The ultimate guide to Dry January in Dublin

If going to the pub is your regular weekend routine, you may not want to go cold turkey on the whole event just because you’re off the beer. Now more than ever, bars all over Dublin are catering to the non-drinkers among us. Bull and Castle in Christchurch is one such bar, offering an extensive list of non-alcoholic beers and mocktails for you to choose from. This local favourite provides a great buzz, tasty food, and friendly service that can be enjoyed without the added stimulation of alcohol. If you’re looking for an alcohol-free beverage and want something a little more crafty than Heineken Zero (although it’s got that too), you’ll have plenty to choose from at Bull and Castle. To get your kicks from food instead try the Charcoal Grilled Gambas with Chimichurri Sauce, or the Ballyhubbock Crispy Halloumi Burger. So indulgent you’ll forget all about Dry January!

Reluctant to visit a venue where the overwhelming majority of patrons are loading up on booze and temptation is everywhere? Steer clear of your old drinking haunts and visit The Virgin Mary instead. Just like the name suggests, The Virgin Mary is an alcohol-free bar on Capel Street that aims to provide a space where people can socialise on a more conscious level. The first of its kind in the city, TVM provides the perfect environment in which those taking part in Dry January can experience a connection that speaks to their lifestyle and wellbeing needs. The menu hosts a selection of carefully crafted drinks aimed to restore, revive, excite, and surprise. We recommend the Tiki Street Cocktail with Syrah, Hibiscus, Pomegranate Molasses and Allspice, or the Stillers Celtic Myst Banana IPA.

There’s no better way to detox your body and kickstart your health journey than with cold-pressed juice. The Juicery in the iconic George’s Street Arcade is the only juice bar in Dublin that cold presses your order by hand. It opened its doors over a decade ago in response to the growing ‘juicing’ trend that was sweeping the US at the time, and remains one of Dublin’s favourite juice bars today. If you want to avoid the pub-scene entirely, but still nab yourself a tasty beverage during your day out in Dublin, head to The Juicery and choose from an extensive menu featuring juice, smoothie, and shot combinations to suit all tastes. We’re big fans of the Green Supreme and the Ginger Zinger, both of which promise to deliver a natural high that is much healthier than the kind you get from alcohol.

If you’re conscious about your gut health, as so many of us are these days, you may be concerned about the alcohol-fuelled damage you’ve inflicted upon yours during the Christmas season. Kombucha is a fermented tea drink that’s packed with gut-healing live bacteria, and it’s now on tap at Clement & Pekoe. After years of perfecting the craft of fermentation, Clement & Pekoe proudly presents its very own brand of delicious Kombucha. Both of the signature flavours, Organic Sencha and Rose Water & Bay Leaf, are certified organic. A fizzy, refreshing and naturally tangy beverage, Clement & Pekoe Kombucha is as delicious as it is healthy. The perfect alternative to booze this Dry January and beyond.

A stroll around Dublin City during the cold winter months often leads to temptation for a pint of Guinness or a hot whiskey, but this Dry January you’ll need an alcohol-free alternative to warm you up instead. Ladurée on the corner of South William Street brings a touch of French finesse to the city, offering a different kind of temptation that you can give in to without breaking your sober pact. At this little boutique cafe you’ll find beautiful hand-crafted macaroons in all colours and flavours. And yes, they taste as good as they look! But if it’s an alcohol-free beverage you’re after, the French-style hot chocolate is an absolute dream. An expert tip to help you through Dry January is to allow yourself a different kind of indulgence from time to time, and you’ll find exactly that at Ladurée.

Dockers is a well-loved traditional pub that specialises in hearty comfort food. Alongside a plethora of alcoholic beverages, here you’ll also find a comprehensive array of alcohol-free beers, spirits and imaginative cocktails. Whether you’re in the mood for a classic (like the 0% take on an Aperol spritz) or a creative concoction (for instance the ‘Hen Pullen’ made with non-alcoholic gin, honey and mango purée), Dockers has something to satisfy every taste. You won’t need to indulge in the homemade pizzas or decadent chocolate-laden desserts to soak up any booze — but you might just find yourself doing so anyway!

Step into Ohana and you’ll instantly be transported to a tropical paradise. This Tiki Bar is known for its fun and lively atmosphere, and coupled with its exquisite array of alcohol-free concoctions, no one will feel like they’re missing out on anything. Sip on a pineapple-infused mocktail and enjoy the great tunes and party vibes. Who said alcohol-free had to be boring?

Jamie’s Italian isn’t just about delectable Italian cuisine; it’s also a place to enjoy non-alcoholic beverages that complement the dishes perfectly. From zesty lemonades and aromatic herbal infusions to 0% beers and non-alcoholic spirits, the drinks are crafted with the same passion and expertise as the food. Our go-to? The Ginger ‘No-Jito’ — a fiery blend of ginger ale, mint, lime and sugar. Yum!

Póg is a wellness oasis that makes not drinking a breeze. This pretty café serves up an array of smoothies, juices and hot drinks that are all prepared fresh on sight. We love the ‘Get Your Green On’ juice (made with apple, spinach, celery, ginger and lime) when we’re feeling extra virtuous, but most of the time we’re far more likely to order the rich Nutella hot chocolate! At Póg, there are plenty of options (across the food and drinks menus) for vegans too, or those with gluten sensitivities. There’s also a killer deal — during the week you can get a coffee with any cake for just €6.50!

At Variety Jones, you’ll find a chef’s choice sharing menu only. To accompany the incredible meal is usually a wine pairing, but the alcohol free drink pairings are equally incredible so fear not! All the no-alcohol drinks are homemade and have proven to be hugely popular. From Blackberry and Apple Kombucha to Chamomile Honey Lemonade and more, the drinks are creative and delicious and perfect for Dry January.