Charleston, July 26, 2025
News Summary
Charleston is witnessing a growing trend of non-alcoholic cocktails as younger generations show a decline in alcohol consumption. Establishments like Sèchey play a key role in this shift, offering curated no-and-low alcohol beverages. This movement reflects younger consumers’ focus on health and mindfulness, prompting bars and restaurants in the area to provide unique non-alcoholic options. As interest in these beverages rises, Charleston’s cocktail scene continues to evolve, highlighting diverse and creative offerings.
Charleston is experiencing a notable increase in non-alcoholic cocktail options, driven by a declining trend in alcohol consumption among young adults. A 2023 Gallup poll revealed that just 62% of American adults under 35 report drinking alcohol, a significant drop from 72% two decades ago. This shift indicates that younger generations are drinking less frequently and are less likely to engage in excessive drinking compared to previous years.
In response to this trend, Charleston has seen a surge in demand for non-alcoholic cocktails. The retail shop Sèchey, founded by Emily Heintz and located at 540 King St., plays a pivotal role in this evolving beverage landscape. Opened in 2021, Sèchey specializes in no-and-low alcohol options, which includes its own line of beverages as well as a co-op program with Target that features curated non-alcoholic selections from brands such as Ghia, Kin Euphorics by Bella Hadid, and De Soi by Katy Perry.
Heintz observes that themes of health, mindfulness, and authenticity are shaping the drinking habits of younger consumers. This shift has led to the concept of “alcohol flexibility,” allowing individuals to choose whether to partake in drinking based on their personal context.
Since Sèchey’s inception, the variety of non-alcoholic beverages available in the area has expanded significantly. Non-alcoholic cocktails are gaining recognition as legitimate drinks, crafted with the same level of care as traditional cocktails. Ingredients such as infused syrups and adaptogens are increasingly utilized in these drinks, enhancing their appeal.
Many local establishments have begun to embrace this trend by incorporating unique non-alcoholic options into their menus. Lane Becker, the general manager at FIG, notes that diners are increasingly prioritizing wellness in their beverage choices. Non-alcoholic options, which were once considered temporary solutions for individuals abstaining from alcohol, are now positioned as mainstream offerings.
Bars throughout Charleston have also begun ensuring that their non-alcoholic cocktails undergo the same meticulous testing processes as alcoholic drinks. The trend is moving toward simplification, as many establishments aim to create original non-alcoholic drinks rather than merely mimicking alcoholic counterparts.
Some notable establishments in Charleston offering inventive non-alcoholic cocktails include:
- 167 Raw Oyster Bar: Grapefruit Spritz and Ginger Mule
- Abbracci Italian Cuisine & Cocktails: Pomegranate and blackberry mixes
- Beautiful South: Literary-themed drinks focused on mood and composition
- Félix Cocktails et Cuisine: Includes Citron-Fraise and La Tahitienne among zero-proof options
- Kultura: Halo Halo mocktail inspired by a Filipino dessert
- Lillian’s Petite Market & Eatery: Creative options like Good Thoughts
- Ma’am Saab: Truckstop Cooler mixes pomegranate and citrus
- Stars Restaurant: Drinks like Silver Lining and Midnight Train to Georgia
- Zero George: Garden Suite Spritz featuring hibiscus and blackberry
With new non-alcoholic cocktails frequently added to menus, Charleston’s beverage scene continues to evolve, highlighting the importance of variety and innovation in meeting consumer preferences.
FAQ
What is causing the increase in non-alcoholic cocktail options in Charleston?
The decrease in alcohol consumption among young adults is leading to a growing demand for non-alcoholic cocktails.
What is Sèchey?
Sèchey is a no-and-low alcohol retail shop that offers a variety of curated non-alcoholic beverages located at 540 King St. in Charleston.
What types of non-alcoholic cocktails are available in Charleston?
Charleston bars and restaurants now offer a range of inventive non-alcoholic cocktails, including unique mixes and themed beverages.
How have non-alcoholic cocktails evolved in recent years?
Non-alcoholic cocktails are now considered legitimate drinks, crafted with high-quality ingredients and creativity instead of simply mimicking alcoholic beverages.
Which establishments in Charleston have popular non-alcoholic cocktails?
Establishments like 167 Raw Oyster Bar, Abbracci Italian Cuisine, and FIG are among those offering diverse non-alcoholic cocktail options.
Key Features
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Declining Drinking Rates | 62% of adults under 35 drink alcohol, a drop from 72% two decades ago. |
| Health Consciousness | Focus on health, mindfulness, and authenticity shaping consumption habits. |
| Sèchey | No-and-low alcohol shop offering unique non-alcoholic beverages. |
| Cocktail Quality | Non-alcoholic cocktails crafted with care, using infused syrups and adaptogens. |
| Unique Offerings | Bars in Charleston feature inventive non-alcoholic cocktails across various themes. |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- Charleston City Paper: A Summer Spotlight on Hangover-Free Cocktails
- The New York Times: NA Beer, Wine & Cocktails Industry
- CHStoday: Your Guide to Alcohol-Free Options in Charleston
- Food & Wine: Target Carding for Nonalcoholic Drinks
- Wikipedia: Non-alcoholic beverage
Author: STAFF HERE CHARLESTON
The CHARLESTON STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREcharleston.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Charleston, Charleston County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Spoleto Festival USA, Charleston Wine + Food Festival, and the MOJA Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Charleston Metro Chamber of Commerce and the Charleston Museum, plus leading businesses in tourism and maritime industries that power the local economy such as South Carolina Ports Authority and the Charleston Visitor Center. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREaiken.com, HEREbeaufort.com, HEREchapin.com, HEREcharleston.com, HEREclinton.com, HEREcolumbia.com, HEREgeorgetown.com, HEREgreenwood.com, HEREgreenville.com, HEREhiltonhead.com, HEREirmo.com, HEREmyrtlebeach.com, HEREnewberry.com, HERErockhill.com, HEREspartanburg.com, HEREaustin.com, HEREcollegestation.com, HEREdallas.com, HEREhouston.com, and HEREsanantonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
