Coastal Curious in Lewes: My Top 5 Spots for Zero Proof Sips

N/A Scorecards

Aug 21

The Sober Curious Scorecard, Lewes Edition (Summer 2025)

Hey Coastal Curious crew! Today we're diving into one of my absolute favorite topics: finding delicious drinks that makes you feel amazing, right here in our beloved Lewes, DE. As many of you know, my journey toward living well and traveling freely has increasingly embraced a mostly alcohol-free lifestyle. This isn't about deprivation; it's about discovery – discovering vibrant flavors, thoughtful concoctions, and a whole new world of 'drinking better' without the booze.

Lewes is stepping up its game, and I'm thrilled to share my top picks for restaurants that shine when it comes to their non-alcoholic beverage programs. I've sipped my way through town to bring you my personal scorecard, highlighting the spots where the spirit-free experience is worth a try, whether you’re sober, sober curious, or simply looking to shake things up in the name of health.

Get ready to explore where you can enjoy next-level mocktails, unique house-made refreshers, and truly thoughtful non-alc programs. Let's raise a glass of something delicious to the best of Lewes!

#5: Lewes Oyster House

Special Spot for Sober Sips

Securing the #5 spot on our N/A Scorecard is Lewes Oyster House, an easy go-to when you want a night out that feels special.

What really caught my eye (and tastebuds!) is their growing selection of N/A wine. On my last visit I was downright giddy to spot a non-alcoholic Chardonnay on the list - still a unicorn at most local spots. It’s such a welcome move for those of us craving more than “mocktail or soda?”

And then there’s the peach bellini. Bubbly, just-sweet-enough, and basically late summer in a glass. Truly, every N/A sip here has been beautifully balanced and thoughtfully made. I should know, I’ve tried them all (for science, of course).

If I had one wish? I’d love to see their zero-proof menu mix it up more often - some fresh seasonal creations or a wider range of N/A beers would really raise the bar. But even as is, Lewes Oyster House earns its spot for bringing quality, spirit-free wine and cocktails to the table.

#4: Kindle

Ahead of the Curve

As a self-proclaimed explorer of the Lewes food scene, I'm thrilled to rank Kindle as our #4 spot for non-alcoholic drink options. For years, long before it became a popular trend, Kindle has been dedicated to offering sophisticated non-alcoholic cocktails, and they do it with the same care and presentation as their boozy counterparts. We're talking proper glassware, no plastic cups or childish presentations here! Their mocktails are served in beautiful presentations, which makes the entire experience feel special and elevated.

On a recent visit, they were unfortunately out of the non-alcoholic prosecco needed for their signature mocktail, the Italian Dry-Hound (which is wonderful!). But what I truly appreciated was the staff's thoughtfulness; they didn't just shrug and offer a seltzer. Instead, they took the time to craft a different, delicious option for me, a Blackberry Spritz, showing a genuine commitment to their customers' experience.

My one small wish is to see a bit more variety on the menu. While their cocktails are expertly crafted, a few more options (and perhaps a few more non-alcoholic beers) would be a welcome addition.

While you're there: Don't miss out on the food! My personal favorite is the burger which is, without a doubt, one of the best in Lewes. It's the perfect companion to a well-crafted mocktail and a truly satisfying meal.

Blackberry spritz (off menu), Athletic Free Wave

#3: Half Full

Small Place with a Big Offering

Don't let the cozy size and focused menu of Half Full fool you. This place is big on options, especially when it comes to non-alcoholic drinks. While they're famous for their unique and tasty pizzas and salads, it’s their commitment to offering a wide variety of zero-proof choices that truly sets them apart.

Half Full makes it a clear priority to provide excellent alcohol alternatives. You’ll typically find both a non-alcoholic rosé and sparkling wine, which is a fantastic and often rare find. Beyond that, they offer a selection of ready-to-drink (RTD) canned mocktails and several non-alcoholic beer options. For a small restaurant, this is an impressive and much-appreciated variety.

The thoughtfulness behind their drink menu shows that you don't need a huge space or a massive menu to deliver a great non-alcoholic experience. Half Full proves that it's all about making sure every guest has something special to enjoy.

While you're there: You can't go wrong with their pizza and salads. For a fantastic slice, I highly recommend the Smokin' Margherita or the hearty That's a Spicy Meatball. And for a fresh, delicious salad, my go-tos are the All American or the classic House.

#2: Station on Kings

A Daytime Gem for Non-Alcoholic Drinks

The Station on Kings might be an unconventional addition to a list of non-alcoholic drink spots, as it’s a daytime destination for coffee, breakfast, and lunch, but it absolutely earns its spot at #2. This is a must-visit in Lewes for anyone who appreciates a thoughtfully crafted zero-proof experience.

They offer an impressive and constantly rotating non-alcoholic lineup that rivals many full-service restaurants. Their mocktails, often featuring Seedlip non-alcoholic spirits, are seasonal and expertly mixed. In addition, they serve unique Refreshers, which are fancy seltzers made with their own house-made syrups. For those looking for a little extra something, you can even add a "garden" microdose infusion to your drink or grab a similarly infused canned seltzer from their fridge.

My recommendation is to go in the mid-afternoon. Start with a coffee drink - I love a cafe au lait in the winter and an iced latte in the summer - paired with a sweet bite like their amazing ginger or lemon poppyseed cookie. Then, as the afternoon winds down, switch to one of their delicious mocktails.

Beyond the drinks, you truly can’t go wrong with anything on their menu. The Station on Kings is more than just a café; it’s a beautifully curated experience. While you're there, you can browse their selection of well-chosen household items or find the perfect flowers, plants, and herbs to spruce up your garden. It’s a do-not-miss destination in Lewes for so many reasons.

Iced lattes, Strawberry lemon ginger refresher

Cafe au lait, Ginger cookie, drip coffee (his)

#1: Harbour

The Undisputed Champion of Non-Alcoholic Drinks in Lewes

Let's be clear from the start: Harbour isn't just participating in the non-alcoholic drink trend; they are setting the gold standard in Lewes, and frankly, far beyond. For anyone in search of a truly thoughtful and exciting zero-proof experience, look no further. Harbour has completely blown the competition out of the water.

What truly sets Harbour apart is their constantly rotating, seasonal menu of non-alcoholic drinks. This isn't an afterthought or a token gesture; it's evident that the talented bartender pours the exact same level of creativity and passion into crafting these zero-proof options as they do their regular cocktail list. You'll find an impressive array of non-alcoholic spirits expertly combined into innovative concoctions that are anything but boring.

The commitment to providing a comprehensive non-alcoholic experience doesn't stop there. Harbour also offers a selection of non-alcoholic wines and, unlike many other establishments in the area, offers multiple choices when it comes to non-alcoholic beers. It's a true pioneer in this space, recognizing and catering to those of us who choose not to drink alcohol with a level of sophistication and variety rarely seen. You could visit Harbour time and time again and still discover new and exciting mocktails to savor.

And let's not forget the food! Harbour's culinary offerings are just as exceptional as their drinks. Whether you're looking for a casual evening at the bar with a few delectable nibbles (the bread basket, sourced from the aforementioned Station on Kings, is an absolute must-try!) or a more formal, special-occasion meal (if the beef wellington graces the menu, do not hesitate to order it), you are in for a treat. The quality and care put into every dish perfectly complement the outstanding drink program.

Huge kudos to Harbour for leading the way in the local non-alcoholic beverage scene. Their dedication to providing diverse, creative, and high-quality zero-proof options is truly commendable, and we sincerely hope that other establishments in Lewes will take note and follow their inspiring lead. Harbour is a must-visit for anyone, whether you're abstaining from alcohol or simply looking for a delicious and thoughtfully crafted beverage.

Untitled Art Orange Peel Wit, Buzzz Off!! (N/A Bee’s Knees)

Tracy Milcendeau