The Nonalcoholic Bar: Classic and Creative Cocktails for Everyone

Presented by a hospitality veteran and an authority on drinks, this non-alcoholic cocktail book is organized by seven different taste profiles.

There are plenty of reasons to need or want a drink--and plenty of reasons for that drink not to contain alcohol. But simply omitting it often yields a glass of something boring: more than just a buzz-maker, alcohol creates complexity and interest when it’s in a drink. So how do you make up for that when you leave it out?

John deBary is stirring up nonalcoholic beverages that match the flavor, deliciousness, and interest of customary cocktails. Start by assembling your back bar with John’s eighteen core recipes for syrups and infusions, which you’ll partner with ingredients you probably already have on hand. Then pick your taste profile: Are you in the mood for something smoky while you sit by the fireplace? Endlessly searching for spice? Or maybe you want something bright and fruity to welcome in the warmer weather.

Here you’ll find versions of modified classics, like A Moderate Mule, Cucumber Collins, and Honey Sidecar, alongside John’s unique creations, including Tahini Dreamsicle, a rich, nostalgic nod to the favorite childhood dessert; Arctic Cooler, a ＂sophisticated＂ take on blue Gatorade; and Rocking Chair Punch, the perfect setting for canned peaches and Earl Grey tea.

Inclusive and accessible, The Nonalcoholic Bar ensures everyone can have a really great drink.

John deBary is a PDT and Momofuku alum who writes about drinks for Bon Appétit, Thrillist, and Food Network and has an ongoing video series with Food52. He’s also the cofounder of Restaurant Workers’ Community Foundation, whose mission is to improve the quality of life of workers in the hospitality industry.His first book, Drink What You Want, was named one of 2020’s best of the year by Epicurious; he is also the author of Saved by the Bellini (2023), and Drink What you Want: The Deck (2024).