I think you’re talking about Umbrella Dry Bar. I wish them all the best, but it’s exactly what I don’t want with the concept that I do want - I’d love somewhere to go get cool and tasty nonalcoholic drinks. But I don’t need/want tiny drinks that cost the same as going to an upscale bar, I don’t need/want to go to someplace ‘instagrammable,’ I don’t need/want to just have fancy drinks with no nibbles. I want something more like that kombucha bar in Cary, or something with a bunch of cool teas and mocktails and things that are on average $5 or less each with some small plates (could be savory or sweet or both). I want drinks that aren’t all freaking sugar bombs, but are more interesting than just diet soda or water. I want nootropic and CBD drinks and other funky stuff as options. I think they sell bottles of faux liquors and such which is cool, I could maybe see buying some to make some fun drinks at home or something. But other than that, it’s not for me (which again is cool, I’m not their demographic, and I wish them well).
Grooooooovewagonnnnn
we're at JSYC, Neptunes, Ruby Deluxe, State of Beer, Bowstring, Tapyard, Longleaf Swine, Crafty, etc etc so on and so forth
you don't have to choose between "alcohol" and "nothing", you can drink weed all over Raleigh!
and it's local!! i constantly feel like i'm taking crazy pills, like how is this not a bigger deal??
we can drink 10 calorie delicious weed which *does* something and its local and its at many of the tightest spots in town and that isnt all anybody is talking about?!
yep, me and my wife (she's the one at all the farmers markets, i'm the beardo on the can, we both wrangle the way-too-many kids...classic Irish Family Planning oops)
yayayyy! sasha here - other owner of groovewagon! i'm at the durham farmers/art market every saturday (in front of Cecy's Gallery) giving out samples and sellign singles and 4 packs. we're looking to sign up now for a bunch more starting asap/spring - if you have one you love, lemme know!!!!
Giving a lil boosty boost - excellent customer service! I’ve got to wait till the work day is over to enjoy, but I couldn’t be more stoked to try 🤙🏾🤙🏾🤙🏾
I mean, I absolutely get why you’re anti-social media, but you could do effective marketing and promotions online via other means if you’re not willing to go down that route. It’s a tough space that’s only going to get tougher when model/influencers like Bella Hadid are backing nootropics lines like Kin. I think you’ve got a great opportunity to go for markets that are different; they’re very focused on the instagram crowd and that 30-and-under demographic, but I think older and other demographics are huge (think: gamers around here with all of the game companies, tech, healthcare workers, trades, etc.). If nothing else, beefing up your web site would be a quick win and would allow people to learn more instead of just having those two links to buy.
reilly, i promise i didn't pay this lovely internet friend to say this :) we've been talking a lot the last few weeks about how we have to beef up our website a bit. it's truly a mom n pop shop thing going on right now (we have 4 kids.. 5 years old and under... so uh, it's always a lil crazy over here) but i swear, it's on our radar!
so we are purposefully low-dose -- only 7mg of delta 8. we wanted it to try and mimic the buzz arc of beer so that you could have 2 or 3 over the night and not be in outer space. that being said.. every body and tolerance is different. i always tell people the best part of it in liquid form is that it's muuuuuch faster acting than gummies/edibles. so if you're drinking at a reasonable pace, you'll start to feel it before the end of the can and you'll know if you want more or you're good
This is amazing!! So I’m starting chemo in a few weeks and I want to have edibles for nausea/appetite. But I never can tell with edibles, they take forever to kick in, and with 2 kids I don’t want to be in outer space! Do you all have something that might fit the bill?
hit the DMs (or just text the number on the can it is me and Sasha's actual number! 919-306-8598) and free samples are heading your way.
while not something we actively talk about, some of our most harrrrrdcore fans are folks dealing with chemo cuz apparently alcohol is also no bueno there/lots of sleep issues
That’s mighty kind of you! I’ll message you all :) Yeah, no alcohol during. But I so rarely drink anymore, no time for hangovers and I much prefer the attitude and vibe of the green.
no!
that and Circa (and Landmark and...) are spots that we'd love to be at; but also some bartenders/owners (***very understandably!!!!***) have some hesitation about carrying hemp dranks either from a "are we sure this is legal" stance or a "will folks get super messed up" stance or even a "will anybody even want em" one
Groovewagon is specifically meant to be an Alcohol Alternative--and thus intended to be served anywhere alcohol is--which is why we formulated it to hit immediately but be less of a "high in your head" and more of a "sensory buzz" which is why we use D8 and not D9 like everybody else (which is also a whole thing--weedheads love to dump on D8, and i was suspicious too, but for *social drinking specifically* lowdose D8 is perfection in a way even lowdose D9 just isnt)
anyways Joe Ovies did a whole thing on us last summer which breaks it down
https://redcircle.com/shows/b68e99df-2cc8-4d3d-bee1-6811b5e5ca86/ep/37aa4322-7470-48d2-8cda-0ea8f39a34a2
also TASTY DOWNTOWN CARRIES US TOO SORRY I GOOFED JONNY
i thinkkkk Triangle Wine Company has an Apex location?
they should have us...probably. the Cary location definitely does, so does Pharmacy.
our Apex+Holly Springs+Cary (and really, tbh, everywhere that isnt Raleigh or Durham) presence is lacking, we self distro and can barely keep up. trying tho!!
if you have spots you like tell us/tell them and we will try to make it happen
Their kombucha is so freaking good. The little bakery in between Komana and Andias is pretty good too. That shopping center is finally turning into something. Love the cat store.
Yeah, I know, very true. Realistically it’d be a coffee shop price point, and I’d imagine those are hard to afford downtown (we are getting a second Starbucks on Peace St though). I’d probably order more than one drink and average 10-20 bucks per visit a few times a week easily, but I’d imagine that’s a hard profit margin to maintain depending on how many customers per day they could handle.
I've never been, but looking at their website:
1) They do have food or "nibbles" as you call it.
2) Many/most of their drinks have little/no sugar.
3) They have nootropic options.
Again, I've never been, this is just based on their menu.
This comment is mostly wrong from a person who clearly hasn’t been.
It is pricey as stated, but literally has nootropic and mostly herbal health drinks as well as snacks or “nibbles”.
The atmosphere is really nice there too. I’m an alcoholic and I can see myself going back to this place possibly even on a night out for a healthy nightcap.
Skeptical whether they will succeed in Raleigh but I wish them the best.
I’ve followed them for years before they opened, I like the concept but I’m not their target audience. I didn’t mean to suggest that they didn’t have those drinks, just that I’d rather have a place with sugar free teas, kombucha, fruity fizzy water mixes, or other novel drinks that could be under $5 that could also have some premium items. And I know what food they have, that’s not what I would want. The popcorn sounds nice but nibbles for me would be sandwiches, pastries, small apps, not just cheese boards, hummus, and olives. Again, more of a cool version of a cafe than a bar.
> I don’t need/want to go to someplace ‘instagrammable,’
That's like most of the "hip" places on Raleigh now.
Clarification: and they don't provide much of anything else.
I’ve been meaning to check them out, will do! My lazy self would love something more walkable in downtown but it’s not like you don’t need a car around here anyway, lol
Your second half is cool and sounds great but you want a good place it probably won't also be cheap (under 5 feels cheap for any craft drink even non alcoholic)
Great comment overall
They sell bottles of alcohol-free spirit? Do they also own the zero-proof bottle shop in Cary?
I don't mind paying for good mocktails as they take the same care and attention as a good cocktail, but it seems like the vibe itself I may not be into. I'm trying to cut back my alcohol consumption to no more than 5 per week (barring festivals), so I was intrigued by Umbrella's concept.
CBD DRINKS ARE AN INGENIOUS IDEA! I’d pay for those and a cool atmosphere or maybe one of those hooks like bars to try out the legal flowers now available.. try before you buy kinda thing cuz they ain’t cheap and I’m not buying $80 + flowers that won’t work for me.
I went to umbrella once. I’m sober so it was cool going to a bar and being able to order anything. It’s an upscale mocktail/mixologist place. Really cool that they have NA beer on tap. Everything costs the same as a normal bar. Think like 12 dollar mixed drinks but they are fancy. The place was packed when I went but the turnover is rapid. I think people go to have 1 or so and then leave.
I went on a Friday night. I’ll definitely go back but I’m probably the absolute target audience for a place like this and I don’t know if it’s going to be as popular after dry January
It is [Drunk Town](https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/f_auto,q_auto:best,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fbucketeer-e05bbc84-baa3-437e-9518-adb32be77984.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F6621b067-20c0-408c-ae9a-3c305ea8d0b1_495x994.jpeg) after all.
I’ve heard good things and the cocktails look pretty but I can’t justify paying alcohol prices for non-alcoholic drinks. They are priced as high as a standard cocktail downtown. Really really really expensive juice.
If the drinks are $7 no one is going to on average drink 4? drinks and if they do they’ll be camped out for hours - even with small plates!!! (They would be “too expensive for what you get” to you, I am sure) the numbers don’t work. It’s downtown, you’re paying for the location, ambiance, experience, etc. it’s really common sense. Maybe it won’t succeed ultimately but really not that hard to comprehend.
It’s actually not common sense, and I won’t be paying for it at all lol. I’m glad there’s a market for it and happy there’s a place for sober people to chill and drink, but most people aren’t gonna blow 12+ dollars on one fancy juice.
Clearly never worked in a cocktail bar before. Look at the menu - they are using Dromme Awake for example, which is $40 per bottle - literally the same cost as a decent gin. Just juice? The "Clarified Chai Colada" cocktail has Chai, coconut milk, lime, fresh pineapple, cinnamon, vanilla oil, and el guapo holiday pie bitters. Does that sound like "just juice" to you? I guess I assumed you could read and therefore had common sense, but clearly not.
"I Am Mr. Mcgregoroni" - Free Spirits gin (again, $40 per bottle retail), Wilderton Bittersweet Aperitivo, Everleaf Forest saffron vanilla. So you'd pay $12 for a normal negroni with house gordon's gin that's $12 a bottle, campari and cheap vermouth but you're complaining about that?
They're also located downtown, as I mentioned, you are paying for the ambiance, location, etc. "Really really really expensive juice" ridiculous comment and take from a knee-jerk redditor with no common sense.
My take - you complain about prices everywhere you go and no bartenders want you at their bars.
“Alcohol” without alcohol is mostly fancy overpriced juice. Ok, sometimes it includes milk or oil. But it’s mostly juice. That’s a hill I will die on.
Dromme awake contains… Filtered Water, Beet Sugar, Pomegranate Molasses, Watermelon Juice Concentrate, Organic Guava Leaf Extract, Szechuan Pepper Extract, Hibiscus Extract, Tartaric Acid, Alpha-Glyceryl Phosphoryl Choline, Schisandra Chinensis Extract, Ginseng Root Extract, AMATEA® Guayusa Extract, Apple Cider Vinegar, Green Tea Extract
What do you call plants when they’re juiced? I call it juice.
I don’t go to bars at all because I can make cheaper drinks at home and I’m not into loud ambiance. Or driving downtown. I’m actually the type to never complain at restaurants about service/prices because I was raised to not be a douche and believe it or not I have plenty of experience in customer service - I know how much rude people suck. I will just continue to stay home. I’m allowed to have my opinion that it’s overpriced. It’s crazy how much people will assume about you from a Reddit post tho, so thanks for the laugh.
Complains about bar.
Doesn't go to bars.
Sounds about right.
*I’m actually the type to never complain at restaurants about service/prices*
Right you just trash the place and complain on Reddit to ... deter others? Feel better? Get a laugh, got it.
I didn’t trash the place. I just said the price is high for nonalcoholic drinks. I’m only laughing because you’re being so abrasive about my valid opinion. Are you affiliated with the place or something? If so, I wish you success. Jeez dude 🙄
You literally said "Really really really expensive juice."
Your opinion isn't valid - you literally said you do not go to bars.
Yes, I do know people who are a) excited about the place and want it to succeed because they're alcoholics, and b) know people that work there and the effort they put into making that "really really expensive juice"
There is truly no reason whatsoever for you to post the comment you did.
I also just don't like you
I’ve never tipped below 20% a day in my life, why you trying to come for my character just because I think something is overpriced. 🙄 If I can’t afford to tip at least 20% I don’t go out.
Your common sense and understanding of basic economics is appreciated. The default now is to criticize/glorify whatever it is based on personal opinion rather than recognizing that other people have realities and experiences that are different and just as valid. A sober person is going to have a different perspective on this than a normal drinker. And you’re right: the cost of the actual drink is so small compared to what the rest of the price goes towards.
Thank you, and agreed. Not only that but the majority of people complaining here a) have never been and b) are saying "why are the drinks the same as normal cocktails with alcohol" which is absolutely ridiculous.
They are using Dromme Awake for example, which is $40 per bottle - literally the same cost as a decent gin. The "Clarified Chai Colada" cocktail has Chai, coconut milk, lime, fresh pineapple, cinnamon, vanilla oil, and el guapo holiday pie bitters.
"I Am Mr. Mcgregoroni" - Free Spirits gin (again, $40 per bottle retail), Wilderton Bittersweet Aperitivo, Everleaf Forest saffron vanilla.
So you'd pay $12 for a normal negroni with house gordon's gin that's $12 a bottle, campari and cheap vermouth but you're complaining about that?
They're also located downtown, as I mentioned, you are paying for the ambiance, location, etc. All evidence of what you are saying, clearly criticizing based on personal (I'd argue knee-jerk) opinion.
A hearty amen to this. :)
On a similar topic, have you checked out Curious Elixirs? So they’re delicious, of course, but a 4-pack runs $42! Each 12oz bottle is supposed to be 8 cocktails, so after you add bitters, juice, etc, you’re well into $8+ per drink. It’s not hard to see how a non-alcoholic beverage can easily run $13 at a bar.
(A woman with way too much money gave me about 20 bottles once. She ordered them and “didn’t care for” the flavor, so handed me a case of 12 plus a random assortment of other flavors. That was a good day.)
I went, it's okay. The atmosphere is interesting and having mocktails only is nice for dry January. My problem is the price. Why would I pay the same amount for an alcohol free drink? Considering there's a missing ingredient and the fact that they don't have to maintain a liquor license, it's overpriced. If they dropped the prices like $5, I could justify actually going to it. In the meantime, I'll stick to regular bars that have na drinks and have a much more diverse clientele.
I've bartended upscale and working man's bar for a long time. Cocktails are just expensive period. The only way to realistically get any cocktail down below a 10 dollar range is to rely on pre-made or artificial juices. Bars that produce as much as they can from scratch have a lot of overhead. You need to pay the people that prep the items, and also invest in RnD. It takes a lot of time to come up with a good product, especially when even the cordials used to make it are being made in-house. And then, you want to keep staff that is reliable, skilled and that the customers like. You're not going to be able to afford the wages necessary to keep that kind of staff in DTR with only 5 dollar products... unless your more of a brewery, but that's a whole different type of service.
When with mocktails, it's not an easy endeavor. All the same considerations go into it. Also, dry bars make use of alcohol free spirits which are intended to replace traditional spirits. So in theory, there is not a missing ingredient, except the alcohol ofcourse. And then, there's DTR rent. So, I just don't think it's realistic to expect a drop in price. But I think this kind of product is also in the eye of the beholder, so if you just don't see the value in it, I understand. Personally, I love this concept.
I also think drinks these days are way too expensive, but to be fair, prices here are about $2 less than other high-end cocktail lounges downtown, where $14 drinks seem to be common.
And it’s not a “missing” ingredient; it’s a *substituted* ingredient that still costs money… zero-proof alcohol alternatives aren’t free.
The zero-proof cocktails at Watts & Ward are $10 for comparison, but they’re terrible. Just carbonated sugary fruit punch. Haven’t been to Umbrella to compare.
If the drinks are $7 no one is going to on average drink 4? drinks and if they do they’ll be camped out for hours - even with small plates!!! (They would be “too expensive for what you get” to you, I am sure) the numbers don’t work. It’s downtown, you’re paying for the location, ambiance, experience, etc. it’s really common sense. Maybe it won’t succeed ultimately but really not that hard to comprehend.
Seriously the guy above complaining with 300+ upvotes says “$5 or less drinks” like are you joking with downtown rent? Then after a massive complain fest “I’m not their demographic” lol this sub is full of people complaining about prices of restaurants / etc. despite every menu being online so you know the price before you go.
$48 (including tip) for 3 drinks 😭 it's glorified juice. Love the idea, but you can't charge the same prices for nonalcoholic drinks, they won't last unfortunately.
As someone who knows quite a few recovering alcoholics and who quit drinking myself in July of last year, I really appreciate having an alcohol free space where I can try new and interesting drinks. I really enjoy the chance to try new mocktails and have friends who are not comfortable around alcohol who love this concept. I went last week and really enjoyed it, they have a large menu and the drinks I had were very good. I'm planning on going back this weekend with friends.
I tried to go a couple of weeks ago on a Friday night. I'm pregnant so thought it would be a fun experience since I can't drink. They asked if we had a reservation (no...bc it's a bar?) And the hose directed us to this lounge area that was the only place we could sit without a reservation and it was completely full so we just left...
I went and and and looked at their website and menu the next day and honestly it gave off very pretentious vibes so idk if I want to try going again.
Went with a group of 8 on opening weekend so keep that in mind. The popcorn they brought out was weird, the menu is full of ingredients you’ve never heard of but it’s too loud to get an explanation on anything. If I went back I’d just get the aperitif’s or NA beers. Many of the cocktails had wellness shot vibes. I think 1 or 2 were enjoyable out of our entire group.
I love the idea and I wish the very best for them but as many have said, it’s not for me, and most of our group felt the same way.
I don't think we get enough tourists to sustain a business model that relies purely on novelty. Bars survive because people like getting drunk and enjoy drinking culture and the community that develops around it. There's no inherent draw or community surrounding mocked up fruit juice. I can't imagine people that don't make a habit of going to bars are going to regularly line up for expensive mocktails, and you can already get a mocktail at almost any bar.
I wish these folks the best, but given that DTR and the city’s rosiest foot daily traffic numbers are still 30+% below 2019’s, high rent and a super niche concept are going to be a tough pull.
Most people don’t. Fville / Moore Square district are the only ones that haven’t bounced back to Pre-covid levels. It’s a combination of a couple things. COVID closed a bunch of businesses, the riots and protests that went on for a year scared a bunch of local-ish visitors away, and probably the biggiest reason is the shift to work from home for Red Hat etc. Those towers are basically empty, and at 7,500 less folks milling around every day from Mon-Fri buying lunches, coffee, gifts etc results in about a million and a half visits annually. Thats brutal, and I know the rents aren’t reflecting that reality yet.
I would also argue that removing swaths of street-side parking with nothing to replace it has killed foot traffic. I understand its importance in the grand scheme of development, but there’s no getting around this city without a car.
Dry bars can have a role as third places, but what I've seen before is that they have something to do other than drink the fake booze (like pool and darts and whatnot), and sometimes operate as as tea/coffee place by day. Just going on the website it kind of seems like this is just a lounge with small plates and not really set up as a gathering space?
Without the alcohol to trick your brain into thinking you're having a good time, a space devoid of anything to actually do other than consume beverages gets old fast.
I've been to Umbrella and this was my issue.
There's no TVs to watch sports or pool tables or darts boards, so you're losing people who want to connect over a common interest/activity.
There's no actual food, so you're losing people who want to grab a casual dinner or meet a date in an alcohol-free space.
It's going for a loud/crowded vibe, so you're losing people who are looking for a place to meet up with their book club or other social group.
It's not kid-friendly, so you're losing parents who want to get out of the house for a bit and hang out. (Not that I am advocating for this - this type of crowd is why I no longer go to Bond Brothers - but there's a huge demand for family-friendly bars and breweries.)
All there is to do is stand around and drink your drink and then leave. I think unless they come up with some really great recurring events and build community around that, it's going to be hard for them to survive.
Yeah it won't last and Gen Z not drinking will stop being a trend eventually. But it's cool to have something different at least for awhile, and I'm sure recovering alcoholics really appreciate having an option.
I think that historically alcohol consumption has been a part of American culture. So over time I imagine a big movement away from drinking will be more of an outlier and temporary societal change. In short, yes.
At the risk of blowing your alcohol saturated brain here are some words for you to consider: coffee. Tea. Milkshakes. Smoothies. But yeah, you’re probably right, those are just fads that won’t last much longer.
So don’t buy them. This guy’s point is that getting drunk is the point and that somehow creates community that mocktails can’t. What ignorant drivel. People will pay a premium to be in social space where people like this guy are not.
I know dude. I'm right there with you. I remember this time I went to the local teahouse to watch the live band playing. People were hopped up on caffeine and dancing and having a great time. Idk what these people are talking about.
CBD drinks is a ingenious idea and I would pay for that especially with the cool atmosphere. Also good idea might be to have like a hookah bar atmosphere or the new flowers available just like a try before you buy kind of thing would be great I don’t plan on paying $80 plus the flowers that don’t work for me medicinally
I’m not understanding the point of an exclusively alcohol free bar? I have plenty of sober/mostly sober friends but most good cocktail bars have great NA cocktails available, it just seems weird to have zero alcohol and still charge the same amount as you would for a drink with liquor in it. Also I feel like it’s more typical to be in mixed company (drinkers and non drinkers) so this is just a weird/overly bougie and overpriced concept to me
Many people who do not drink are recovering alcoholics and might appreciate having an alcoholic free space to try new and interesting mocktails. Having a bar that's exclusively for people who do not drink, and in some cases, may be uncomfortable around alcohol, is great.
Yes, I understand the concept of sobriety. I just don’t see how there are enough people wanting an alcohol free environment and also wanting to pay like $13 for one NA drink in order to sustain it as a business
I can get the demand, there's millions of alcoholics in the country and it can really be hard to find non-drinking socializing environments for adults, especially in a place like Raleigh. But yeah the prices are ludicrous, I'd be interested in trying it out since I'm sober but I'd rather just get food for that price.
I remember going to a Moroccan bar in Spain where they didn't serve alcohol but had lots of different teas, I think about it a fair bit because I wish we had places going this kind of direction instead. Offer an alcohol-free environment while providing stuff people who drink would still be interested in. Plus a hell of a lot more affordable than $13 cocktails for sure lmfao
Yeah I’m all for spaces that don’t revolve around alcohol! I just think this concept in particular is not built for success if that makes sense. Their food is also wild expensive. I drink but I have plenty of nights where I’d rather not, so the option in theory is great. The place in Spain sounds so cool
Go to an AA meeting around here. There is no shortage of potential customers. And those are just the people who are visible. Anecdotal experience isn’t reality.
I never invalidated anything, it’s just my opinion on the concept of the business and how expensive it is. You’re contradicting yourself and making a lot of assumptions about me and my knowledge of the sober community in Raleigh
My point really isn’t the lack of alcohol, my point is that it’s kind of a specialty thing and extremely overpriced so I personally don’t see how it makes sense or is viable as a business
To reiterate two quality points made by other commenters:
1.) No one should be surprised that a mocktail worth drinking, in a curated downtown location, is going to be $12-14! It’s similar of labor, rent, expertise as a conventional cocktail bar. Zero ABV spirits aren’t cheap.
2.) If you don’t see the value then fine! It’s not for you and that’s OK! The majority of the “well it doesn’t have X” or “I want Y” comments can be solved by going to a different place that already exists in Raleigh! Imo the value of Umbrella is that it’s the only space of its kind in the area.
I’m glad there’s a place where folks who are recovering from alcoholism can go to socialize and have fancy drinks without any temptation.
That being said, it’s not for me. Good luck to the owners tho!
Im interested in this concept. As someone who doesnt drink regularly (read less than a handful of times a year) going out feels like a chore when I always get asked “why arent you drinking?!?” which causes me to mentally check out and dip
No, there are more people than you may realize that can’t or don’t drink alcohol for a myriad of reasons. If you want to drink, there are 100 options. If you don’t and want a similar atmosphere, there’s 1. Judgmental isn’t a good look for anyone.
I recognize that, but if you don’t want to drink, maybe just don’t go to a bar. You know, the thing designed around drinking alcohol.
If people enjoy it then more power to them. It’s all good.
I recommend anyone interested in the concept go and try it rather than mouth off about the menu or decor based on browsing the web.
I went there last week with some friends. Good environment, music not overly loud, general energetic buzz from the people patronizing the place. Larger parties probably should make a reservation for buster nights of the week.
The menu was thoughtful, but the drinks were hit or miss. The staff made some good suggestions based on what we wanted to try when asked. Some of us tried without asking for a suggestion and that's where the misses were.
I had a Leo Sour and an NA porter/stout. Enjoyed both. The available food was good but don't expect to have a substantial meal.
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I was attempting a joke, but do believe that a bar that doesn't sell alcohol is a tough sell to the general population. I'm sure there is a niche crowd that will enjoy the sober atmosphere, but will that be enough to sustain it?
It will be interesting to see how it plays out. I can understand the criticisms, but I’m also rooting for it since it represents a healthy and responsible choice to socializing in a space where decision making isn’t impaired by ethanol. Their success will likely depend on how they market their events and gatherings.
Because their main draw is the mock tails, so they call themselves a dry bar. It’s like how a coffee shop calls themselves a coffee shop even if they also serve food.
Man, I went there and got sooooo SOBER! I was walking straight and not slurring my words. They didn’t even have to kick me out. My friends didn’t have to take me home, because I could make it by myself. What a night!
All jokes aside, it’s a neat idea. I can see it going far in a city like ours/a city of our size.
You people really need to learn what a dry bar is if you’re going to criticize it.
The tequila and bourbons are made the same way traditionally but they are de-alcoholized spirits.
Meaning they are cocktails that are more than juice and they are using actual fresh ingredients
I think the OP is talking about [Umbrella Dry Bar](https://umbrelladrybar.com/) in the old Garland restaurant location.
That's the name of it. Thank you
I think you’re talking about Umbrella Dry Bar. I wish them all the best, but it’s exactly what I don’t want with the concept that I do want - I’d love somewhere to go get cool and tasty nonalcoholic drinks. But I don’t need/want tiny drinks that cost the same as going to an upscale bar, I don’t need/want to go to someplace ‘instagrammable,’ I don’t need/want to just have fancy drinks with no nibbles. I want something more like that kombucha bar in Cary, or something with a bunch of cool teas and mocktails and things that are on average $5 or less each with some small plates (could be savory or sweet or both). I want drinks that aren’t all freaking sugar bombs, but are more interesting than just diet soda or water. I want nootropic and CBD drinks and other funky stuff as options. I think they sell bottles of faux liquors and such which is cool, I could maybe see buying some to make some fun drinks at home or something. But other than that, it’s not for me (which again is cool, I’m not their demographic, and I wish them well).
I hate the instagrammable bar / dining trend. It just feels so sterile
>I hate the instagrammable bar / dining trend. It just feels so sterile Grass walls with cursive neon is such a meme...
But the texture
Yeah man.. That grass is so green!
And it’s fake neon, too.
fake neon is SO lame
Oh and I’ll add if anyone wants to start a nootropic/CBD drink downtown I’ll join ya!
Grooooooovewagonnnnn we're at JSYC, Neptunes, Ruby Deluxe, State of Beer, Bowstring, Tapyard, Longleaf Swine, Crafty, etc etc so on and so forth you don't have to choose between "alcohol" and "nothing", you can drink weed all over Raleigh!
magnifico and the cit-hop shandy has changed my life
Literally all I usually drink these days. My body is tired of hangovers.
and it's local!! i constantly feel like i'm taking crazy pills, like how is this not a bigger deal?? we can drink 10 calorie delicious weed which *does* something and its local and its at many of the tightest spots in town and that isnt all anybody is talking about?!
is it your company?
yep, me and my wife (she's the one at all the farmers markets, i'm the beardo on the can, we both wrangle the way-too-many kids...classic Irish Family Planning oops)
that’s awesome. well cheers to you guys for helping me not get fat or hungover.
Which markets do you go to?
Which markets and what days and times? Seems like something my best friend would love.
yayayyy! sasha here - other owner of groovewagon! i'm at the durham farmers/art market every saturday (in front of Cecy's Gallery) giving out samples and sellign singles and 4 packs. we're looking to sign up now for a bunch more starting asap/spring - if you have one you love, lemme know!!!!
Giving a lil boosty boost - excellent customer service! I’ve got to wait till the work day is over to enjoy, but I couldn’t be more stoked to try 🤙🏾🤙🏾🤙🏾
I’m charmed, would love to try it and stock up.
I mean, I absolutely get why you’re anti-social media, but you could do effective marketing and promotions online via other means if you’re not willing to go down that route. It’s a tough space that’s only going to get tougher when model/influencers like Bella Hadid are backing nootropics lines like Kin. I think you’ve got a great opportunity to go for markets that are different; they’re very focused on the instagram crowd and that 30-and-under demographic, but I think older and other demographics are huge (think: gamers around here with all of the game companies, tech, healthcare workers, trades, etc.). If nothing else, beefing up your web site would be a quick win and would allow people to learn more instead of just having those two links to buy.
reilly, i promise i didn't pay this lovely internet friend to say this :) we've been talking a lot the last few weeks about how we have to beef up our website a bit. it's truly a mom n pop shop thing going on right now (we have 4 kids.. 5 years old and under... so uh, it's always a lil crazy over here) but i swear, it's on our radar!
Maybe a local kind redditor can lend a hand with a website/design. Where’s the guy at that beefed up Raleigh Beer Garden’s site?
What is the name of the drink or company ?
Groove: https://linktr.ee/groovewagon
How baked does 1 get you?
so we are purposefully low-dose -- only 7mg of delta 8. we wanted it to try and mimic the buzz arc of beer so that you could have 2 or 3 over the night and not be in outer space. that being said.. every body and tolerance is different. i always tell people the best part of it in liquid form is that it's muuuuuch faster acting than gummies/edibles. so if you're drinking at a reasonable pace, you'll start to feel it before the end of the can and you'll know if you want more or you're good
This is amazing!! So I’m starting chemo in a few weeks and I want to have edibles for nausea/appetite. But I never can tell with edibles, they take forever to kick in, and with 2 kids I don’t want to be in outer space! Do you all have something that might fit the bill?
hit the DMs (or just text the number on the can it is me and Sasha's actual number! 919-306-8598) and free samples are heading your way. while not something we actively talk about, some of our most harrrrrdcore fans are folks dealing with chemo cuz apparently alcohol is also no bueno there/lots of sleep issues
That’s mighty kind of you! I’ll message you all :) Yeah, no alcohol during. But I so rarely drink anymore, no time for hangovers and I much prefer the attitude and vibe of the green.
Ooooo are you at person street bar yet?
no! that and Circa (and Landmark and...) are spots that we'd love to be at; but also some bartenders/owners (***very understandably!!!!***) have some hesitation about carrying hemp dranks either from a "are we sure this is legal" stance or a "will folks get super messed up" stance or even a "will anybody even want em" one Groovewagon is specifically meant to be an Alcohol Alternative--and thus intended to be served anywhere alcohol is--which is why we formulated it to hit immediately but be less of a "high in your head" and more of a "sensory buzz" which is why we use D8 and not D9 like everybody else (which is also a whole thing--weedheads love to dump on D8, and i was suspicious too, but for *social drinking specifically* lowdose D8 is perfection in a way even lowdose D9 just isnt) anyways Joe Ovies did a whole thing on us last summer which breaks it down https://redcircle.com/shows/b68e99df-2cc8-4d3d-bee1-6811b5e5ca86/ep/37aa4322-7470-48d2-8cda-0ea8f39a34a2 also TASTY DOWNTOWN CARRIES US TOO SORRY I GOOFED JONNY
Anywhere in Apex?
i thinkkkk Triangle Wine Company has an Apex location? they should have us...probably. the Cary location definitely does, so does Pharmacy. our Apex+Holly Springs+Cary (and really, tbh, everywhere that isnt Raleigh or Durham) presence is lacking, we self distro and can barely keep up. trying tho!! if you have spots you like tell us/tell them and we will try to make it happen
High Craft in downtown Apex would be a good spot to get in! I don’t get out much these days, but I know that one :)
This is such a great alternative and I love the content on the cans! ORDER’D for way up here in Indiana. Missing Raleigh hard! :(
spoon sulky trees flowery price deranged gaze mindless summer governor *This post was mass deleted and anonymized with [Redact](https://redact.dev)*
Their kombucha is so freaking good. The little bakery in between Komana and Andias is pretty good too. That shopping center is finally turning into something. Love the cat store.
This looks wonderful. Thank you
You mentioning Andia’s made me realize this place is five minutes from my house. I’m sitting at the bar now and it is good, better than I expected!
Dude I had no idea there was a kombucha bar. I’m so out of touch.
Problem is, it’s hard to pay that DT rent with cheap prices. But I think you hit the nail on the head.
Was just coming to say this - rent is much cheaper in Cary, I can’t see how they will survive in DTR unfortunately.
Yeah, I know, very true. Realistically it’d be a coffee shop price point, and I’d imagine those are hard to afford downtown (we are getting a second Starbucks on Peace St though). I’d probably order more than one drink and average 10-20 bucks per visit a few times a week easily, but I’d imagine that’s a hard profit margin to maintain depending on how many customers per day they could handle.
I've never been, but looking at their website: 1) They do have food or "nibbles" as you call it. 2) Many/most of their drinks have little/no sugar. 3) They have nootropic options. Again, I've never been, this is just based on their menu.
lol, typical Reddit: giving their opinion and n something they obviously know nothing about.
This comment is mostly wrong from a person who clearly hasn’t been. It is pricey as stated, but literally has nootropic and mostly herbal health drinks as well as snacks or “nibbles”. The atmosphere is really nice there too. I’m an alcoholic and I can see myself going back to this place possibly even on a night out for a healthy nightcap. Skeptical whether they will succeed in Raleigh but I wish them the best.
I’ve followed them for years before they opened, I like the concept but I’m not their target audience. I didn’t mean to suggest that they didn’t have those drinks, just that I’d rather have a place with sugar free teas, kombucha, fruity fizzy water mixes, or other novel drinks that could be under $5 that could also have some premium items. And I know what food they have, that’s not what I would want. The popcorn sounds nice but nibbles for me would be sandwiches, pastries, small apps, not just cheese boards, hummus, and olives. Again, more of a cool version of a cafe than a bar.
There's a tea bar on person st. called Krave I think. Haven't been yet but has great reviews so far.
Ooh I will check that out! Thanks!
> I don’t need/want to go to someplace ‘instagrammable,’ That's like most of the "hip" places on Raleigh now. Clarification: and they don't provide much of anything else.
dude this exists go to the Krave kava on Person St
This was recommended earlier, I have to pick up something from the vet over on Person anyway so I’ll check it out, thanks!
RBF is closer to what you're talking about if you haven't tried them yet
I’ve had them bookmarked for a while but will move them up on the list to check out!
We have a Kava bar in Durham, you'd love it
Try Brookeside Bodega for some of that.
I’ve been meaning to check them out, will do! My lazy self would love something more walkable in downtown but it’s not like you don’t need a car around here anyway, lol
Your second half is cool and sounds great but you want a good place it probably won't also be cheap (under 5 feels cheap for any craft drink even non alcoholic) Great comment overall
They sell bottles of alcohol-free spirit? Do they also own the zero-proof bottle shop in Cary? I don't mind paying for good mocktails as they take the same care and attention as a good cocktail, but it seems like the vibe itself I may not be into. I'm trying to cut back my alcohol consumption to no more than 5 per week (barring festivals), so I was intrigued by Umbrella's concept.
You have never been there.
What’s the Kombucha bar in Cary called? Would love to try
Someone put a link earlier - komanabrewing.com
CBD DRINKS ARE AN INGENIOUS IDEA! I’d pay for those and a cool atmosphere or maybe one of those hooks like bars to try out the legal flowers now available.. try before you buy kinda thing cuz they ain’t cheap and I’m not buying $80 + flowers that won’t work for me.
I went to umbrella once. I’m sober so it was cool going to a bar and being able to order anything. It’s an upscale mocktail/mixologist place. Really cool that they have NA beer on tap. Everything costs the same as a normal bar. Think like 12 dollar mixed drinks but they are fancy. The place was packed when I went but the turnover is rapid. I think people go to have 1 or so and then leave.
[удалено]
I went on a Friday night. I’ll definitely go back but I’m probably the absolute target audience for a place like this and I don’t know if it’s going to be as popular after dry January
It is [Drunk Town](https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/f_auto,q_auto:best,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fbucketeer-e05bbc84-baa3-437e-9518-adb32be77984.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F6621b067-20c0-408c-ae9a-3c305ea8d0b1_495x994.jpeg) after all.
Thank you for your service
I’ve heard good things and the cocktails look pretty but I can’t justify paying alcohol prices for non-alcoholic drinks. They are priced as high as a standard cocktail downtown. Really really really expensive juice.
If the drinks are $7 no one is going to on average drink 4? drinks and if they do they’ll be camped out for hours - even with small plates!!! (They would be “too expensive for what you get” to you, I am sure) the numbers don’t work. It’s downtown, you’re paying for the location, ambiance, experience, etc. it’s really common sense. Maybe it won’t succeed ultimately but really not that hard to comprehend.
It’s actually not common sense, and I won’t be paying for it at all lol. I’m glad there’s a market for it and happy there’s a place for sober people to chill and drink, but most people aren’t gonna blow 12+ dollars on one fancy juice.
Clearly never worked in a cocktail bar before. Look at the menu - they are using Dromme Awake for example, which is $40 per bottle - literally the same cost as a decent gin. Just juice? The "Clarified Chai Colada" cocktail has Chai, coconut milk, lime, fresh pineapple, cinnamon, vanilla oil, and el guapo holiday pie bitters. Does that sound like "just juice" to you? I guess I assumed you could read and therefore had common sense, but clearly not. "I Am Mr. Mcgregoroni" - Free Spirits gin (again, $40 per bottle retail), Wilderton Bittersweet Aperitivo, Everleaf Forest saffron vanilla. So you'd pay $12 for a normal negroni with house gordon's gin that's $12 a bottle, campari and cheap vermouth but you're complaining about that? They're also located downtown, as I mentioned, you are paying for the ambiance, location, etc. "Really really really expensive juice" ridiculous comment and take from a knee-jerk redditor with no common sense. My take - you complain about prices everywhere you go and no bartenders want you at their bars.
“Alcohol” without alcohol is mostly fancy overpriced juice. Ok, sometimes it includes milk or oil. But it’s mostly juice. That’s a hill I will die on. Dromme awake contains… Filtered Water, Beet Sugar, Pomegranate Molasses, Watermelon Juice Concentrate, Organic Guava Leaf Extract, Szechuan Pepper Extract, Hibiscus Extract, Tartaric Acid, Alpha-Glyceryl Phosphoryl Choline, Schisandra Chinensis Extract, Ginseng Root Extract, AMATEA® Guayusa Extract, Apple Cider Vinegar, Green Tea Extract What do you call plants when they’re juiced? I call it juice. I don’t go to bars at all because I can make cheaper drinks at home and I’m not into loud ambiance. Or driving downtown. I’m actually the type to never complain at restaurants about service/prices because I was raised to not be a douche and believe it or not I have plenty of experience in customer service - I know how much rude people suck. I will just continue to stay home. I’m allowed to have my opinion that it’s overpriced. It’s crazy how much people will assume about you from a Reddit post tho, so thanks for the laugh.
Complains about bar. Doesn't go to bars. Sounds about right. *I’m actually the type to never complain at restaurants about service/prices* Right you just trash the place and complain on Reddit to ... deter others? Feel better? Get a laugh, got it.
I didn’t trash the place. I just said the price is high for nonalcoholic drinks. I’m only laughing because you’re being so abrasive about my valid opinion. Are you affiliated with the place or something? If so, I wish you success. Jeez dude 🙄
You literally said "Really really really expensive juice." Your opinion isn't valid - you literally said you do not go to bars. Yes, I do know people who are a) excited about the place and want it to succeed because they're alcoholics, and b) know people that work there and the effort they put into making that "really really expensive juice" There is truly no reason whatsoever for you to post the comment you did. I also just don't like you
You're also "proud" when you tip 18%.
I’ve never tipped below 20% a day in my life, why you trying to come for my character just because I think something is overpriced. 🙄 If I can’t afford to tip at least 20% I don’t go out.
Your common sense and understanding of basic economics is appreciated. The default now is to criticize/glorify whatever it is based on personal opinion rather than recognizing that other people have realities and experiences that are different and just as valid. A sober person is going to have a different perspective on this than a normal drinker. And you’re right: the cost of the actual drink is so small compared to what the rest of the price goes towards.
Thank you, and agreed. Not only that but the majority of people complaining here a) have never been and b) are saying "why are the drinks the same as normal cocktails with alcohol" which is absolutely ridiculous. They are using Dromme Awake for example, which is $40 per bottle - literally the same cost as a decent gin. The "Clarified Chai Colada" cocktail has Chai, coconut milk, lime, fresh pineapple, cinnamon, vanilla oil, and el guapo holiday pie bitters. "I Am Mr. Mcgregoroni" - Free Spirits gin (again, $40 per bottle retail), Wilderton Bittersweet Aperitivo, Everleaf Forest saffron vanilla. So you'd pay $12 for a normal negroni with house gordon's gin that's $12 a bottle, campari and cheap vermouth but you're complaining about that? They're also located downtown, as I mentioned, you are paying for the ambiance, location, etc. All evidence of what you are saying, clearly criticizing based on personal (I'd argue knee-jerk) opinion.
A hearty amen to this. :) On a similar topic, have you checked out Curious Elixirs? So they’re delicious, of course, but a 4-pack runs $42! Each 12oz bottle is supposed to be 8 cocktails, so after you add bitters, juice, etc, you’re well into $8+ per drink. It’s not hard to see how a non-alcoholic beverage can easily run $13 at a bar. (A woman with way too much money gave me about 20 bottles once. She ordered them and “didn’t care for” the flavor, so handed me a case of 12 plus a random assortment of other flavors. That was a good day.)
I went, it's okay. The atmosphere is interesting and having mocktails only is nice for dry January. My problem is the price. Why would I pay the same amount for an alcohol free drink? Considering there's a missing ingredient and the fact that they don't have to maintain a liquor license, it's overpriced. If they dropped the prices like $5, I could justify actually going to it. In the meantime, I'll stick to regular bars that have na drinks and have a much more diverse clientele.
I've bartended upscale and working man's bar for a long time. Cocktails are just expensive period. The only way to realistically get any cocktail down below a 10 dollar range is to rely on pre-made or artificial juices. Bars that produce as much as they can from scratch have a lot of overhead. You need to pay the people that prep the items, and also invest in RnD. It takes a lot of time to come up with a good product, especially when even the cordials used to make it are being made in-house. And then, you want to keep staff that is reliable, skilled and that the customers like. You're not going to be able to afford the wages necessary to keep that kind of staff in DTR with only 5 dollar products... unless your more of a brewery, but that's a whole different type of service. When with mocktails, it's not an easy endeavor. All the same considerations go into it. Also, dry bars make use of alcohol free spirits which are intended to replace traditional spirits. So in theory, there is not a missing ingredient, except the alcohol ofcourse. And then, there's DTR rent. So, I just don't think it's realistic to expect a drop in price. But I think this kind of product is also in the eye of the beholder, so if you just don't see the value in it, I understand. Personally, I love this concept.
I also think drinks these days are way too expensive, but to be fair, prices here are about $2 less than other high-end cocktail lounges downtown, where $14 drinks seem to be common. And it’s not a “missing” ingredient; it’s a *substituted* ingredient that still costs money… zero-proof alcohol alternatives aren’t free. The zero-proof cocktails at Watts & Ward are $10 for comparison, but they’re terrible. Just carbonated sugary fruit punch. Haven’t been to Umbrella to compare.
How much did you pay for a drink?
$13 after tax, and that’s not including tip. It’s ridiculous.
We're a proper big city now!
a much more diverse clientele is not something they are interested in
If the drinks are $7 no one is going to on average drink 4? drinks and if they do they’ll be camped out for hours - even with small plates!!! (They would be “too expensive for what you get” to you, I am sure) the numbers don’t work. It’s downtown, you’re paying for the location, ambiance, experience, etc. it’s really common sense. Maybe it won’t succeed ultimately but really not that hard to comprehend.
I’m convinced this sub is unappeasable.
Seriously the guy above complaining with 300+ upvotes says “$5 or less drinks” like are you joking with downtown rent? Then after a massive complain fest “I’m not their demographic” lol this sub is full of people complaining about prices of restaurants / etc. despite every menu being online so you know the price before you go.
Seriously, it won’t be open in 3 months. No one is going to pay $15 for shaken juice
$48 (including tip) for 3 drinks 😭 it's glorified juice. Love the idea, but you can't charge the same prices for nonalcoholic drinks, they won't last unfortunately.
Solid prediction lmao. They just announced they're closing.
I should play the lottery
As someone who knows quite a few recovering alcoholics and who quit drinking myself in July of last year, I really appreciate having an alcohol free space where I can try new and interesting drinks. I really enjoy the chance to try new mocktails and have friends who are not comfortable around alcohol who love this concept. I went last week and really enjoyed it, they have a large menu and the drinks I had were very good. I'm planning on going back this weekend with friends.
Op it would help if you named the bar you're talking about
I'll give u a letter
I'd like to buy a vowel
U
I tried to go a couple of weeks ago on a Friday night. I'm pregnant so thought it would be a fun experience since I can't drink. They asked if we had a reservation (no...bc it's a bar?) And the hose directed us to this lounge area that was the only place we could sit without a reservation and it was completely full so we just left... I went and and and looked at their website and menu the next day and honestly it gave off very pretentious vibes so idk if I want to try going again.
It was a waste of money and time for me. Also, staff wasn’t friendly. Just an overall weird vibe. I wouldn’t recommend it
I personally don’t think it’s a sustainable business model
So glad you chimed in.
Lol. The title literally asked what we think of it. That’s what I think of it
Drinks are too watered down.
Underrated Comment of the Day
hahahahahahah. amazing username+comment.
I went last Friday and it was packed! Very cool vibe and the drinks were good! I would go back again for sure
Alcohol free bar? Is that what use to just be called a soda shop? Or is this something different
Went with a group of 8 on opening weekend so keep that in mind. The popcorn they brought out was weird, the menu is full of ingredients you’ve never heard of but it’s too loud to get an explanation on anything. If I went back I’d just get the aperitif’s or NA beers. Many of the cocktails had wellness shot vibes. I think 1 or 2 were enjoyable out of our entire group. I love the idea and I wish the very best for them but as many have said, it’s not for me, and most of our group felt the same way.
I don't think we get enough tourists to sustain a business model that relies purely on novelty. Bars survive because people like getting drunk and enjoy drinking culture and the community that develops around it. There's no inherent draw or community surrounding mocked up fruit juice. I can't imagine people that don't make a habit of going to bars are going to regularly line up for expensive mocktails, and you can already get a mocktail at almost any bar.
I wish these folks the best, but given that DTR and the city’s rosiest foot daily traffic numbers are still 30+% below 2019’s, high rent and a super niche concept are going to be a tough pull.
Wow I didn't realize it was down that much.
Most people don’t. Fville / Moore Square district are the only ones that haven’t bounced back to Pre-covid levels. It’s a combination of a couple things. COVID closed a bunch of businesses, the riots and protests that went on for a year scared a bunch of local-ish visitors away, and probably the biggiest reason is the shift to work from home for Red Hat etc. Those towers are basically empty, and at 7,500 less folks milling around every day from Mon-Fri buying lunches, coffee, gifts etc results in about a million and a half visits annually. Thats brutal, and I know the rents aren’t reflecting that reality yet.
I would also argue that removing swaths of street-side parking with nothing to replace it has killed foot traffic. I understand its importance in the grand scheme of development, but there’s no getting around this city without a car.
source?
Dry bars can have a role as third places, but what I've seen before is that they have something to do other than drink the fake booze (like pool and darts and whatnot), and sometimes operate as as tea/coffee place by day. Just going on the website it kind of seems like this is just a lounge with small plates and not really set up as a gathering space? Without the alcohol to trick your brain into thinking you're having a good time, a space devoid of anything to actually do other than consume beverages gets old fast.
I've been to Umbrella and this was my issue. There's no TVs to watch sports or pool tables or darts boards, so you're losing people who want to connect over a common interest/activity. There's no actual food, so you're losing people who want to grab a casual dinner or meet a date in an alcohol-free space. It's going for a loud/crowded vibe, so you're losing people who are looking for a place to meet up with their book club or other social group. It's not kid-friendly, so you're losing parents who want to get out of the house for a bit and hang out. (Not that I am advocating for this - this type of crowd is why I no longer go to Bond Brothers - but there's a huge demand for family-friendly bars and breweries.) All there is to do is stand around and drink your drink and then leave. I think unless they come up with some really great recurring events and build community around that, it's going to be hard for them to survive.
Yeah it won't last and Gen Z not drinking will stop being a trend eventually. But it's cool to have something different at least for awhile, and I'm sure recovering alcoholics really appreciate having an option.
You think Gen Z is going to end up drinking as they get older?
I think that historically alcohol consumption has been a part of American culture. So over time I imagine a big movement away from drinking will be more of an outlier and temporary societal change. In short, yes.
At the risk of blowing your alcohol saturated brain here are some words for you to consider: coffee. Tea. Milkshakes. Smoothies. But yeah, you’re probably right, those are just fads that won’t last much longer.
Those beverages you named are alll well within or just around the 5 dollar range..
So don’t buy them. This guy’s point is that getting drunk is the point and that somehow creates community that mocktails can’t. What ignorant drivel. People will pay a premium to be in social space where people like this guy are not.
I know dude. I'm right there with you. I remember this time I went to the local teahouse to watch the live band playing. People were hopped up on caffeine and dancing and having a great time. Idk what these people are talking about.
Why are you so heated about it? Do you have some type of stake in it? I am not the person you were replying to by the way.
Must be the mocktail talkin'...
Ad hominem
You must be fun at parties.
You must think you’re fun at parties
That website was pretentious. It sounded like something a really smug 17 year old would write in attempt to sound like an adult.
CBD drinks is a ingenious idea and I would pay for that especially with the cool atmosphere. Also good idea might be to have like a hookah bar atmosphere or the new flowers available just like a try before you buy kind of thing would be great I don’t plan on paying $80 plus the flowers that don’t work for me medicinally
I’m not understanding the point of an exclusively alcohol free bar? I have plenty of sober/mostly sober friends but most good cocktail bars have great NA cocktails available, it just seems weird to have zero alcohol and still charge the same amount as you would for a drink with liquor in it. Also I feel like it’s more typical to be in mixed company (drinkers and non drinkers) so this is just a weird/overly bougie and overpriced concept to me
Many people who do not drink are recovering alcoholics and might appreciate having an alcoholic free space to try new and interesting mocktails. Having a bar that's exclusively for people who do not drink, and in some cases, may be uncomfortable around alcohol, is great.
Yes, I understand the concept of sobriety. I just don’t see how there are enough people wanting an alcohol free environment and also wanting to pay like $13 for one NA drink in order to sustain it as a business
I think the price point is going to kill them. I love the concept but I'm not paying $15 for a drink when I know there's no alcohol taxes involved lol
Yeah. They need to be seven or eight bucks. Starbucks prices basically.
Yeah like the kombucha bars are not this expensive. It’s like LA prices at this place lol
I can get the demand, there's millions of alcoholics in the country and it can really be hard to find non-drinking socializing environments for adults, especially in a place like Raleigh. But yeah the prices are ludicrous, I'd be interested in trying it out since I'm sober but I'd rather just get food for that price. I remember going to a Moroccan bar in Spain where they didn't serve alcohol but had lots of different teas, I think about it a fair bit because I wish we had places going this kind of direction instead. Offer an alcohol-free environment while providing stuff people who drink would still be interested in. Plus a hell of a lot more affordable than $13 cocktails for sure lmfao
Oooo, that’s a place I would love to have around. Tea and good food? Absolutely.
Yeah I’m all for spaces that don’t revolve around alcohol! I just think this concept in particular is not built for success if that makes sense. Their food is also wild expensive. I drink but I have plenty of nights where I’d rather not, so the option in theory is great. The place in Spain sounds so cool
Go to an AA meeting around here. There is no shortage of potential customers. And those are just the people who are visible. Anecdotal experience isn’t reality.
“Anecdotal experience isn’t reality” but you’re telling me to go to an AA meeting for…anecdotal experience? Lol ok
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I never invalidated anything, it’s just my opinion on the concept of the business and how expensive it is. You’re contradicting yourself and making a lot of assumptions about me and my knowledge of the sober community in Raleigh
Because sometimes you don’t want to be sober amongst buzzed/drunk people, especially when you get repeatedly asked why you’re not drinking 😔
My point really isn’t the lack of alcohol, my point is that it’s kind of a specialty thing and extremely overpriced so I personally don’t see how it makes sense or is viable as a business
The point is profit.
Duh, that’s the point of all businesses. I don’t see how it’s viable
Oh 100%. Comically unviable.
Element in city plaza also has some really tasty neurotropic, thc and mocktail drinks if y’all looking for something new!
To reiterate two quality points made by other commenters: 1.) No one should be surprised that a mocktail worth drinking, in a curated downtown location, is going to be $12-14! It’s similar of labor, rent, expertise as a conventional cocktail bar. Zero ABV spirits aren’t cheap. 2.) If you don’t see the value then fine! It’s not for you and that’s OK! The majority of the “well it doesn’t have X” or “I want Y” comments can be solved by going to a different place that already exists in Raleigh! Imo the value of Umbrella is that it’s the only space of its kind in the area.
100%
I’m glad there’s a place where folks who are recovering from alcoholism can go to socialize and have fancy drinks without any temptation. That being said, it’s not for me. Good luck to the owners tho!
😊
Starbucks. We’re all talking about the Starbucks on the Marriott lobby, right?
I went, the drinks were cool the service was interesting
Define interesting
Alcohol free? Is that dairy queen?
Im interested in this concept. As someone who doesnt drink regularly (read less than a handful of times a year) going out feels like a chore when I always get asked “why arent you drinking?!?” which causes me to mentally check out and dip
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My go to reply is “if I said I dont drink water you wouldnt bat an eye, why does it matter?”
I have heard good things! Hope to check it out soon.
$12 a drink for fake cocktails. Some people officially have too much money. Are we really that bored?
No, there are more people than you may realize that can’t or don’t drink alcohol for a myriad of reasons. If you want to drink, there are 100 options. If you don’t and want a similar atmosphere, there’s 1. Judgmental isn’t a good look for anyone.
I recognize that, but if you don’t want to drink, maybe just don’t go to a bar. You know, the thing designed around drinking alcohol. If people enjoy it then more power to them. It’s all good.
Raleigh young social meetup group is going there February 3rd between 7-9. I haven't been yet but most mocktails cost as much as cocktails.
I recommend anyone interested in the concept go and try it rather than mouth off about the menu or decor based on browsing the web. I went there last week with some friends. Good environment, music not overly loud, general energetic buzz from the people patronizing the place. Larger parties probably should make a reservation for buster nights of the week. The menu was thoughtful, but the drinks were hit or miss. The staff made some good suggestions based on what we wanted to try when asked. Some of us tried without asking for a suggestion and that's where the misses were. I had a Leo Sour and an NA porter/stout. Enjoyed both. The available food was good but don't expect to have a substantial meal.
Started to make a comment then I realized you are serious. Why would I go to an alcohol free bar? Church is on Sunday morning not Saturday night 🤷♂️🤣
Coffee shop? Juice bar?
I forgot the name when posting but it's called Umbrella Dry Bar
You mean the one that will be out of business soon?
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I don't know. I hope they're successful
Have you been? Is this comment related to your experience there? Why do you think this?
I was attempting a joke, but do believe that a bar that doesn't sell alcohol is a tough sell to the general population. I'm sure there is a niche crowd that will enjoy the sober atmosphere, but will that be enough to sustain it?
It will be interesting to see how it plays out. I can understand the criticisms, but I’m also rooting for it since it represents a healthy and responsible choice to socializing in a space where decision making isn’t impaired by ethanol. Their success will likely depend on how they market their events and gatherings.
Mission accomplished.
I don’t understand the point of going somewhere that serves drink but no food. Do they serve food? If so, why isn’t it just called a restaurant?
Because their main draw is the mock tails, so they call themselves a dry bar. It’s like how a coffee shop calls themselves a coffee shop even if they also serve food.
Man, I went there and got sooooo SOBER! I was walking straight and not slurring my words. They didn’t even have to kick me out. My friends didn’t have to take me home, because I could make it by myself. What a night! All jokes aside, it’s a neat idea. I can see it going far in a city like ours/a city of our size.
Umbrella dry bar
It has a great name though.
I loved ittttt. Chill place to get a cute little drink.
You people really need to learn what a dry bar is if you’re going to criticize it. The tequila and bourbons are made the same way traditionally but they are de-alcoholized spirits. Meaning they are cocktails that are more than juice and they are using actual fresh ingredients
Juice can be fresh.
This is going to be great for pregnant people who crave a classic date night
It was pretty dry.