Massachusetts: The First Non-Alcoholic Liquor Store Opened In Boston
About two weeks ago, a non-alcoholic liquor store opened in Boston. Specifically, on 18 Union Park Street. If you go there, you will find a unique orange logo with an emended orange slice. Welcome to Dray Bottle Shop.
“Dray exists to create an in-person retail destination for enjoying non-alcoholic beverages and much more (beyond the bottle),” they say. In a recent article by the Boston Globe, it was described how Dray has over 1,000 non-alcoholic drinks in their store. This includes an extensive selection of non-alcoholic beer, wine, and spirits. The mission behind this unique shop is also to give back.
“A portion of all profits from day one will go towards local community alcohol and drug recovery causes, through our non-profit affiliate Dray’s Better Days,” they explain.
Various brands have taken well to this concept. For example, Athletic Brewing (alcohol-free beer) had a tasting onsite last week. In addition, there was a non-alcoholic whiskey tasting held at Dray last night.
The Alcohol Free Movement
Over the summer, Forbes published a feature that explained why Gen-Z is drinking less alcohol. “The non-alcoholic category is expanding thanks to both higher demand and innovation within the space, with volumes expected to grow by 25% between 2022 and 2026,” Forbes said. In addition, the report explains that part of the reason for this is that Gen-Z has a strong focus on mental and physical health. Thus, a stronger demand for “NoLo” (short for no, low alcohol) beverages has increased.
The aforementioned Athletic Brewing Company is a great example of brands that are answering the call. The company, headquartered in Connecticut, has forged prominent partnerships over the past few years. This includes being an official brand partner of the Premier Lacrosse League, teaming with JetBlue Airlines to offer their non-alcoholic beers on flights, and teaming with artists like Trevor Hall.
As for the first zero-proof, non-alcoholic liquor store in Boston, they are currently open six days per week (excluding Monday) starting at 12pm. You can follow their Instagram to learn about upcoming events and specials.
Massachusetts: This South Shore Restaurant Has Turned Into A Holiday Wonderland (PHOTOS)
On the edge of Weymouth, less than a mile from the Hingham border, an Italian restaurant is already bringing the holiday joy. The Venetian is filled with holiday spirit. That is because this South Shore Massachusetts restaurant has completely turned into a holiday wonderland.
Located at 909 Broad St, The Venetian stands prominently upon this main road. Its natural red accented décor certainly made it an ideal spot to turn into a magically themed establishment this season.
On November 1, the restaurant opened its doors and welcomed guests to enjoy a meal seated within a Christmas extravaganza. From the front bar to the more private back room, each area is completely decorated in holiday cheer.
Here is what you will find. Over 5,000 ornaments hang from the ceiling. Fully lit Christmas trees, surrounded by presents, are in the corners of each room. Then, you will find snow-covered polar bear arrangements in the setup in the middle of a few rooms. In addition, the garland is delightfully wraps each beam and banister in sight. Piping into each room, you will hear classic holiday music to further set the tone.
This 2023 holiday season is the first time this popular restaurant is reshaping into what they are calling their “Holiday Pop-Up.” The interior decorations took three full days to set up. In total, 15 workers per day worked tirelessly to build, setup, and design this winter wonderland. The fact that the restaurant already had red-colored booths only enhances the look. Inspired by Rolfs in New York City, The Venetian has certainly set the table for their community to have a memorable holiday season.
Management at this fine-dining restaurant graciously opened their doors to us to attempt to capture the magical setting in photos. During our time, guests of all ages walked in for their reservations (which you will need). Each of them had a delighted reaction, usually followed by a “wow” and cheerful smile.
So, let’s open the wreath-bearing doors and take a sneak peek at this Massachusetts holiday wonderland restaurant.
Jeff Gorra is a Boston-based writer who has been with Beasley Media Group since the beginning of 2023. He writes about restaurants and food, as well as sports and rock music. His experience also includes show hosting and in-depth creative writing in rock and reggae dub music. Jeff’s an avid surfer, New York Giants, and Pearl Jam fan, however, if you make unforgettable pizza, he is sure to find you.
