Dry January: The top Twin Cities stores to buy NA drinks
January 01, 2025
The beginning of a new calendar year brings a fresh start to many and, along with it, new habits. Gyms fill up with those looking to commit to their health in the new year, and many choose to abstain from alcohol. Dry January, first formally held in 2013, is an opportunity to give our minds and bodies a break after a busy – and sometimes boozy – holiday season. Participants can reflect on, and reset, their relationship with alcohol.
Whether your Dry January morphs into Dry February, March, and beyond is up to you, but taking a breather is never bad. It has also never been easier to try Dry January with local bottle shops, co-ops, and traditional liquor stores providing satisfying non-alcoholic beverages.
Dry January: Top Minnesota-made choices for NA beer, wine, and moreMarigold
The warm and whimsical south Minneapolis store was Minnesota’s original NA bottle shop in 2022, and it has since grown to include a second store in St. Paul. Attached to owner Erin Flavin’s hair salon, Honeycomb, the original location features non-alcoholic beers, mixers, mocktail ingredients like syrups, and more. Backdropped among a somewhat groovy and boho decor are items for purchase like incense sticks, candles, gifts, locally-made jewelry, and more. The staff know their well-curated offerings, and the shop hosts and co-hosts wellness-based classes and events.
3506 Nicollet Ave., Minneapolis; Milton Square at 2236 Carter Ave., St. Paul
Zero Proof
This clean, bright, and boutique-y spot in northeast Minneapolis has been open since May 2023 and boasts the largest selection of curated non-alcoholic beverages under one roof in the state. The store's walls include information about “functional” beverage ingredients, such as mushrooms, herbs, adaptogens, and nootropics, which increase alertness, encourage relaxation, or provide other health benefits. Knowing NA spirits to try can sometimes feel overwhelming for newcomers, so nearly 80% of the bottles on their shelves are available for sampling. Shoppers can also experiment freely by purchasing single cans of drinks by splitting up multi-packs. Zero Proof works with vendors to host tastings on Saturdays, and as a Dry January bonus, tastings in February will also happen each Friday. Looking for a gift? Don’t forget to browse the vintage glassware, ashtrays, gifts, and more when you visit. More offerings to expect in the coming year include seasonal mocktail kits, NA wine and beer clubs, and more.
2516 Central Ave. NE, Minneapolis
Lucille’s Bottle Shop + Tasting Room
Warm wood adorns the bright white space of Lucille’s bottle shop and provides a cozy environment for gathering, tasting, and exploring NA beverages like NA wine, spirits, beers, and more. Not only do they offer a retail space full of curated NA drinks that you can try at the bar and then replicate at home, but they also host a variety of classes and community events. January brings a host of mocktail classes, Wellness Wednesdays featuring sound baths and meditation, and a mindfulness mixer to create a community connection and wellness space.
24 W 7th Pl, St. Paul
Your local food co-op
The Twin Cities natural foods sector has been a resource for NA options outside standard beers, wines, and more for a long time. Kombuchas are a great option to avoid alcohol while enjoying fresh flavors. Infuse your simple syrups with herbs, spices, or citrus peels to make a seasonal mocktail. Try a local craft soda. DIY a new tea blend from the Bulk section, or hit the Wellness department to find tinctures, mushroom-based additives, pre-made beverages, and other health-focused ingredients to add a healthy kick to your alcohol-free sips.
Eastside Food Co-op - 2551 Central Ave. NE, Minneapolis
Linden Hills Co-op - 3815 Sunnyside Ave., Minneapolis
Seward Co-op Grocery & Deli - 2823 E Franklin Ave., Minneapolis
Seward Co-op Grocery & Deli - 317 E 38th St., Minneapolis
The Wedge Co-op - 2105 Lyndale Ave. S, Minneapolis
Mississippi Market - 622 Selby Ave., St. Paul
Mississippi Market - 1500 W 7th St., St. Paul
Mississippi Market - 740 E 7th St., St. Paul
Hampden Park - 928 Raymond Ave., St. Paul
Find more Twin Cities metro-area co-op locations here.
