The verdict is in: Charleston may very well be one of the south’s favorite party spots, with cool bars and breweries on every corner, but if you are living — or even toying with the idea of trying — a sober lifestyle, there are plenty of options for you too! When we were out and about checking out the dry scene, we found that the bar tenders around town are more than happy to serve up non-alcoholic options. For example, at 17 Prime Steakhouse in West Ashley, we were promptly served a glass of non-alcoholic champagne, and the late night bartender at DIG in the Park in Olde Town Park Circle rattled off a bunch of booze-free concoctions she recently curated. But to get specific, all of the spots mentioned below have something to offer anyone on the proverbial wagon, and there are plenty more out there. There has never been a better time to be sober (or sober-ish!) in Charleston!
JAMES ISLAND DRY BAR
Located inside Charleston Hemp Collective, the James Island Dry Bar is the first Cannabis Dry Bar in South Carolina. This gorgeous spot has such good vibes, and serves craft mocktails with optional High Rise Seltzer options. Also a carefully curated retail store, you can stock up on Hemp products while you’re there. Located at 1989 Maybank Highway near the Pour House, the James Island Dry Bar is worth a visit!
FIREFLY DISTILLERY
Did you know that one of Charleston’s favorite spots has non-alcoholic options?! The Lowcountry Mule and Baby Bluebird (made with Sallie’s Greatest Blueberry + Lavender) mocktails ensure that everyone can be a part of the happenings at Firefly! And if you fall in love and want to make one at home, Sallie’s Greatest Blueberry + Lavender is available in the shop!
HURIYALI GARDENS & ‘YALI RIVERLAND
“Serving nourishing treats for the mind, body & soul,” Huriyali should be at the top of your list for healthy options around town, and the settings of both locations are worth the trip! Their menu includes a variety of coffees, juices, smoothies, bowls, salads, and sandwiches, all in line with their mission “to provide delicious healthy foods in the most eco-conscious way we know how, all while having a bit of a good time.” They are open from 8am—6pm Monday through Friday, and 9am—3pm on Saturdays and Sundays at both locations. We recommend trying the juices — so good you won’t even miss the alcohol!
SWEATMAN’S GARDEN
This cool spot is such a vibe! Serving housemade sodas, zero proof cocktails, and handmade Ramen Noodles by Weems Ramen, you will find something for everyone at this garden-style lounge in West Ashley. Their goal is to be a spot where everyone feels at home: “We strive to be super inclusive. We have lots of great zero proof options but we also have a full bar! We want to offer a safe space to hang out with all your friends whether they drink, don’t drink, or are doing something in between. In fact, we make some of the most delicious cocktails around.” They also host events like Full Moon Parties and trivia — find your next night out on their Instagram page!
DASHI
If you are looking for a fun spot for Sunday brunch, look no further than Dashi in North Charleston. With Bingo and $3 tacos from 4pm—6pm and their extensive NA Beverage menu, it’s a good time for sure. The NA menu includes cocktails with THC spirit brand Calmezi if that’s your thing. But be warned – they are as serious about their bingo as they are about their tacos! So come ready to play or grab a spot at the bar to watch and learn! And they have a calendar online with other events to try, including Bingo, Beer & Buns on Tuesdays and Trivia on Wednesdays! In addition to their brunch menu, they also have a main menu and a late menu featuring Asian and Latin flavors. You will want to try every. single. dish!
And these are just a few of the places we found on our search – there are plenty more to discover for yourself! And if you need more ideas, follow Booze Free Babes on Facebook and ask for ideas and recommendations – these Charleston babes have all the tea! And the CHS City Guide has their own list, search “Your guide to alcohol-free options in Charleston” to find it!