Dry January in Los Angeles Doesn’t Have to be a Desert
Dry January has a bad connotation; a painful journey through the month after the holidays with no alcohol to comfort you. However, following a very wet December, I know I need to commit to at least HALF the month without indulging in the poisonous pleasures of a glass of wine. Turns out Dry January in Los Angeles doesn’t have to leave you feeling isolated in a hot desert – there are plenty of places to be your alcohol-free oasis.
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The Wine Station (DTLA)
This brand new wine bar is kicking off their debut in Los Angeles with Non-Alcoholic Wine Tastings and Non-Alcoholic Cocktails like a Spicy Margarita made with Ritual – one of my favs for agave spirit alternatives. A Non-Alcoholic Wine Tasting Flight is just $15, and if you settle on a favorite, you can enjoy a full glass for $10. Pair that with a Caviar Grilled Cheese, and you won’t even miss the alcohol.
When to Visit: The Wine Station is open every day except Monday at 5 p.m. Happy Hour takes place from 5 to 6:30 p.m., when you can get $2 off wines.
Mírate (Los Feliz)
One of Los Angeles’s most stunning restaurants also features a sizzling bar program and is listed among the Top 50 Best Bars in North America! During Dry January, they’ve updated some of the most popular cocktails to make them accessible to everyone.
The Guerito is an alcohol-free version of the El Guero, crafted with aguachile, nopales granita, and fresh lime juice. The Taquerito is a sans spirits spin on the classic El Taquero #2 and is made with pineapple juice, lacto chorizo, chamomile honey, and lemon.
When to Visit: Mírate is open nightly at 5 p.m. and weekends at 11 a.m. for brunch.
Boisson (Online)
While this trendy non-alcohol retailer closed its brick-and-mortar locations in 2024, the online marketplace is overflowing with beverages that can help you embrace the Dry January lifestyle. One of my favorites for 2026 is the 12-Day Dopamine Reset, which is just the right amount of structure most of us need to get started and stay on track.
The reset includes 12 Non-Alcoholic Beverages, such as a Ginger Miso Mule and Spicy Watermelon Margarita, but what makes this truly special is the 12-Day Dopamine Reset Guide, which is emailed to you after your purchase. It features 12 Days of Mindful Activities designed to support your sober journey and keep you going through February.
When to Visit: Boisson is open whenever you want, since it’s entirely digital. The 12-Day Dopamine Reset Guide is $75, and there are always first-time offers, including 21% off the Dry January Discovery Pack ($100).
Big Bar (Los Feliz)
The always innovative Big Bar is featuring a new menu of Non-Alcoholic Beverages inspired by Children’s Books, displayed on a coloring mat, and served with crayons! This might be one of the most fun spots to celebrate Dry January in Los Angeles, and it will be available through March to match their Big Bar Book Club Menu. Dooley and the Snortsnoot is brought to life with Plaid Circus Kimono Dragon, Seedlip Garden, Lima Bean, baby spinach, and lemon, while Dragon’s Love Tacos is crafted from Optimist Cali Amaro, hibiscus, cilantro, lime, and spicy serrano peppers – just keep the real dragons out of the bar.
When to Visit: Big Bar is open from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. most days and as early as 9 a.m. on weekends.
El Torito (Various)
Nothing says Sunday Funday like an All-You-Can-Eat Mexican Buffet with Mariachi music humming in the background. But just because you’re not imbibing doesn’t mean you’re just surviving! The new Non-Alcoholic Margaritas at El Torito are made with Almave, a premium non-alcoholic blue agave spirit from Jalisco, Mexico, with an amber color. It’s spot on.
When to Visit: El Torito is open for All-You-Can-Eat Sunday Brunch from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at most locations. Happy Hour takes place daily in the cantina from 3 to 9 p.m.
Elephante (Santa Monica)
Adaptogen Margarita, anyone? Adaptogens are the next best thing to alcohol, because they tend to offer a natural “buzz” that comes from mushrooms or herbs. The Adaptogen Margarita at Elephante is made with Aplos Arise, lime, agave, orange, and lemon verbena. It’s one of seven cocktails on the non-alcoholic menu. The rooftop view of Santa Monica is also great for a natural high.
When to Visit: Elephante is open from 9 a.m. to midnight most days.
Chado (DTLA, Hollywood, Pasadena, South Bay)
Exchange the bar room for the tea room, with an experience at Chado, known for its thoughtfully priced High Teas and Online Marketplace. The Chado Afternoon Tea Service starts at $34.95 and includes a Sandwich Tier, a Plate of Scones, and a Pot of Tea. Try Evening Comfort for a relaxing blend of peppermint, lemon peel, and ginger root.
When to Visit: Hours vary by location but typically run from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. most days.
Additional Resources
Here’s Everything You Need to Succeed in Dry January
