Elevate the Experience: Zero-Proof Cocktails That Shine

At the recent Restaurant Canada Show, Gordon Food Service showcased a range of innovative solutions designed to help foodservice operators thrive. Among the exciting trends and products on display, our Business Solutions Specialist, Barry Fraser, crafted a stunning lineup of zero-proof cocktails that proved to be a true highlight. These aren’t your average mocktails – they’re thoughtfully constructed, beautifully presented, and designed to offer your customers an elevated beverage experience.

In today’s market, offering compelling non-alcoholic options is no longer a luxury; it’s a necessity. By thoughtfully curating your zero-proof cocktail menu and paying attention to the details – from exquisite glassware to eye-catching garnishes – Barry notes that you can tap into a growing demand, increase profitability, and ensure every guest feels catered to. Elevating a simple mocktail to a sophisticated “zero-proof cocktail” and dressing it impeccably transforms it into a premium offering that customers are willing to pay more for.

Let’s Dive Into the Four of Barry’s Exceptional Zero-Proof Creations That Captured Attention at the Show:

The Tropical Cloud

(Featuring Tractor Pineapple Passion, Monin Yuzu Syrup, and Seedlip Spirits)

Imagine a drink that transports you to a sun-drenched paradise with every sip. The Tropical Cloud does just that. This vibrant zero-proof cocktail combines the tropical tang of Tractor Pineapple Passion Juice with the citrusy, slightly floral Monin Yuzu Pineapple Syrup – which Monin has identified as the “it” flavor of the year. The inclusion of Seedlip Grove 42 Non-Alcoholic Spirit adds a sophisticated complexity with a flavor profile that includes Mediterranean Orange, Lemon Peel, Lemon Grass, and Ginger, rounding out this beverage without the distraction of the alcohol “burn.”

To truly elevate this experience, Barry opted for a bourbon-style glass, lending a touch of classic elegance to the tropical flavors. But the real showstopper? The addition of a vegan foamer from Noroi. This innovative product creates a luscious, stable foam on top without the need for raw eggs, offering a velvety textural element that those with dietary restrictions get to enjoy too. Plus, the foam lasts significantly longer in the glass than your typical egg white. Let your bartender add an element of theater and anticipation by adding a dash of edible glitter to the shaker and pouring in front of the customer, and enhance the visual appeal further with an edible dried pineapple garnish.

Watermelon Agave Breeze

(Featuring Tractor Beverage Watermelon Mint Juice, Seedlip Notas de Agave Non-Alcoholic, and a hint of Tajin )

For those who appreciate a spicier flavor profile, the Watermelon Agave Breeze is a perfect menu addition. This zero-proof cocktail features slightly sweet & very refreshing Tractor Beverage Watermelon Mint Juice, expertly paired with notes of prickly pear, lime, and agave contributed by Seedlip’s Notas de Agave non-alcoholic spirit. A carefully considered “hint of spice” provided by a sprinkling of Tajin seasoning adds an additional layer of Central American influence to this intriguing flavour profile.

The presentation of this drink is key to its appeal. It’s served in a stylish jicara glass, a traditional vessel often used for tequila-based cocktails, immediately signaling its heritage and providing a sophisticated drinking experience. The rim is adorned with a dirty mint crystal rim, which adds visual texture, a pop of color, and an aromatic element. To complete the Instagram-worthy look, add an optional touch of edible glitter to the shaker before serving. Barry notes that it will catch the light and supplement the guest experience.

Fauxspresso Martini

(Featuring Mosaic Thrive Coffee Beans and Seedlip Spice 94 Non-Alcoholic Spirit)

Coffee-based cocktail consumption jumped from 2% to 15% in 2024, which means that if you don’t have one on your drink menu, you could be leaving a missed sale on the table. Take it one step further by serving a zero-proof option. The Fauxspresso Martini offers the same rich, invigorating flavours of its classic liquor-enhanced counterpart. This sophisticated zero-proof cocktail starts with Mosaic Thrive coffee, brewed to perfection. You have the option to purchase whole beans and grind them yourself, or purchase a pre-ground, labor-saving option that goes straight into the coffee maker. The addition of Seedlip Spice 94 Non-Alcoholic Spirit introduces warm, aromatic notes of cardamom and allspice with a citrus finisher, , and a touch of simple syrup sweetens it up a bit, giving that complex and satisfying alternative your guests are looking for..

The choice of glassware for this drink is paramount. It’s served in a striking sapphire blue Martini stem glass, which immediately conveys elegance and sophistication. Barry emphasizes that your glassware should complement the drink and create the same experience as the boozy version, so serving in this glass will enhance its visual appeal while keeping it true to its roots. Additionally, the deep blue hue of this particular martini glass adds a touch of drama and makes this zero-proof cocktail a standout on any menu.

Midnight Lemonade

(Featuring Markon Fresh Lemonade, Monin Blackberry Sangria Syrup, fresh berries, and Seedlip Grove 42 Non-Alcoholic Spirit)

The Midnight Lemonade is a colorful, fruity zero-proof cocktail that offers a delightful balance of sweet and tart flavors. It starts with the bright, clean taste of Markon fresh lemonade, enhanced by Monin Blackberry Sangria Syrup. The addition of fresh berries adds a pop of natural color while also providing an on-trend flavour profile. Seedlip Grove 42 Non-Alcoholic Spirit provides a nuanced citrus undertone with a slight ginger bite, adding depth to this seemingly simple yet sophisticated drink.

For a drink like this, consider a tall, elegant glass such as a Highball or wine glass. For a bubbly version, add soda water and consider serving in a Collins glass, which is slightly taller and wider to accommodate the additional volume. No matter your glassware choice, you can garnish generously with fresh blackberries and a slice of dehydrated lime or lemon, and you’ve got yourself a fresh and fruity zero-proof winner.

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By embracing the art of zero-proof cocktails, you can cater to a wider audience, boost your beverage program’s profitability, and create memorable experiences for your guests. Take inspiration from these creations by Barry Fraser and consider how you can elevate your non-alcoholic offerings with thoughtful ingredients, stunning glassware, and eye-catching garnishes. Your customers – and your bottom line – will thank you!