SOBAR: Kelowna’s First Alcohol-Free Bar

Kelowna, B.C., is about to get a taste of something new and exciting – an alcohol-free bar! Yep, you read that right. SOBAR, the brainchild of Alex Viol and the founders of Somm Zero, is all set to open its doors and offer a bar-like experience without the booze. From the ambiance to the music, and even the wine bar lighting and glasses, SOBAR promises to bring all the good stuff from a bar, minus the alcohol that can put a damper on the mood.

With the Canadian Centre on Substance Use and Addiction warning about the risks of alcohol consumption and more people opting for healthier choices, the demand for alcohol-free experiences is on the rise. However, many miss the pleasure of hanging out at a swanky wine bar or cocktail lounge. This is where SOBAR steps in, aiming to fill that space and cater to those looking for a booze-free social scene.

Located on Bernard Avenue, SOBAR will be open from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m., offering a welcoming environment for everyone. Alex Viol, a hospitality industry professional, is excited to introduce quality alcohol-free beverages that are not widely available locally. He believes that providing excellent service and choices for guests, regardless of their preference, is the key to great hospitality.

The highlight of SOBAR is its selection of non-alcoholic wines, carefully curated to offer a delightful experience. Viol takes pride in showcasing wines with a rich story, from the vineyards to the wine-making process. While most of the wines are from abroad, there’s also a local winery in Summerland producing non-alcoholic wines, which has impressed Viol. He hopes to see more local wineries exploring this category in the future.

The project is a collaboration with Just Peachy, owned by Hannah Spinelli, who is thrilled to bring a menu of healthy food and beverages to downtown Kelowna. Together, they aim to create a space where wellness doesn’t have to end when the sun goes down.

SOBAR is all set to launch on December 1, open from Wednesday to Sunday evenings. It’s a new and exciting addition to Kelowna’s social scene, offering a fresh and inclusive experience for those choosing a sober lifestyle.