Tahoe's Dream Boat
On a sunny Tahoe day, the 80-foot-long Safari... Read Article
Lake Tahoe's beauty shines brightest on a perfectly clear day, with friends in tow, enjoying activities like skiing, biking, hiking, wakeboarding, golfing, shopping, boating or lakeside dining. While the region offers an array of breweries, bars, nightlife and casinos to enjoy after your outdoor adventures, it also caters to those who prefer not to partake in alcoholic beverages. Tahoe boasts several spots that not only provide a fantastic atmosphere but also craft non-alcoholic drinks with sophistication beyond the classic Roy Rogers or Shirley Temple. Keep reading to learn about nine exceptional restaurants that serve up a mean mocktail.
Photo: A mocktail to try at home that is going viral is a Dirty Soda. Simply mix traditional soda, your favorite flavorful syrup and whole milk. Yummy! Photo courtesy of Dairy Farmers of America
Alibi Ale Works - Incline Public House
Incline Village
Dive into a delightful array of non-alcoholic options at Alibi Ale Works' Incline Public House, nestled in the picturesque surroundings of Incline Village. From the house-brewed Alibi kombucha to the invigorating Twisted Tree nitro cold brew coffee, house-made lemonade, iced tea and a selection of Jones cane sugar sodas, there's something for every palate. Beyond beverages, this haven for beer enthusiasts offers a unique charm.
Another fun mocktail to try is the Guava Goodness Mocktail made from 3 oz. GTS Enlightened Synergy Guava Goddess, 2 oz. lime sparkling soda, a sprig of rosemary and a lime wheel for garnish. Photo courtesy of GTS Living Foods
Jake's on the Lake
Tahoe City
With stunning views and unparalleled ambiance, Jake's on the Lake stands out as a prime destination for mocktail enthusiasts. Renowned for their innovative mocktail creations, this lakeside gem boasts an executive chef drawing inspiration from the culinary delights of Hawaii and Southern California, emphasizing responsibly sourced ingredients. Some of their mocktail favorites include the Jake's Sparkling Cream Soda with club soda, half and half and choice of vanilla, huckleberry or lavender flavor; the Jake's Cooler with mint, cucumber, lime and pressed finish; and the Lakeside Punch with apple and cranberry juices and ginger beer.
Brooks’ Bar & Deck at Edgewood Tahoe Resort
Stateline
Brooks’ Bar & Deck is a breathtaking lakeview restaurant situated in Edgewood Tahoe. Known for its energetic, golf-inspired charm, Brooks’ Bar & Deck is a modern gastropub that boasts a well-stocked bar with premium liquors. But they also happen to cater to non-drinkers as well. Dive into their Cave Rock Cooler or savor the Dragonfruit Lemonade. The former is a favorite among golfers, a crafty blend of acai berry, blackberry, ginger beer and lemon zest, offering a tangy yet refreshing experience.
Hydrating and delicious, mocktails can bring on the smiles too. Photo courtesy of Mocktail Mom
The Cocktail Corner at the Y
South Lake Tahoe
Situated at the Y, where Highway 50 and Highway 89 intersect in South Lake Tahoe, The Cocktail Corner is overseen by Tahoe AleWorX, which sits just across a charming paver patio with inviting fire pits. While this contemporary lounge lacks a specific mocktail menu, don't be afraid to let your imagination fly. The bartenders are known for their ability to create with the best of them. They are known to have uniquely flavored syrups that has given rise to a mocktail created from freshly squeezed lemonade with a splash of zesty ginger syrup. A favorite, for sure! Give their Cucumber Cooler a try as well. You won't be disappointed.
Sunnyside Restaurant
West Shore
Sunnyside Restaurant and Lodge on the West Shore is the perfect spot to indulge in a thirst-quenching mocktail. As one of the few North Shore restaurants with a dedicated non-alcoholic drink menu, Sunnyside offers an array of mocktails. Whether you choose the First Breeze, Cucumber Soda or the recently added Lavender Lemonade, each concoction promises a refreshing experience. Besides these delightful beverages, the bartenders also whip up virgin versions of classic cocktails like mai tai, mojito and pina colada. And if you're a fan of non-alcoholic beer, Sunnyside has an array of options, including Athletic Brewing Company's Upside Dawn zero-percent alcohol golden ale.
Jimmy's Restaurant at The Landing
South Lake Tahoe
Located steps away from sandy beaches, Jimmy's serves flavorful, locally sourced meals. They also offer mocktails such as the Bijou Breeze, Cherry-Mint Limeade or Snowy Coconut, all pairing beautifully with their freshly made dishes.
This mocktail is good enough to be a part of Truckee heritage. Photo courtesy of Tahoe Forest Health System
Coffeebar
Truckee
Known for its delectable espresso drinks, Coffeebar also serves non-alcoholic options like the Saturday Morning Cartoons and Pretty in Pink, perfect for sipping while taking in the amazing people watching.
Bite Tahoe Restaurant & Bar
Incline Village
For those steering clear of alcohol but still craving flavor-packed indulgence, Bite Tahoe has crafted a treat. Dive into their refreshing Hip to Be Square mocktail, a delightful concoction featuring lemon verbena syrup, crisp cucumber juice, zesty lemon and fizzy club water. Elevate your experience by pairing these delightful sips with mouthwatering delicacies like the Shrimp Crab and Andouille Sauce Gumbo or the succulent Pork Baby Back Ribs bathed in a tantalizing tamarind chipotle honey sauce.
Beach Bums Bar & Grill
Zephyr Cove
If you're planning a day at the beach, Beach Bums Bar & Grill, located within Round Hill Pines Resort in Zephyr Cove, has everything you need for a fun-filled day, from watersports to a convenient snack shack, bar and grill to keep you refreshed and content during your vacation. Beach Bums takes care of non-drinkers with a special mocktail menu. Here, you can relish fruity delights like the Yellow Jacket and Strawberry Oasis, both alcohol-free options.
Be sure to check out all of the fun happening around Lake Tahoe both day and night by visiting our Daytime and Nightlife sections.
About the Author Shanie Matthews
A longtime Lake Tahoe local, Shanie is a freelance writer, Vinyasa Flow yoga teacher and positivity warrior. A true lover of the the gorgeous Tahoe region, she connects with the serenity of the mountains via skiing, biking and backpacking. She also believes in the gift of yoga and its way of allowing one to become his or her true best self, a passion she shares with the world with her online yoga studio.
