Mocktail Catering NYC

Mocktail Catering

Once considered a novelty, mocktails have emerged as an essential element in today’s luxury event landscape. In a city like New York—where refinement and reinvention go hand-in-hand—the demand for alcohol-free sophistication is growing faster than ever. Whether it’s a corporate function, private celebration, or curated social gathering, hosts are embracing mocktail catering not as a substitute, but as an elevated experience of its own.

At Gotham Catering And Events, our philosophy is rooted in the idea that every guest deserves an exquisite drink in hand—regardless of its alcohol content. With a commitment to personalized service and detail-driven design, we’ve reimagined what a zero-proof beverage experience can look like. What sets Gotham apart is not only our ability to execute flawless events, but our commitment to integrating culinary artistry with meaningful hospitality. Our mocktail catering services are fully tailored—down to the ingredients, styling, and service flow—to reflect the client’s vision.

We begin every event with a consultation, exploring your theme, guest profile, and goals. From there, we design an interactive bar setup that aligns with your aesthetic, whether it’s modern minimalism or lush maximalism. Our beverage team then crafts a menu of signature mocktails, each made from seasonal, locally sourced ingredients that reflect New York’s vibrant palate.

MOCKTAIL CATERING MENU

Zero-Proof Sophistication for Every Occasion

MENU OVERVIEW

At Gotham Catering and Events, we believe that mocktail service is an art form. Our carefully curated selection of alcohol-free beverages showcases seasonal ingredients, innovative flavor combinations, and meticulous presentation. Each signature mocktail is designed to elevate your event while accommodating all of your guests with elegance and intention.

All mocktails are crafted fresh to order using premium spirits alternatives, house-made syrups, fresh citrus, herbs, and locally sourced ingredients.

SIGNATURE MOCKTAILS

GARDEN REVERIE
A celebration of spring. Muddled cucumber, fresh basil, delicate floral notes of elderflower, fresh lemon juice, and a touch of honey syrup. Served over premium ice with a basil leaf garnish and edible flowers.
Flavor Profile: Fresh, herbaceous, subtly sweet

EMBER & ROSE
Inspired by New York’s autumn palette. Spiced apple cider reduction, fresh rosemary infusion, cranberry juice, fresh ginger, and a hint of cardamom. Served warm or over ice with a cinnamon stick and dried cranberry.
Flavor Profile: Warm spice, tart, aromatic

CORAL SUNSET
A vibrant tribute to the city’s skyline. Fresh blood orange juice, pomegranate reduction, muddled pink peppercorn, fresh lime, and house-made ginger syrup. Served over ice with a blood orange wheel and peppercorn garnish.
Flavor Profile: Citrus-forward, floral spice, balanced tartness

MIDNIGHT GARDEN
Dark, sophisticated, and mysterious. Activated charcoal infused with butterfly pea flower (color-changing ingredient), fresh lemon juice, house-made lavender syrup, and a touch of orange bitters alternative. Served over ice with a lemon twist and edible silver leaf.
Flavor Profile: Floral, citrus, visually stunning

VERDE SERENITY
A meditation in a glass. Pressed green juice (celery, green apple, ginger), fresh lime juice, house-made matcha syrup, and a whisper of coconut cream. Served over ice with a thin apple slice and microgreens.
Flavor Profile: Green, earthy, creamy undertones

CITRUS JUBILEE
Bright and joyful. Fresh Meyer lemon juice, fresh grapefruit juice, sparkling yuzu, house-made vanilla bean syrup, and a touch of orange zest. Served over ice with a grapefruit segment and lemon wheel.
Flavor Profile: Bright citrus, creamy vanilla, festive

NOBLE SPICE
Warm and inviting. House-made turmeric-ginger reduction, fresh orange juice, coconut milk, and a hint of black cardamom. Served hot or cold with a turmeric dusting and star anise.
Flavor Profile: Golden spice, warming, subtly sweet

WOODLAND BERRY
Luxurious and deep. Muddled blackberries and raspberries, fresh lemon juice, house-made black walnut syrup, activated charcoal, and a touch of thyme. Served over ice with fresh berries and a thyme sprig.
Flavor Profile: Berry-rich, herbal, earthy complexity

TROPICAL PARADISE
Exotic and celebratory. Fresh passion fruit puree, coconut water, fresh lime juice, pineapple juice, and a touch of turmeric. Served over ice with a pineapple wedge and edible orchid.
Flavor Profile: Tropical, bright, creamy undertones

POMEGRANATE NOIR
Sophisticated and striking. Pomegranate juice reduction, fresh pomegranate seeds, house-made pomegranate-balsamic syrup, fresh lime juice, and a touch of cinnamon. Served over ice with pomegranate seeds and a cinnamon stick.
Flavor Profile: Tart, sweet, spiced

CUSTOMIZABLE MOCKTAIL EXPERIENCE

We offer fully customizable mocktail menus tailored to your event theme, color palette, and guest preferences. Our beverage team can work with you to:

• Create signature mocktails featuring your brand colors or event theme
• Develop menus incorporating your preferred flavor profiles (fruity, herbal, floral, spiced, etc.)
• Incorporate dietary restrictions (sugar-free, vegan, gluten-free, nut-free options available)
• Design interactive bartender-prepared experiences where guests customize their drinks
• Create mocktail pairings to complement your culinary menu

INTERACTIVE BAR SETUPS

CLASSIC ELEGANCE
Sleek bar counters with professional bartenders. Guests approach the bar to order from our menu or request custom combinations. Includes premium glassware, fresh herb and citrus garnish stations, and artfully displayed ingredient selections. Professional bartenders ensure consistent quality and engaging service.

SELF-SERVE STATION
Curated beverage display featuring pre-batched mocktails in elegant dispensers, fresh juices, house-made syrups, premium ice, and a full garnish station. Allows guests autonomy while maintaining quality. Perfect for casual celebrations or high-volume events.

MARKET-STYLE BAR
An immersive experience featuring multiple drink stations organized by flavor profile: Citrus Corner, Herb Haven, Berry Bliss, and Spice Station. Guests can explore combinations and interact with bartenders who guide them through flavor pairings. Includes beautiful ingredient displays, custom signage, and curated garnish presentations.

EXPERIENTIAL MOCKTAIL LAB
Our most elevated offering. A theatrical bar experience where guests watch bartenders craft their mocktails using advanced techniques: molecular gastronomy, smoking, layering, and house-made ingredients prepared on-site. Includes educational elements about ingredient sourcing and flavor development.

MOBILE COCKTAIL SERVICE
Roaming servers circulate with pre-prepared signature mocktails on trays, ensuring guests never need to approach the bar. Includes a secondary self-serve station for guests who prefer to help themselves.

SEASONAL COLLECTIONS

SPRING AWAKENING (March – May)
Garden Reverie, Verde Serenity, Citrus Jubilee, Fresh Herb Infusions

SUMMER ESCAPE (June – August)
Tropical Paradise, Coral Sunset, Citrus Jubilee, Refreshing Berry Blends

AUTUMN ELEGANCE (September – November)
Ember & Rose, Noble Spice, Woodland Berry, Spiced Apple Options

WINTER SOPHISTICATION (December – February)
Midnight Garden, Pomegranate Noir, Noble Spice, Warming Winter Blends

PREMIUM ADD-ONS

HOUSE-MADE SYRUPS & REDUCTIONS
Lavender, vanilla bean, ginger, pomegranate-balsamic, turmeric-ginger, honey, cardamom-rose, black walnut

SPECIALTY GARNISHES & EDIBLES
Edible flowers, gold and silver leaf, activated charcoal, freeze-dried fruits, candied citrus, microgreens, herb infusions

PREMIUM GLASSWARE OPTIONS
Crystal coupes, artisan glass vessels, color-coordinated stemware to match your event theme

CUSTOM SIGNAGE & MENU CARDS
Calligraphy, branded materials, interactive flavor wheels, ingredient sourcing information cards

SPECIALTY ICE
Clear ice blocks, spheres, flavored ice cubes, color-coordinated ice presentations

SERVICE SPECIFICATIONS

BARTENDER-PREPARED SERVICE
One bartender per 75 guests for mixed bar service
One bartender per 100 guests for mocktail bar service
Bartenders provided in our classic uniform: black trousers, white shirt, black vest, professional apron

GLASSWARE & SERVICEWARE
Premium glassware options: coupes, rocks glasses, highballs, specialty vessels
Cocktail napkins, stirrers, drink picks, and professional bar tools included
Premium presentation with attention to detail and brand consistency

DURATION & FLOW
Minimum 2-hour service
Flexible service models: pre-event reception, integrated bar throughout event, post-dinner celebration
Seamless transitions between mocktail service and other beverages

DIETARY ACCOMMODATIONS

All mocktails can be customized to meet dietary needs:

• Sugar-Free Options: Stevia, erythritol, or monk fruit sweeteners available
• Vegan: All beverages available in fully plant-based format
• Gluten-Free: All mocktails naturally gluten-free; verified ingredient sourcing
• Nut-Free: Clearly marked; alternative nut-free syrups available
• Low-Calorie Options: Nutrient-dense, lower-sugar preparations

Please indicate any dietary restrictions during the planning consultation.

MOCKTAIL MENU PRICING

SIGNATURE MOCKTAILS
Per person, per drink: $16 – $22
(Pricing varies based on ingredient complexity, seasonal availability, and preparation method)

INTERACTIVE SELF-SERVE STATION
Per person: $14 – $18
(Includes 2-hour access to pre-batched mocktails and garnish stations)

PREMIUM BARTENDER SERVICE
Per person, per drink: $18 – $25
(Includes bartender labor, premium glassware, specialized presentations)

EXPERIENTIAL MOCKTAIL LAB
Per person, per drink: $25 – $35
(Includes advanced techniques, specialty presentations, elevated service experience)

CUSTOMIZABLE MENU PACKAGES
Starting at $800 for events of 25 guests
Volume pricing available for events of 100+ guests

BEVERAGE LABOR
Bartender: $60 – $95 per hour
Bar Manager: $100 per hour
Bartender Minimum: 2 hours per event

Crafting the Perfect Zero-Proof Menu

Behind every memorable mocktail is a foundation of fresh, intentional ingredients. At Gotham, our menus focus on small-batch syrups, herb infusions, house-made bitters, and hand-pressed juices. We emphasize complexity—each drink is layered, aromatic, and distinctly elevated.

It’s not just about mixing juices. Our team applies the same standards of culinary technique used in our full-service catering. That means ice clarity, garnish precision, and flavor structure are all taken seriously. For those interested in learning more about foundational methods, our guide on basic drink-making techniques offers a look behind the scenes.

We also understand that some clients are curious about adapting their existing event menus with alcohol-free alternatives. For those exploring alternatives to traditional spirits, we invite you to explore our in-depth guide to non-alcoholic liquor alternatives—crafted with the same precision and aesthetic flair.

Presentation The Most Crucial Detail

Any seasoned New Yorker knows: looks matter. The way a mocktail is served—its glassware, garnish, and even tray presentation—speaks volumes about the tone of your event. At Gotham, our approach to presentation reflects our dedication to seamless, design-forward hospitality.

Our team coordinates with your event planner or stylist to align the mocktail service with the overall design. Whether that’s color palettes that match floral installations or etched glassware with your brand’s logo, every element is considered. Our selection of elegant glassware and presentation ensures the visual experience matches the sophistication of the flavors.

When desired, we also create signature drinks named after your company, theme, or honoree—adding a personal touch that always resonates with guests.

Events That Shine with Mocktail Service

Mocktail catering isn’t simply a wellness accommodation—it’s a design-forward decision that enhances the experience of every guest. In our work across New York City’s most prestigious venues, we’ve seen mocktail bars elevate a variety of events. Corporate clients often request them for team-building events, brand activations, and product launches, where clarity and engagement are key. Social events like baby showers, bar mitzvahs, and art openings also benefit from the inclusive nature of a non-alcoholic offering.

The key is integration. At Gotham, we ensure that the mocktail bar complements your full event narrative. Our team can work with your planner to incorporate the bar into the larger theme—whether that’s a botanical concept, a fashion-forward launch, or an urban minimalist vibe. To get a sense of how this service works within a full-scale event, we invite you to explore our capabilities in luxury bar catering in NYC.

Tools, Setup, and Mocktail Bar Logistics

Building a mocktail experience that resonates with guests requires more than good recipes. It begins with strategic planning around space, tools, and flow. Gotham provides a full suite of bar setup options—from sleek mirrored bars to rustic carts, each chosen to reflect your vision and venue layout.

We customize every detail, from signage and straws to garnish trays and prep stations. Hosts seeking to recreate a similar experience at home or off-site may benefit from our home mocktail bar equipment guide, which outlines everything needed for an elevated non-alcoholic setup.

Beyond equipment, stock matters. A well-balanced mocktail bar requires more than club soda and fruit. For a curated approach to ingredients, our list of essential mocktail bar stock offers a breakdown of what’s needed to serve both complexity and variety.

Guest Count, Staffing, and Service Flow

Every well-run bar—mocktail or otherwise—depends on intelligent planning. At Gotham, we align our staffing strategy with your guest count, flow, and event duration. For most gatherings, we recommend one bartender per 50 guests to ensure consistent service without bottlenecks. Depending on the style of your event, this ratio may vary, and we always assess this during the planning phase.

Accurately planning drink quantities is equally important. Our guide to calculating mocktail servings per guest provides insights into portioning, consumption patterns, and backup planning.

Branding, Customization, and Gotham’s Signature Touch

What makes Gotham Catering And Events different isn’t just our menus—it’s how we make the experience personal. From etched ice cubes to color-matched garnishes, our team weaves your story into every glass. For brand activations or high-profile gatherings, we offer co-branded drink menus and immersive tasting stations that double as event experiences.

When alcohol is not part of the equation, execution and presentation become even more essential. Our internal policies for serving any beverage, including mocktails, meet the highest standards. Learn more about our attention to compliance and guest safety in our beverage service policies.

For clients seeking inspiration on the broader world of beverages, you might find it worthwhile to explore how we approach curated non-alcoholic wine options or our creative take on exploring beer alternatives. These offerings show how deeply we consider every drink—not just what’s poured, but how it’s perceived and remembered.

Lastly, it’s essential to communicate clearly at the bar. If your event includes a range of beverages, clarity of terms matters. Guests appreciate knowing what they’re being served, and our breakdown of mocktail bar terminology ensures everything is labeled, styled, and served with elegance.