Park Slope’s First Zero-Proof Bar Has Opened And It’s A Must-Visit For A Night Out

As someone who doesn't drink, the thought of going to a bar is quite intimidating because there's typically pressure to drink and be social. I've been to a bar before and have ordered a Shirley Temple, but sometimes I wish more places had unique alcohol-free beverages. That said, a zero-proof bar in Park Slope, Brooklyn, is changing the narrative and is a game-changer for non-drinkers and sober-curious folks. Enter: Mockingbird.

Mockingbird is the first of its kind in Park Slope, offering zero-proof beverages and light bites to patrons. The bar was founded by two friends, Evan Clark and Coulton Vento, and opened in early January after two years of careful planning.

"We were inspired to create Mockingbird to open more spaces for people without the focus primarily being on alcohol," said Clark. "We wanted to offer an upscale environment for adults who want a space for a nice night out." 

The duo spent months before the opening experimenting with ingredients and N/A (non-alcoholic) spirits to see what combinations worked. "We wanted to play on flavors that were not entirely focused on sweetness like most zero-proof cocktails are," Clark said. "We experimented with bitterness, umami, and sourness like how you would in a culinary setting." 

The beverage menu at Mockingbird consists of cocktails, beer, cider, and wine. Some of the most popular cocktails on the menu include The Herbalist (House-made gentian aperitif, Roots Divino Bianco 1 verjus, basil, lemon, CO2), Perennial Tonic (Abstinence Cape Floral, Antidote Deep Red, rhubarb, lemon, egg white, tonic, rhubarb bubble / 0.0%, ve) and The Nightshift (Three Spirit Nightcap, lapsang souchong, ginger, lemon, honey / contains adaptogens) to name a few. 

While you can visit for drinks, to get the whole experience, you'll want to try some of the light bites too. Mockingbird offers an elevated twist on classic bar food. For example, you'll find truffle popcorn on the menu alongside charcuterie boards and flatbreads. The prices for the drinks and food are in alignment with what you'll find at other restaurants that offer mocktails and non-alcoholic beverages. 

The zero-proof bar has been welcomed with open arms by members of the Park Slope community and has received much positive feedback. 

"We’ve had an incredibly positive response, a lot of patrons from various backgrounds and age ranges," said Clark. "Several people who come to our place are looking to cut back on drinking but still want to have a nice night out."

The space is warm and inviting with an upscale midcentury modern vibe, like a proper upscale cocktail bar. "We want it to be the neighborhood spot but also somewhere you must try at least once," said Clark. 

Aside from delicious drinks, Mockingbird offers different programming, such as trivia Tuesdays, live music, and drag queen bingo. These are all fun ways to engage people with the venue while also supporting local talent.

Mockingbird is located on 213 7th Avenue and is open every day except Monday. Plus, they offer brunch on Saturdays and Sundays if you want a booze-free brunch spot to try out in Brooklyn.