In which I make my way around the City searching for sophisticated yet sober cocktails.

Cocktails, mocktails and local eats, like popcorn, nuts and salami meats.



Last week marked my return to a scene I had been taking a break from for the first half of 2009. A group of my friends get together on a regular basis, to try out cocktail bars all over the City. Initially I reigned in my attendance on account of the effects of the recession, but after cutting back on alcohol too, I wasn't sure if there would be any reason to ever return to these highly spirited gatherings. Eventually I missed the social aspect too much and I wanted back in. Plus, these days I am intrigued - just what is a mixologist who doesn't have alcohol to fall back on, capable of creating?

Clock Bar: Westin St. Francis, 335 Powell St, San Francisco, CA 94102, (415) 397 9222 [Website]
Visit: July 2009
Menu: No non-alcholic cocktails listed. [menu here]
Bartender's reaction: The first bartender I spoke to wasn't wildly enthusiastic at the notion of creating a non-alcholic cocktail. "It's just going to be juice", she remarked. After being pushed a little further by my requests for some something more imaginative she suggested making a dry version of their "Scottish Mule" - fresh lime, cucumber and ginger beer without the gin. The resulting drink, made by her male colleague, was great; refreshing, perfectly balanced and with very subtle nuances of cucumber. Bartender #2 was much more game for being experimental and he made me a second drink with lime and muddled rosemary. The result wasn't as successful, but I appreciated the attempt. Full marks for trying.
Price: Mocktails: $5 each.



Previously on Mocktails of the City: The Alembic.

© 2009 Sam Breach