Bar hop - 'Where can I go for a good choice of non-alcoholic drinks?'

published on Oct 25 2007 - 22:26

►If you’re in the CBD and not looking to get smashed, then you’re probably not working hard enough. But if you must insist on no alcohol, Rogues Bar and Bistro is a solid choice. No ‘mocktails’ yet, but this place offers a good range of fruit juices ($8), including pink grapefruit and cranberry, at surprisingly normal prices. (Remember, you are in the CBD.) The sugar-kissed iced lemon tea ($6) also hits the spot on a hot night.

►The folks at Barfly could’ve fooled us – and in fact, they did – with their non-alcoholic drinks that taste amazingly like the real thing. The bar has nine ‘mocktails’, including a zingy and refreshing virgin margarita, served in a proper margarita glass, salt on the rim and all. Flavours include lime, mango, peach or strawberry. And though a little steep at $10, they’re a lovely luxury, especially if you’re designated driver for the evening.

►A short shuffle down the block is Kandi Bar, a funky hangout with great music, decor and a drinks list for everyone to enjoy. Don’t leave without trying the fantastic ice-cream cocktails. We can’t argue with dessert in a glass, and the Banana Belafonte (banana, pineapple, coconut, lemon, lime and vanilla ice cream, $11) is pure non-alcoholic pleasure. There are three to choose from, and then an extensive list of $9 mocktails, including a tangy Pussy Foot (cranberry, pineapple, orange and milk) that will give you a kick for the dance floor.