In the weird and wonderful city of Austin, Texas, no-alcohol and low-alcohol lifestyles are becoming increasingly popular, and businesses have been noticing. Not only have bars and restaurants around town been adding alcohol-free options to their menus (many thanks to the expertise of Björn Taylor), but also beverage caterers and event vendors have begun to offer options for hosting a non-alcoholic bar at your wedding or event.
There are several offering an inclusive beverage experience for all kinds of events. Whether it's a corporate wellness event, a campus gathering, or a private celebration, these innovative catering bars are redefining social drinking with their unique non-alcoholic offerings. Let's explore some of the standout options available in Austin:
BaristaKats it's first and foremost a mobile coffee bar that has added mocktails to its list of offerings. The menu includes various lemonades, spritzers, and sodas some made with simple syrups and others with fresh fruit. If you're looking to have both coffee and mocktails at your event, BaristaKats could be a good fit!
Best for: serving coffee and fun and tasty concoctions at your event.
Not recommended for:
If your event prioritizes health/wellness or serving functional beverages.
Dear Dry Drinkery, located in East Austin, is not just a non-alcoholic bottle shop but also a versatile event space. They also offer mobile bartending, either from behind your bar or their table/canopy setup.
What's great about Dear Dry Drinkery is that they can provide a vast array of alcohol-free options, from NA beers and can drinks to zero-proof spirits that can be used to create non-alcoholic versions of traditional and elevated cocktails.
Best for: recreating a traditional alcoholic bar with zero-proof spirits.
Not recommended for: serving functional beverages
Peak Beverage is the one-stop bar catering solution for events across the Austin area. Although they are known for their alcoholic beverage catering, they also offer elevated mocktail options, which go beyond the typical juice and soda offerings found at traditional bars.
We're not sure if they offer a full-service sober bar, but mocktails can definitely be added to any package. If you're looking to have both alcohol and non-alcoholic options at your event, Peak Bev might be a great choice!
Best for: fun and inventive mocktail options. serving both alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages
Not recommended for: serving functional or highly intentional beverages
Swift Events has carved a niche in organizing corporate wellness events, featuring a zero-proof cocktail program. Their services are ideal for companies looking to offer healthier, alcohol-free beverage options that promote wellbeing and inclusivity among employees and guests.
Swift is a great option for corporate events and those looking to also rent an event space.
Best for:
Corporate events, hosting an event in their space
Not recommended for: functional beverages
Operated by a dynamic team of UT students, SHIFT Makers is making waves across the University of Texas campus. They specialize in creating a communal atmosphere at various events by serving delicious zero-proof cocktails. Their service is more than just about drinks; it's about fostering conversation and building community.
According to the website, this service is only available on-campus, but we wanted to include it in our list to celebrate this wonderful initiative to foster wellness and inclusivity on a college campus. Hook 'em.
Best for: any event at UT Austin!
Not recommended for: events not affiliated with the university
And then there's...
Functionality Meets Intentionality: At Altar Native, every elixir is crafted not only to tantalize the taste buds but also to provide functional benefits. From mood-elevating ingredients like kava and cacao to calming herbs like chamomile and lavender, our drinks are designed to nurture both body and soul.
We believe that every event is an opportunity for a deeper connection and a meaningful experience. Our drinks are created with a high degree of intentionality, ensuring that they resonate with the atmosphere and theme of your event.
Altar Native prides itself on offering a high-end service that caters to discerning tastes. Our setups are not just visually stunning but are also thoughtfully arranged to enhance the overall ambiance of your gathering.
We also offer Tastings to preview the menu and/or for hosting an elevated experience with a small group.
Whether you are hosting a corporate event, a private gathering, or a wellness retreat, our elixirs offer a unique way to elevate the occasion. By incorporating functional ingredients and intentional design, we provide an unmatched service that harmonizes intentionality with inclusivity. Learn more about us.
Best for: High vibe and high-end events / serving highly intentional and functional beverages with presentation.
Not recommended for: sugary drinks, full bar offerings, as an unpaid vendor, or private events with over 300 guests.
Conclusion:
Austin's mocktail and zero-proof bar scene is vibrant and diverse, offering something for every event and taste preference. From student-driven initiatives to sophisticated corporate offerings, these cater bars are leading the way in providing inclusive, innovative, and health-conscious beverage options.
In a city celebrated for its diversity and innovation, Austin's mocktail and zero-proof cater bars, including Altar Native, are redefining the landscape of event beverages.
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