MOCKTAILS? OR MOCKTALES? –
March 8, 2022 – “Back then, the majority of places would have a token lemonade with fresh herbs or something with ginger beer, drinks that were very one dimensional,” he explains. “Just because you’re not drinking doesn’t mean you need less of an experience.”
Bragg says he puts as much thought and research into the spirit-free cocktails served at Southern Belle as he does for the drinks containing alcohol. He believes around 10 percent of guests who dine at Southern Belle opt for non-alcoholic drink pairings with the restaurant’s tasting menu.
“I knew there was a market for people not consuming alcohol, but I was completely unprepared for how popular it was going to be,” he says. “I think a retail and non-alcoholic venue would work really well here [in Atlanta], and it’s something I would definitely check out in a social setting.”
Eubanks and Rainey are betting on that popularity Bragg is currently experiencing at Southern Belle, particularly given that many zero-proof drinks and spirits are only available online or in traditional bottle shops, where people in recovery may feel uncomfortable shopping.
