SALT LAKE CITY – In a city known for its vibrant nightlife, a new trend is emerging that champions community and inclusivity without the need for alcohol. 1833 Craft, a zero-alcohol cocktail bar, is redefining the way residents and visitors enjoy a night out. Co-owned by siblings Matthew and Kelly LaPlante, the establishment offers a unique experience where the art of mixology is preserved, but the spirits are not. Located in a beautifully renovated 100-year-old home at 1398 S. 1100 East, 1833 Craft invites everyone to enjoy crafted beverages that are as sophisticated as traditional cocktails, but completely alcohol-free. Matthew LaPlante, the lead bartender and co-owner, has a personal connection to the concept. Seven years ago, he made the decision to stop drinking, yet he found himself missing the social atmosphere of bars. "We'd go out and the non-alcoholic cocktails on the menu, the mocktails, were just terrible. They just were not very exciting. They always left me disappointed," he recalled. Frustrated by the lack of appealing options, Matthew began experimenting with his own recipes. The idea took off when he shared it with his sister, Kelly. "Three days later, she called me up and said, 'We're starting a bar,'" Matthew explained. This rapid decision-making led to the transformation of their family home into a chic yet welcoming bar space. Kelly, who has a background in design, was instrumental in creating an environment that feels authentic to bar culture. "It’s been really important for me to actually make it feel like an environment where people can feel uninhibited, feel like they are in a proper bar," she said, emphasizing the need for a space that breaks the stigma around sober living. The bar’s name, 1833 Craft, pays homage to the year their house was built, and the decor reflects a blend of historical charm and modern sophistication. Upon entering, guests are greeted by a warm atmosphere filled with soft lighting and comfortable seating arrangements, reminiscent of a traditional cocktail bar. This thoughtful design ethos encourages patrons to relax and enjoy their drinks without feeling judged. One of the standout features of 1833 Craft is its impressive menu of zero-proof cocktails, which incorporate alternative spirits that closely mimic traditional liquors. Matthew highlighted the quality of some of these substitutes, particularly the gin. “The gin in particular is really spot-on. Sometimes we’ll give people a gin-based drink and they’ll be like, ‘Wait, are you sure there’s not alcohol in it?’” he shared. This attention to detail ensures that even those who regularly consume alcohol can find enjoyment in the offerings at 1833 Craft. In addition to gin, the bar utilizes a variety of whiskey alternatives and other non-alcoholic spirits that serve their intended purpose in cocktails, creating a diverse drink menu that caters to all tastes. The absence of alcohol not only widens the customer base but also eliminates the need for ID checks, making it a more welcoming environment for everyone. Kelly noted, “It’s really about creating a space where people can come together, whether they choose to drink or not.” The bar is currently open on Thursdays and Fridays from 5 to 10 p.m., and the LaPlante siblings have plans for future expansions. They hope to increase operating hours and host various events that can educate the community about sober living and the art of mocktail crafting. “I think it’s unfolding in this very cool, organic way,” Kelly said, reflecting on the growth and acceptance of their vision. In a time where more individuals are prioritizing health and wellness, 1833 Craft stands out as a beacon for those seeking a nightlife experience that doesn’t revolve around alcohol. The bar serves not only as a place to enjoy drinks but as a community hub where individuals can connect, share stories, and enjoy each other’s company without the pressure of alcohol consumption. As society continues to evolve, establishments like 1833 Craft are leading the charge in redefining what it means to enjoy a night out, ensuring that everyone feels included in the celebration, regardless of their drinking preferences. With the rise of the sober-curious movement, bars like 1833 Craft are not just filling a niche but are paving the way for a new cultural shift in nightlife. As they continue to build their brand and expand their offerings, the LaPlante siblings are not just creating a bar; they are fostering a community of inclusivity and acceptance in Salt Lake City’s ever-evolving social landscape.