Easing back in: where to drink 'mocktails'

Returning to the City might be a shock for some people, after home working for so many months. Unsurprisingly, many employees are easing back in slowly, with many spending just a few days in the office each week.

If you want to adopt the same approach with your drinking, and only feel like a few thirst-quenching yet sober drinks as you get back into City life, here are some of the best bars in the area to find a decent mocktail.

Across the road from Lloyd’s of London, this Revolution site is already extremely popular with most City workers simply due to its prime location.

However, Revolution bars have become increasingly renowned for their ability to cater to the moderate-drinking audience, which has seen this particular branch now highly rated by Club Soda (the community for moderate and non-drinkers).

This all comes from the fact Revolution puts a big effort into a fun night for everyone. From its expansive food menu and bright decor right down to its lively music playlist and creative mocktail list, there is a lot here to enjoy.

It hasn’t yet reopened but is accepting booking enquiries online and you can sign up to be contacted when it’s fully functional again.

Why not try: Cucumber & Apple Cooler (fresh cucumber, sugar cane syrup, apple juice, mint and mixer Supasawa)

Address: Revolution Leadenhall, 140 Leadenhall St, Lime Street, London, EC3V 4QT

Open: Yes (bookings limited to maximum of 6 people)

Website: http://www.revolution-bars.co.uk/bar/london-leadenhall/

According to Club Soda, this is one of the highest-ranking bars in the Square Mile for moderate and non-drinkers. While some readers may be sceptical about All Bar One’s inclusion, a huge amount of thought has been put into its low and non-alcohol cocktail list and this is one of the reasons it’s received such recognition.

In addition to its expansive food menu, the location of this bar overlooks the iconic Tower of London and Tower Bridge, which gives drinkers a real sense of occasion when they drop in.

The perfect spot for a cooling mocktail and a tasty sharing platter with friends at the end of a long day.

Why not try: Passionfruit Porn Star (Seedlip Grove 42, passionfruit and cranberry, served with a shot of lemonade)

Address: 16 Byward St, London, EC3R 5BA

Open: Yes

Website: http://www.allbarone.co.uk/national-search/london/all-bar-one-byward-street

Located over the road from Monument station, The Folly is an easy stop for anyone drifting by on their commute back towards London Bridge. It’s a refreshing break from the dark wood panelling of many city pubs, with decor built around vibrant flower displays and colourful indoor vegetation.

The drinks menu includes low-alcohol and “zero-proof” concoctions, created in keeping with the nature-themed surroundings. Check out “Garden Fizz” or “Jasmine Dream” for a fruity punch that won’t cloud your judgement.

The Folly also has a full menu, with delicious meals such as hot smoked salmon with fennel, radish, ginger, watercress and Asian dressing, or the new vegan plant burger with pineapple ketchup and pickled onions in a charcoal bun – perfect for pairing with an imaginative mocktail or two.

Why not try: Jasmine Dream (chamomile syrup, mint, lemon, white peach and jasmine soda)

Address: 41 Gracechurch St, Candlewick, London, EC3V 0BT

Open: Yes

Website: https://www.drakeandmorgan.co.uk/the-folly/

Tucked away just behind the Bank of England, Demon, Wise & Partners is a classic basement cocktail bar, serving great cocktails made with exceptional spirits. However, there is a lot here too for the teetotal or moderate drinker.

With seating only (and reservations recommended), it’s also a great deal more chilled than some other bars might be.

Demon, Wise & Partners serves several non-alcoholic options using the Everleaf aperitif, developed by the bar’s owners. Drawing on one of the founder’s background as a conservation biologist, this uses sustainably sourced plants to create a complex aperitif that is easily mixed with tonic to make a spritz.

Why not try: Everleaf Spritz (Everleaf non-alcoholic bittersweet aperitif and tonic water)

Address: 27a Throgmorton St, London, EC2N 2AN

Open: Yes (Tue-Fri, 4pm-10pm, seated only)

Website: http://www.demonandwise.co.uk

Located 14 floors up in the Walkie Talkie, 14 Hills offers some fantastic views of the iconic City skyline. This cocktail bar, nestled within a vibrant restaurant, means it is perfectly placed for the age-old combination of cocktails and dinner.

The decor is beautifully arranged to make the most of the huge windows and commanding view, with flowers and greenery running throughout.

14 Hills has an expansive cocktail and drinks menu to choose from and the oval onyx bar is open late on both Fridays and Saturdays.

Why not try: Off the booze (Seedlip Garden, fresh lime, homemade mint syrup)

Address: 14^th Floor, 120 Fenchurch St, Langbourn, London, EC3M 5BA

Open: Yes

Website: http://14hills.co.uk