As the new year rolls in with resolutions and fresh starts, the latest trend sweeping the nation's bars is ironically, not about drinking—at least not in the traditional sense. Welcome to "Dry January," a growing movement where abstaining from alcohol for the first month of the year is not just a personal choice but a public celebration.
What is 'Dry January'?
Originating from Alcohol Change UK in 2012, Dry January has evolved into a global phenomenon. Harvard Men's Health Watch's Executive Editor, Matthew Solan, notes that taking a month off from alcohol can kickstart a healthier lifestyle. Research in BMJ Open shows benefits like improved sleep, more energy, weight loss, and lowered blood pressure and cholesterol levels. For those who traditionally welcome the new year with a bubbly glass, this is a chance to reset with clear heads and healthier bodies.
Bohemien Bar: Leading the Dry Revolution
In the heart of Brooklyn Heights, Bohemien Bar, a stylish bar and listening room, is redefining January's social scene with its unique non-alcoholic cocktails. Gone are the days of eggnog-induced drowsiness. In their place? A roster of creative mocktails, like the hibiscus-kissed 'Roselle' and the fennel-infused 'Welcome to Paradise'.
The Masters Behind the Mocktails
The brains behind this innovative concept are the dynamic husband-and-wife duo, Tarek Debira and Patricia Ageheim. With illustrious stints at global culinary hotspots like Hotel Costes and Nobu London, they bring a world of flavor to Bohemien Bar. Their other ventures, Le Boudoir and Chez Moi, have already made waves in Brooklyn Heights. But it's Bohemien Bar, with its blend of high-fidelity music and artful drinks, that stands out this Dry January.
A Feast for the Senses
At Bohemien Bar, it's not just about what's in your glass. The listening room, decked out with custom speakers from audio wizards Perry Brandston and Pete Raho, offers a crisp, immersive sonic experience. And let's not forget the food—Executive Chef Steven Barrantes, a veteran of Restaurant Daniel, has crafted a menu to complement the mocktails, with offerings from Duck Flatbread to Crème Brulée Cheesecake.
Cocktails as Art
The cocktail menu at Bohemien Bar is an intoxicating array of flavors for those who prefer their drinks with a spirited kick. Immerse yourself in the vibrant world of cocktails like the Birdy Num Num, a gin-infused delight artfully presented in a whimsical bird-shaped glass, or indulge in the luxurious Felix Felicis, a harmonious blend of sherry and green Chartreuse, elegantly garnished with 24-karat gold flakes. Each drink is not just a beverage but a work of art, perfectly embodying the bar's commitment to creativity and flair.
A Design to Remember
The space, inspired by mid-century Scandinavian design, features a horseshoe bar and a cozy, acoustic-friendly atmosphere. The attention to detail, from the levitated rattan shelves to the greenery-adorned interiors, makes Bohemien Bar a haven for those seeking a memorable night out—sans the alcohol.
The Verdict
Dry January might have started as a health trend, but at Bohemien Bar, it's a celebration of taste, art, and music. Whether you're a committed teetotaler or just curious, this Brooklyn hotspot offers a tantalizing glimpse into a world where the fun doesn't depend on the alcohol content. So, raise your mocktail glass and toast to a new year of health, flavor, and unforgettable nights at Bohemien Bar.
The Chef Global Restaurant and Chef Sentiment Ratings plus Critic Reviews from our industry-leading Restaurant Critic - Paul Barron.