www.montereycountynow.com JANUARY 2-8, 2025 MONTEREY COUNTY WEEKLY 33 CHILL If there is one theme that has become synonymous with the post-holiday season, it is “Dry January.” The concept needs little introduction. Each year, some people embrace the desire to cut back on alcohol, perhaps after an indulgent holiday marathon. Fortunately for those seeking moderation, there are solid options out there that range from botanical blends to adaptogenic elixirs and fruity to herbaceous concoctions. The Monterey Beach Hotel’s lobby bar is a prime spot where the drinks— and the vibes—hit just right. Their zero-proof cocktails lean into bright, fruit-forward flavors, with the Pear & Ginger Spritz standing out. It’s a refreshing drink with poached pear, complemented by crushed fresh organic strawberries to finish. Fresh ginger gives it a subtle kick, elevated with an edible pansy flower garnish and enjoyed with a view of the Monterey Bay and sweeping shoreline. For those looking for more of a sipper, give the “Forest Bath” at Pearl Hour a try. It’s a mocktail that truly lives up to its name, delivering an earthy, aromatic experience with a rush of sage, yarrow, lemon verbena and cedar over the tongue. Shaken and served over a whiskey cube, it offers a bold, bitter tonic that feels like a walk through the woods. From forest-inspired sips to fruity refreshers, these non-alcoholic beverages can be just as indulgent—minus the buzz. Monterey Beach Hotel, 2600 Sand Dunes Drive, Monterey, 394-3321, montereybeach. com; Pearl Hour, 214 Lighthouse Ave., Monterey, 657-9447, pearlhour.com. Mock Draft As Dry January begins for some, bars emphasize non-alcoholic creativity. By Katie Rodriguez SEND IDEAS TO: chill@montereycountynow.com KATIE RODRIGUEZ Voted BEST Appetizer/Small Plates ’24 VALIDATED PARKING 136 OLIVIER ST. MONTEREY NEAR OLD FISHERMAN’S WHARF (831) 644-9007 WWW.BENIHANA.COM OPEN DAILY FOR LUNCH AND DINNER EXPERIENCE THE ORIGINAL ♦ 3 Card Poker ♠ Century 21st No Bust Black Jack ♣ Texas Hold’em ♥ Baccarat FULL BAR! BLACKJACK BONUS POINTS PAYS UP TO $20,000 SMALL TOWN BIG PAYOUTS! 1-800-Gambler • Gega-003846, Gega-Gega-003703, Gega-000889 Gega-000891 Gega-002838 The Marina Club Casino ensures the safety and security of all guests and team members at all times, while providing exceptional service. 204 Carmel Ave. Marina 831-384-0925 casinomonterey.com ♠ ♣ ♥ ♦ Just minutes from Downtown Monterey Where Monterey Comes To Play
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