Fall is my favorite time of year — that magical stretch between summer and winter that brings comfort, nostalgia and just a touch of indulgence. From cooler temperatures and the leaves changing colors to the festivities, pumpkin patches and everything in between, fall is a season that my whole family looks forward to. But what we anticipate most are the flavors that define fall: pumpkin spice, apple cider, caramel, cinnamon, vanilla — you name it.
Lately, I’ve found a new way to savor these seasonal tastes without straying from our health-conscious lifestyle: mocktails. Short for mock cocktails, mocktails are a rising trend for those seeking a more mindful, balanced way to socialize and celebrate. As the demand for healthier drink options grows, zero-proof creations have become a staple on many restaurant menus. Inspired by this trend, I’ve rounded up my top five spots for a delicious mocktail in OKC (tip: always ask about their seasonal menus), along with two simple, fall-inspired recipes you can whip up at home.
Sailor and the Dock
When it comes to mocktails in Oklahoma City, Sailor and the Dock in the West Village District is at the top of the list. The Dock Bar, located in the center of the large, warehouse-style space, is the focal point and heart of the market collective.
More than just a bar, it’s an incubator for local businesses, an events venue and a community space welcoming all creatives. The bar itself is a formerly abandoned sailboat from Lake Hefner, a symbol of sustainability that runs throughout the space.
The menu is thoughtfully designed with healthy, fresh ingredients in partnership with small-batch farms. Alongside wellness drinks, you’ll find seasonal mocktails. If you love fall flavors, the High Seas Jewel is a must. Made with cranberry, pomegranate, ginger and cinnamon, this drink also helps regulate blood sugar and improve metabolism. A drink that tastes delicious and is good for you? Sign me up!
For the frequent sippers, the Dock Bar offers a Cheers Club. For $11.11 a month, you get one mocktail, a wellness shot and 20% off drinks the rest of your drinks.
Barseo
A newcomer to the Paseo Arts District, Barseo fits right in with its cozy, inviting atmosphere and focus on approachable food and cocktails made with quality ingredients.
Alongside their signature and seasonal cocktails, you’ll find a variety of interesting mocktails that prove zero-proof doesn’t have to be boring. A delightful mix of flavors, the Peach Dream is my go-to. Made with peach tea, orange juice, honey and vanilla, this mocktail is refreshing with a warm and comforting touch. It’s so good that we make it at home! Another crowd-favorite is the Strawberry Mule made with housemade strawberry hibiscus syrup, lime juice and ginger beer. If you’re feeling adventurous, ask the bartender and they’ll be happy to whip you up a custom mocktail.
Mary Eddy’s Italian Grill
Located in the Fordson Hotel in Oklahoma City’s West Village District, Mary Eddy’s has been a destination restaurant for locals and travelers alike since 2016. With the ongoing evolution of the property, the restaurant decided to re-imagine the concept to an Italian-style grill during the winter of 2024. Much of the charming décor did not change, but the flavors were boldly elevated in the best way.
Along with a sophisticated menu of Italian classics and signature cocktails, Mary Eddy’s also embraced and elevated the growing trend of creative zero-proof, mocktail options. Try an easy drinker with a perfect blend of flavors like the Hibiscus Fizz with hibiscus, honey, lemon, orange and Topo Chico. Or go for something a little more indulgent like the Cloud 9, made with cold brew, non-dairy cream, lavender, marshmallow and chocolate.
Riserva Bar + Tapas
Nestled inside the bustling Chisholm Creek development in northwest Oklahoma City, Riserva Bar + Tapas is a Mediterranean-inspired eatery that prides itself on sourcing the finest ingredients for both its kitchen and bar program. The menu is full of big, vibrant flavors — and so are the cocktails and mocktails to complement the unique dishes. The concoction to quickly catch my eye was the Silk Road, and I wasn’t disappointed. The combination of lavender, cinnamon, pistachio, nutmeg, soda and cream is a match made in heaven. Another drink worth noting is the Big Fat Greek Mocktail made with abstinence cape spice, lemon, house hibiscus tea syrup and hibiscus foam.
The Hamilton Supperette & Lounge
Located in The Shoppes at Northpark Mall, The Hamilton Supperette & Lounge is a speakeasy-style supper club known for its elegant comfort food, great wine selection and classic cocktails. It should come as no surprise that they also have equally great zero-proof choices. The stand-out mocktail here is the Nespresso Mocktini. Made with freshly pulled Nespresso, demerara (unrefined sugar with a rich caramel-like flavor), cherry vanilla bitters, and cream, this riff on an alcohol-free espresso martini is every coffee lover’s dream. On your way out, don’t forget to snap a memorable picture in their cute photo booth!
Mocktail Recipes to make at home:
Orchard Spritz
- 2 oz apple cider
- 1 oz Pear juice
- 0.75 oz cinnamon syrup*
- 0.25 oz lemon
- fill with NA Prosecco or sparkling water
Instructions: Fill a tall glass with ice. Add the apple cider, pear juice, cinnamon syrup and lemon and give it a quick stir. Top with sparkling water and garnish with an apple slice and cinnamon stick.
Winterberry
- 3-4 blackberries + 1 sprig of rosemary
- 1.25 oz pomegranate juice
- 1.25 oz cranberry juice
- 0.75 oz cinnamon syrup*
- 0.25 oz lime
- top with ginger ale
Instructions: Muddle 3-4 blackberries and one sprig of fresh rosemary in a mixing tin or glass. Add the pomegranate juice, cranberry juice, cinnamon syrup and lime and then shake (or stir) well. Strain the drink with a fine mesh strainer into a medium-sized glass over ice. Fill with Ginger Ale (I like the Ollipop brand) and garnish with a sprig of rosemary.
*Cinnamon Syrup Recipe: Add 1 cup of sugar, 1 cup of water and 4-5 cinnamon sticks to a saucepan and bring to a boil. Reduce to a simmer for about 5-10 minutes and then remove from the heat. Let it cool before straining the syrup into a mason jar. Keep it refrigerated and it should last about 2 months. This is also great to use in coffee!
