The Benefits of Mocktails and Low-ABV Beverages for Food-Service Businesses

Nonalcoholic beverages like mocktails have gained popularity as many consumers look for alcohol alternatives. Mocktails are popular for lots of reasons — they’re just as enjoyable and flavorful as traditional cocktails, they appeal to health-conscious consumers, and they’re perfect for people who don’t like the taste of alcohol.

Another trend is low-alcohol by volume (ABV) beverages. Serving low-ABV beverages and mocktails at restaurants, bars and other establishments allows everyone to enjoy a fun and tasty drink. These beverages add a special touch to menus and allow you to express your creativity by mixing flavors and presenting beautiful drinks.

Why Offer Mocktails at Your Restaurant?

While 62% of adults in the United States drink alcohol, that still leaves a large demographic who abstain entirely. Plus, of that 62% statistic, some may limit their alcohol intake to special occasions or aim to reduce their consumption for health reasons. Mocktails can appeal to all of these individuals and provide the following benefits for your restaurant.

Inclusivity

Mocktails allow everyone to find something delicious on the drink menu. Consumers may want to reduce their alcohol intake or abstain altogether for various reasons:

Nondrinkers: Individuals who abstain from alcohol for cultural or religious reasons can explore the world of mocktails. Additionally, mocktails can be beneficial for some individuals in recovery.
Designated drivers: People who take on the role of designated driver can still get a tasty drink while hanging out with friends and family.
Pregnancy: Pregnant women can enjoy a delicious beverage while prioritizing their and their baby’s health.
Sober-curious: Individuals who want to explore life without alcohol could experiment with yummy mocktails.
Health conditions: Alcohol may affect people with certain health conditions or interact negatively with some medications.
Health-conscious: Many people are mindful of their caloric intake or may choose not to drink alcohol as part of a broader commitment to wellness.

Increased Revenue Potential

Just like regular cocktails, you can tailor mocktails to fit seasonal themes and holidays, making them perfect for special events and celebrations at your restaurant. You can create limited-time offerings that attract more customers during peak seasons, leading to higher overall beverage sales.

Creative Opportunities

Mocktails add an element of creativity to your beverage menu, which may entice guests to try something new and exciting. In addition, you can elevate your guests’ overall dining experience by recommending unique and flavorful options that complement specific meals. All in all, mocktails can enhance the social atmosphere of your venue and encourage repeat visits.

Another Option: How Serving Low-ABV Cocktails Benefits Your Establishment

Low-ABV options can also appeal to consumption-conscious visitors. These beverages are lower in alcohol, though definitions of “low” vary depending on the alcohol type. For example, the Wine & Spirit Education Trust categorizes any wine with an ABV under 11% as a low-ABV wine. There’s currently no set standard for cocktails and beer. However, popular low-alcohol ingredients include sherry, vermouth and amaro.

Why offer low-ABV cocktails when regular cocktails will do? Here’s why drinks with a low ABV in restaurants can be a great option in addition to mocktails:

Flavor complexity: Low-ABV cocktails often emphasize flavor over alcohol intensity. Incorporating spirits or liqueurs can give a more complex flavor profile compared to most mocktails, which rely on nonalcoholic ingredients.
Moderation: Low-ABV cocktails provide an option for guests who want to enjoy the taste of a cocktail while moderating their alcohol intake. This can be especially appealing during long dining experiences or social events.
Celebratory feel: For many, cocktails signify celebration and enjoyment. Low-ABV options maintain that exciting spirit while promoting conscious consumption.
Expanded menu options: Offering low-ABV cocktails adds diversity to your drinks menu. Customers may feel more inclined to try different drinks when they contain less alcohol.

7 Mocktails to Serve at Your Restaurant

To create excitement around your menu, highlight fruits and herbs that are in season. For example, you can use citrus fruits like oranges and grapefruits in winter. This helps you keep your beverage menu dynamic and appealing throughout the year.

Here are six examples of mocktails that will impress your customers.

1. Peppermint Cream Soda Mocktail

During the holiday season, add this festive drink to your menu. Combine the refreshing flavor of peppermint with the creaminess of coconut milk and the sweetness of vanilla cream soda. Use vanilla icing and crushed peppermint candies to rim the glass, enhance the flavor and capture the festive spirit.

2. Salted Caramel Apple Cider

Whether you serve it warm or cold, this cider is a sweet and salty delicacy. It combines the warmth and sweetness of apple cider with the rich flavors of caramel and a hint of salt, creating a comforting drink perfect for fall. Decorate with a fragrant cinnamon stick to enhance the aroma and add a festive touch.

3. Watermelon Mint

During the toasty summer months, add some refreshing mocktails to your menu. To create this one, you’ll need mint leaves, watermelon juice, club soda and fresh watermelon slices for garnish.

4. Toasted Marshmallow Espresso Mocktini

This mocktail combines toasted marshmallow syrup with chilled espresso and half-and-half. Dip the glass in marshmallow cream and torch it to add a beautiful and delicious caramelized finish. It’s a delightful choice for those looking to enjoy a sophisticated beverage without alcohol.

5. Chai Cranberry Spritzer

This mocktail combines the warm spices of chai syrup with the tartness of cranberry juice. Sparkling water or sparkling pomegranate juice adds a refreshing effervescence. A rosemary sprig adds a delightful pine-like scent and look that evokes the holiday spirit.

6. Hazelnut Hot Cocoa

Serve a decadent take on a winter classic with this nutty twist. This indulgent drink elevates the classic hot cocoa by incorporating hazelnut syrup as a substitute for hazelnut liqueur. Topped with chocolate whipped cream and a drizzle of chocolate sauce, you can create a decadent treat that is perfect for the winter season. It captures the festive spirit and provides a nonalcoholic option for those looking to enjoy a sweet winter beverage.

7. Moscow Mule

Swap the vodka for club soda to create a delicious Moscow mule perfect for spring and summer. Combine the club soda with ginger beer, lime and mint leaves. You can also use cranberry juice in place of club soda for a sweet and sour twist.

3 Low-ABV Drink Ideas

You can also add these tasty low-ABV drinks to your menu:

1. Garibaldi

This easy-peasy, low-ABV cocktail combines Campari and orange juice. To shake things up, you can add grapefruit juice, orange bitters — you can choose nonalcoholic bitters to keep the ABV low — and flaky sea salt.

2. Americano

Combine sweet vermouth, Campari and club soda for a thirst-quenching low-ABV cocktail.

3. Pumpkin Spice Spritz

This pumpkin cocktail is perfect for your fall menu. It uses Prosecco, pumpkin spice shrub, soda water and a cinnamon stick.

Impress Your Customers With Ingredients From Feeser’s

Creating a diverse and appealing low-ABV cocktail and mocktail menu is essential for attracting customers looking for low-alcohol and nonalcoholic options. To elevate their experience, source high-quality mixers, fresh juices, syrups and garnishes from Feeser’s Food Distributors.

When you partner with Feeser’s, you can get high-quality beverage ingredients that impress customers. Whether you need syrups, spices or candies, we provide outstanding products to enhance your drink menu. We’ll also work with you as an ongoing consultant to keep your menu in top-notch shape.

The Benefits of Mocktails and Low-ABV Beverages for Food-Service Businesses