If you’re eating out, it’s handy to have some alcohol-free options in mind that are going to enhance your dining experience.
You could ask your waiter what would suit your food choice. I’ve had some blank looks when doing this but also some amazing suggestions, including one venue that invented a lavender-infused mojito-style mocktail, just for me! I tipped well, told all my friends and it became my favourite restaurant.
If you’d rather just go with the flow here are a few ‘standard’ drinks that complement the flavours of classic meals.
Aperitif
A good tonic water with lemon or lime sharpens the appetite and doesn’t look out of place.
Chicken
Chicken will go with pretty much everything, so for a refreshing change try cranberry and raspberry or any fruit juice topped up with lemonade.
Fish
Elderflower pairs well with the delicate flavour of most fish. Choose either a sparkling pressé or mix up a cordial with sparkling water. Robust fish such as salmon or sardines can take something a little more hearty, such as a St Clements mocktail (orange juice and bitter lemon).
Beef
A cloudy apple juice with a twist of lime complements beef dishes perfectly. For a touch of nostalgia, why not try it with dandelion and burdock too.
Lamb
Berry cordials bring out the flavours of this rich meat as long as they’re not too sweet. Cherry colas also work well with lamb.
Pork
A classic pairing with pork is ginger, so a ginger ale or apple and ginger cordial will work well. Blackberry cordial is also delicious with pork.
Pasta
For creamy pasta dishes, soda and lime cuts through to refresh the palate, and for tomato-based dishes a light tonic works well.
Seafood
Something lime-based such as the classic lemonade and lime or a lime pressé tone well with the sweetness of mussels, scallops or prawns.
Dessert
This is easy. Fresh coffee is the perfect partner to a tasty dessert.
Cheese
Tomato works with cheese on a pizza and it works here – so try tomato juice with the cheese course. If you like, add a dash of Worcester sauce.
These substitutions are bound to hit the spot - now there’s no excuse not to stay sober over dinner! And you might even discover your new favourite drink-and-food combination while you’re at it. What’s not to love?
