciate the artistry of local chefs and their farm-to-table creations. Taking advantage of the bountiful fresh produce available locally has now spurred mixologists and bartenders to embark on their own creative explorations. And for those who prefer to celebrate without spirits, you’re in for a genuine treat. Here, just about any restaurant in the area will be happy to mix a custom libation to your liking, whether it’s on the menu or not. So, if you’re hankering for something fizzy or something a little more exotic, get ready to enjoy life on the mocktail trail.

If you’re in the historic district be sure to visit The Ice Plant, notorious for its knowledgeable mixologists who also seem to be magicians when it comes to crafting cocktails and mocktails. Known for its artisanal approach to beverages, The Ice Plant combines house made syrups and sodas, fresh fruit and savory herbs and spices to infuse its mocktails--along with its signature ice. On Aviles Street, stop in at Forgotten Tonic for some tasty mocktail combinations you won’t soon forget. At River & Fort, soak in the stunning view of the Castillo and the Matanzas Bay from the rooftop bar while you sip on a blackberry mojito, a cucumber gimlet or a passionfruit sipper. Or have the bartender whip up something special just for you.

The Floridian has built its reputation on its southern cuisine and equally southern hospitality. They’ll be happy to concoct a mocktail to your liking using their famous farm-to-table approach to drinks that they use to create their scrumptious dishes. Further uptown at Castillo Craft Bar & Kitchen, located in the new Renaissance Hotel, a mocktail that combines tropical fruit and a splash of ginger is both zesty and visually stunning.

Asado Life's mocktail options provide a refreshing accompaniment to the stunning views of the San Sebastian River, offering a delightful blend of flavors to enhance the experience. Whether enjoying a citrus-infused spritzer or a herbal mocktail, sipping on Asado Life's beverages amidst the picturesque backdrop of the river creates a truly memorable and relaxing atmosphere.

The newly opened Pesca by Michael’s in nearby Vilano at the Hyatt Place hotel, is worth the trip to drink in the beauty of this beachside resort from the rooftop bar. Along with wonderful cuisine inspired by the freshest local seafood, Pesca offers equally beautiful mocktails combining fresh fruit juices, local berries and mint.

Further up the coast in Ponte Vedra Beach, the new 1912 Ocean Bar & Rooftop provides the perfect seaside location to relax and breathe in the ocean air. You’ll want a magnificent mocktail to accompany the magnificent view. 1912 won’t disappoint. Try the Almond Sangria Fizz, an inventive mixture of orgeat syrup, white grape, orange, lemon, lime and club soda. Or a Faux-Pache, made with Fever Tree Ginger Beer, pineapple, lime and mint. So simple, yet simply divine. And a perfect complement to their lite bites and raw bar appetizers.

No matter where you choose to dine or how you wish to celebrate with friends and family, you’ll find lots of restaurants, bars and night clubs that are happy to accommodate your desire to celebrate without spirits and without sacrificing flavor. Cheers!

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