Zero-Proof Alcohol in New Jersey: Find the Best Mocktails, NA Spirits, and Sober-Friendly Bars

Not consuming alcohol is a very individual and personal choice. In some instances, it is made as part of recovery due to drug or alcohol addiction. Other reasons for not drinking may also include health reasons, family responsibilities, and/or becoming more mindful of how alcohol affects the body and mind. Here at the Discovery Institute in Marlboro, New Jersey, we are actively assisting individuals and families navigate these choices on a daily basis. We are aware that finding and utilizing sober, alcohol-free options can significantly increase an individual’s confidence, sense of safety, and long-term well-being.

In recent years, there has been a noticeable increase in the number of locations in New Jersey offering alcohol-free beverages and zero-proof cocktails in the way of restaurants, social environments, and specialty retailers. This guide attempts to help educate and provide readers with assurance through understanding of zero-proof beverages, outlining locations throughout New Jersey where you can find alcohol-free beverages, and how the use of zero-proof beverages can support recovery from alcohol abuse, as well as reduce the risk of relapse and have the support of family.

What Does Zero Proof Mean in New Jersey?

The term “zero proof” is used openly in the restaurant and retail market, but it is also essential to understand the term “zero proof” through a medical and recovery-based perspective. Generally speaking, zero-proof alcohol refers to beverages that are labelled as 0.0% A.B.V., which means that by law it is intended to be alcohol-free.

On the other hand, drinks that are labelled as ‘non-alcoholic’ are allowed to legally contain up to 0.5% A.B.V., which while it may seem like a small amount, can be a very significant amount of alcohol for individuals who are recovering from substance abuse, on certain medications (that would make it dangerous for them to consume alcohol) or who have certain medical conditions. It is generally recommended that individuals recovering from substance use be informed and mindful when making decisions regarding which non-alcoholic beverages they choose to consume.

The importance of labels has significant meaning because they help provide transparency as well as enable people to make informed choices consistent with their health goals. In general, an individual who is going through a course of medical detoxification or who is currently in a residential treatment program would be provided with guidance on how to avoid any alcohol exposure whatsoever. Others may not feel comfortable with trace amounts of alcohol but would be comfortable with alcohol-free drinks. There are no definitive answers. It is dependent on the individual and their recovery.

There are numerous and varied reasons why people choose to consume alcohol-free drinks. Some individuals may feel that when they are out socializing, they would prefer to be able to join in with their friends without being singled out. Other alcohol-free drink consumers will generally report an overall enhancement of their sleep hygiene, or increased clarity of thought and a lesser degree of fatigue or malaise, the next day after consuming non-alcoholic beer and beverages. The vast majority of these consumers believe there is a direct correlation between drinking zero-proof beverages and engaging in mindful drinking habits that continue well beyond the month of January, but into their entire lifestyle.

Where Can You Find the Best Zero-Proof Beverages and Mocktails in New Jersey?

Whereas zero-proof cocktails were once very difficult, if not impossible, to locate throughout New Jersey, those that offer such cocktails are now prevalent and more readily accessible in New Jersey than they have been previously. It is the intent of many establishments throughout New Jersey to provide zero-proof cocktails and alcohol-free alternatives as part of their daily offerings.

In Hudson County, including Hoboken and Jersey City, a majority of restaurants and bars now offer some form of mocktail menu, however, if a venue does not currently offer zero proof options or would like an alcohol-free version of a popular cocktail (or any other, for that matter), being able to view the drink list/menu on the internet or contacting the venue directly would ease any anxiety about ordering.

Along the oceanfront from Monmouth through Ocean counties, coastal restaurants, beachfront seasonal venues, and those throughout the state are providing alcohol-free options for their patrons and their guests. Many of these same establishments will be extremely beneficial for their patrons who are in the process of transitioning from residential treatment to intensive outpatient treatment and rebuilding their daily routines.

New Jersey has witnessed the emergence of alcohol-free establishments that cater to the needs of alcohol-free patrons. A prime example of this would be Mercantile 1888 in Collingswood. Many individuals refer to Mercantile 1888 as being a zero-proof-first bar concept, and therefore does not offer alcohol as part of the venue. Other examples would be “pop-up” events and alcohol-free “community-based” gatherings that are rapidly spreading across New Jersey and that reflect the state’s ongoing cultural shift toward inclusion and wellness.

Another option for individuals who wish to consume alcohol-free beverages in their own home is through specialty bottle shops. For example, Point 5 Jersey in Chester is frequently identified as one of the few alcohol-free bottle shops that offer carefully curated selections of zero-proof spirits. A lot of people seeking to reduce or eliminate their alcohol consumption find that social settings can make it difficult for them to do so. Many of these individuals are either newly sober or returning to social settings after a period of treatment. Having a solid plan in place prior to entering a social situation can eliminate some of the uncertainty associated with ordering drinks in public places. People can decrease some of the pressure in social situations by using simple language and being confident when making their selection of drink, rather than immediately resorting to having to make an explanation about why they are abstaining from alcoholic beverages.

How to Enjoy a Social Life in New Jersey Without Alcohol

Though many people feel that they need to be in an environment where alcohol is served to socialize, there are several alcohol-free activities and events throughout New Jersey, such as yoga classes, outdoor activities, comedy shows, art exhibits, coffee shops, and dessert events that can provide a way for people to build connections and engage socially without consuming alcohol. For people involved in therapy or family support services, these activities can reinforce their healthy routines and strengthen their relationships by creating consistency.

One of the most important protective factors for maintaining sobriety is connection. Providing support and inclusion will minimize feelings of isolation and will strengthen the motivation to remain sober over time.

Zero-Proof Cocktails in New Jersey: What to Order and What to Avoid

When looking through menus for alcohol-free cocktails, there are certain words to look for that may indicate preparation of a more intentional product. Words such as “house-made,” “seasonal,” “botanical,” “spirit-free,” and clearly identifying that a beverage is 0.0% alcohol by volume often indicate a higher quality product that was created with the intent to have an alcohol-free option, rather than an afterthought.

People in recovery should also be aware of the ingredients that are in their drinks. A number of alcohol-free spirits are created to taste and smell like alcohol. For some people, this is empowering and acceptable, while for others it can be very triggering. Therefore, it is important that when it comes to supporting your sobriety, you select the beverage that is best for you. For some people, discussing their beverage options with their therapist, sponsor, or care support team is helpful as part of their overall relapse prevention plan.