Setting the city’s non-alcoholic cocktail scene aflutter, Heads
+ Tails’ split personality makes for the best hangout in NW6. The
brainchild of Will Partridge and Chris Dennis, this two-floor bar
slots two entirely different vibes (plus an outdoor terrace) under
one roof. On the ground floor you’ll find the airy Heads cocktail
bar: think walls splashed in shades of eggshell blue, plush,
gold-laced bar stools and, centre stage, a long, turquoise-tiled
bar. Skim past the house cocktails and the order the alcohol-free
Old Pals – a zingy, floral concoction in which elderflower ably
stands in for gin. We’d strongly suggest snagging a side of the
homemade houmous with sourdough. If sticking to resolutions isn’t
your style, slip downstairs to Tails, the sultry, lower-level bar –
all wooden beams, exposed brick and matte-black walls, plus a
lengthy list of short and stirred options. Looking for something
light and fresh? Try the French Pearl Martini.

We’ve said it before and we’ll say it again: no place does it
quite like The Hoxton. A highlight of the hotel group’s
Southwark outpost on Blackfriars Road, the ground-floor Albie might
be the hippest hangout London has to offer. Floor-to-ceiling
windows are fringed by surprisingly large palms, while wicker
chairs invite lingering under the copper pendant lighting. Come to
enjoy not just the page-long list dedicated to alcohol-free
concoctions, but a menu of delicious Mediterranean-style light
bites. Start by ordering a sharing plate of buttermilk-fried cod
bites, served in a buffalo sauce with a drizzle of ranch dressing.
Next, grab a bowl of the Sweet Eastern salad, in which courgette
ribbons meet toasted walnuts and pomegranate seeds. Don’t leave
without having tried the Ginish mocktail.

Sipping mocktails in a library might not be the first thing that
springs to mind when planning a night on the tiles, but hear us
out. A few years back, The Lanesborough’s sleek and stylish Library
Bar launched a menu dedicated to its most popular cocktails – minus
the alcohol. From the selection of old and new favourites, we’re
ordering up the Genuine & Tonic, which tastes even better than
a regular G&T. For those who prefer something bubbly, there’s
the Upside-Down Fizz – think spiced cinnamon mixed with lemongrass
and vanilla. Insider tip: this place has a strict dress code, so
arrive smart-casual to avoid disappointment.

The “Walkie Talkie” is one of London’s most famous landmarks,
and its fabulous rooftop oasis is home to some of the best
alcohol-free cocktails in town, as well as panoramic views across
the capital. Entry is free – don’t be alarmed by the airport-style
frisk upon entry. After making the 160m ascent via the lift, you’ll
arrive in the cloud-busting Sky Garden conservatory. Though you’re
welcome to wander around its patches of greenery (courtesy of the
Kew Gardens team), we’d suggest booking a sunset-hour table at the
Sky Pod Bar. Kick back with a Spiced Mocktail Mule and
watch the sky turn blood-orange. If the weather is good, step
outside onto the terrace, which promises spectacular views of Tower
Bridge and The Shard.

The Book Club is the kind of bougie bar that East Londoners want
to keep for themselves, and with one glance at its booze-free menu,
we can hardly blame them. Though it’s often dubbed as Colours
Hoxton’s little sister, this is an established joint within its
own right. Round up the troops and head here on a Wednesday –
two-for-one pizza night . You haven’t lived until you’ve tried a
slice of the pepperoni option paired with a Nojito. Party people
should ignore the candlelit corners and check out the regular DJ
sessions, or, for something a little more dramatic, the venue’s
famed drag events.

You name it and 34 Mayfair has done it. We’re talking a dine-in
bauble grotto, levitating Boris Johnson dolls (seriously) and
floral extravaganzas that would put the Chelsea Flower Show to
shame – even the menu looks like an entry to the Royal Academy’s
Summer Exhibition. Decor aside, the non-alcoholic drinks manage to
make spirits seem drab. Order The 34 Virgin Colada: one gulp and
you’ll be (mentally) transported straight to the Caribbean. FYI:
this is one of the best brunch spots in London. Book a table here
in February to enjoy a glass of fizz alongside your pancakes or
smoked salmon.

One for lovers of seafood, Ceviche’s bohemian vibe takes
inspiration from Lima’s Barranco neighbourhood. With its
blue-washed panelling, this place feels more like a habourside
joint than a Soho hangout. For a true flavour of Peru, try the
Machu Picchu Tonic, starring hibiscus-infused ginger fused with
lemongrass cordial. We know you’re here for the drinks, but it’s
difficult not to mention the dishes. Stop by for a
street-food-style lunch – the crispy squid jalea is our favourite.
Time on your hands? Settle down and savour the decadent corn and
prawn tamal. Sweet tooth? End with the indulgent dulce de leche
crepe.