Sometimes you want the look and feel of a cocktail without any of the headache (literally and figuratively). That's where mocktails come in. Flirty, festive, and fun, mocktails have come a long way since the Shirley Temples of yore. So, who better to ask about the year's best non-alcoholic drinks than the MICHELIN Inspectors? After all, our intrepid inspectors are on the clock most nights and can't afford to feel foggy the day after. Below, we share drinks that deliver everything but the booze, including refreshing wellness-minded spritzes. And for those wanting a drink with punch, make sure to check out our list of the top cocktails of 2022.
Toronto - Quetzal
The Green Michelada: Combining non-alcoholic beer and chili-spiked green juice, this drink brings a touch of heat with a spiced salt rim.Washington, D.C. - Ellē
Sour Wilbur: Bright, yet earthy, this mocktail marries pomegranate juice and black walnut for depth while an orange peel garnish adds contrast.San Francisco: Nari
Mayura: Head to the tropics with familiar flavors (and balance) with this composed mocktail made from Lyre's non-alcoholic spiced cane spirit, passionfruit, pineapple, non-alcoholic aperitivo, and lime.California Wine Country: Barndiva
Shiso Mojito: An alcohol-free take on the classic cocktail with a modern (and deceptively simple) twist—shiso-infused simple syrup and soda water.New York: Indian Accent
Garden Reviver: Intoxicating and refreshing, this herbal and vegetal forward potion made with ginger, green chili soda water, jasmine tea and fresh mint soothes with subtlety.New York: La Devozione: The Oval
Commedia al pomodoro: Savory and slightly sweet, this elixir made with tomato water coupled with a blood orange soda over ice is delightful and invigorating.Hero image: Quetzal's Michelada Verde mocktail
© Rick O'Brien