Drink This Now: Zero-proof cocktails at Third Place Lounge

Zero-proof cocktails at Third Place Lounge // Photo by Sarah Sipple

Third Place Lounge–just steps from bustling Crossroads and classic Kauffman Center–has a lot to live up to with its chosen name. Being a third place requires a sense of welcome, utility, and comfort that most businesses can’t fulfill.

To me, Third Place Lounge is the spot for alcohol-free cocktails in downtown KC. It was a crowd favorite on my last birthday bar-hop. Despite my job title, I don’t drink as much as people may assume. Plus, many of my friends are sober. Therefore, Third Place Lounge was a must. (The rope swings and cozy furnishings don’t hurt either!)

The rest of my visits have been for relaxed catch-ups with friends. It is cute and comfy–like a boho-chic den at your cool cousin’s bungalow. I’m often asked for recommendations for a place to take a group, and the inclusive menu here keeps it at the top of my list.

Now, to the drinks. “No”groni, No Problems ($12) is my first pick. It’s got the herbal and bitter taste without the intensity–making it a quicker sipper than a standard negroni. My second choice is the Death Before Decaf ($12)–a non-alcoholic espresso martini. I’ve had this drink both ways at Third Place Lounge, and both are fabulous. The mocktail version actually froths up a little better. The simple syrup is made with brown sugar, resulting in a richer sweetness. 

Last but not least among my favorites here is the First-time Crush ($7). This simple drink uses non-alcoholic PBR and grapefruit syrup. It’s a light offering with a slight effervescence and gentle sweetness. This one is better to down in a hurry because it’s quickly altered when the ice starts to melt. It leans a little summery, but a light and bright bevvie is a welcome option amidst some drab winter feels.

If you prefer cocktails for more of a unique beverage than as a vehicle for alcohol, these are for you. This whole menu can make a Dry January or sober period feel more seamlessly social and interesting.

While many places now feature mocktails, it’s still rare to find a spot with equal n/a options to standard cocktails. The thoughtful menu establishes Third Place Lounge as an inclusive spot, but the welcoming staff, comfortable atmosphere, and fun weekly events solidify it as a true third space.

Third Place Lounge is located at 1744 Broadway Blvd, Kansas City, MO 64108.