8 Low or No Alcohol Cocktail Books For At-Home Happy Hour

by Elouise Anders; illustrated by Claudia Frittitta

With classics like the Martini, Negroni, and Cosmo, and new creations like a Springtime Fizz, Sparkling Melon Sangria, and Juniper & Tonic, Nixology is full of recipes that are full of flavor instead alcohol. Whip up single cocktails, batches to share, or low-ABV drinks for a tiny buzz.

by Natasha David

Drink Lightly presents a relaxed style of drinking that goes down easy but is soundly rooted in the technical precision of craft cocktails. Award-winning bartender Natasha David’s approach to low-alcohol, aperitif-style drinks goes far beyond the formulaic—bitter liqueur plus soda—and takes full advantage of an incredible and vast array of low-proof spirits, liqueurs, and wines, along with flavorful fruit and herbal infusions. 

by Derek Brown; photographs by Nole Garey

From Dry January to Sober October, moderation is having a moment. This book from spirits expert Derek Brown (newly mindful drinker himself) will show the sober and sober-curious how to mix complex, sophisticated low- and no-proof drinks. 

by Danielle Centoni; photographs by Eric Medsker

Inspired by the world’s embrace of Italy’s ever-popular bubbly and refreshing Aperol spritz, Just a Spritz is an expansive collection of 50 easy, low- or no-alcohol fizzy, flavorful cocktails perfect for imbibing any time of year.

by Camille Wilson; photographs by Jennifer Chong

Lighthearted and full of easy-to-make drinks, Free Spirit Cocktails is a refreshing approach to cocktail-making without the hangover. This collection of 40 zero-alcohol recipes features a wide variety of flavorful refreshments that have the look and feel of well-crafted cocktails without any liquor involved. From twists on classic cocktails to inventive sippers, quick 3-ingredient recipes, and more, this mocktail book offers countless opportunities for a spirit-free moment.

by Julia Bainbridge; photographs by Alex Lau

Writer Julia Bainbridge spent a summer driving across the U.S. going to bars, restaurants, and everything in between in pursuit of the question: Can you make an outstanding nonalcoholic drink? The answer came back emphatically: “Yes.” With an extensive pantry section, tips for sourcing ingredients, and recipes curated from stellar bartenders around the country—including Verjus Spritz, Chicha Morada Agua Fresca, Salted Rosemary Paloma, and Tarragon Cider—Good Drinks shows that decadent brunch cocktails, afternoon refreshers, and evening digestifs can be enjoyed by anyone and everyone.

by Kerry Benson and Diana Licalzi

Developed by two registered dietitians, these non-alcoholic drink recipes feature nutritious, all-natural ingredients with minimal sugar that you can easily find at any grocery store. The book also features valuable information about the benefits of an alcohol-free lifestyle, tips for sustainable mixology, and advice for ordering mocktails at a restaurant or bar.

by Elva Ramirez; photography by Robert Bredvad

More than 100 years after Prohibition was enacted, bartenders are actually excited about people not drinking again. From Dry January and alcohol-free bars opening around the country to people interested in abstaining from drinking for better health, the no-proof movement is one of today's fastest-growing lifestyle choices, as consumers become more mindful and re-examine their relationship to alcohol. Veteran reporter Elva Ramirez interviewed the biggest names in cocktails and collected recipes for vibrant no-proof drinks from the world's top bars in Paris, London, and New York.