Mocktail Hour: Zero-Proof Coffee Cocktails for Patio Nights

There’s something about summer evenings—the warm air, soft light, and that unspoken invitation to linger just a little longer. While cocktails are a popular choice for winding down, more and more people are reaching for something just as special—but without the alcohol.

Enter: the coffee mocktail. Creative, refreshing, and a little unexpected, these zero-proof drinks are perfect for sipping on the patio, whether you’re hanging out with friends, savoring a solo evening, or hosting an at-home happy hour.

Here’s how you can embrace this trend—and a few ideas to inspire your own mocktail hour:

1. Espresso Tonic

A modern classic that’s surprisingly simple:

✨ Recipe:

  • 1 shot fresh espresso

  • Tonic water

  • Ice

  • Optional: sprig of rosemary or orange twist for garnish

Pour your espresso over ice, top with tonic, and give it a gentle stir. Garnish with fresh herbs or citrus for an aromatic finish. The bitter coffee and crisp tonic make this a perfect patio sipper.

2. Vanilla-Mint Cold Brew Julep

A fun twist on the Southern classic—no bourbon needed.

✨ Recipe:

  • 4 oz cold brew

  • ½ oz vanilla syrup (homemade or store-bought)

  • Fresh mint leaves

  • Crushed ice

Muddle mint leaves with the syrup at the bottom of a glass. Add crushed ice and pour in cold brew. Garnish with a mint bouquet. Light, cool, and perfect for sipping under the stars.

3. Orange Blossom Americano Fizz

A floral, citrusy riff on a sparkling Americano.

✨ Recipe:

  • 1 shot espresso

  • Sparkling water

  • 2-3 drops orange blossom water

  • Orange peel for garnish

  • Ice

Pour espresso over ice, add orange blossom water, top with sparkling water, and garnish with a peel. A little floral, a little zesty, and very refreshing.

4. Coffee Spritz

Think of it as a cousin to the beloved Aperol spritz—bright and effervescent.

✨ Recipe:

  • 3 oz cold brew

  • 2 oz orange juice

  • Sparkling water

  • Orange slice for garnish

  • Ice

Build over ice: cold brew, orange juice, and top with sparkling water. It’s a beautiful layered drink that’s low-effort but looks (and tastes) festive.

5. Coconut Cold Brew Cooler

Creamy, tropical, and made for warm summer nights.

✨ Recipe:

  • 4 oz cold brew

  • 2 oz coconut water

  • Splash of coconut milk or cream

  • Ice

Combine cold brew and coconut water over ice, add a splash of coconut milk, and stir. Garnish with toasted coconut flakes if you’re feeling extra.

Why Coffee Mocktails?

Zero-proof coffee cocktails are more than just a trend—they’re a way to enjoy the ritual of a great drink, without the alcohol. Whether you’re cutting back, taking a night off, or simply looking for something new, these drinks bring a little creativity to your evening routine.

Plus, they’re endlessly adaptable: you can use your favorite cold brew, experiment with different syrups, or add sparkling elements to keep things fresh.

So This Summer…

Romanticize your evenings. Slow down, grab a seat on the patio (ours or yours), and sip something beautiful. Whether you’re trying out a new recipe at home or ordering a creative mocktail at Second Best Coffee, there’s no wrong way to enjoy a zero-proof night.

Who says coffee is only for the morning?

Courtnie Rosscoffee mocktails, summer nights, coffee cocktails