Have you visited Portland’s first zero proof (no alcohol) cocktail bar Suckerpunch? Whether you are recovering, have those you care about who are, are mocktail curious, or choose for whatever reason to abstain from alcohol, this pop-up space offers the chic vibes of cocktail culture and care and craft of mixology and innovative drinks without the effects of booze.
Image above courtesy of Frances Dyer Public Relations, photo by Carly Diaz
A visit to Suckerpunch requires a prepaid reservation and nets you a flight of three complex creative content cocktails that will change based on seasonal inspiration, and bar snacks. This visit is from their first month open in February, but a patio is in the works for outdoor space in the spring.
Currently there are 2 seatings an evening – 6pm or 8pm – and everyone who will enjoy must be 18 or older, for an initial speakeasy feel. It seems like there has been some demand for a more family-friendly time, which Suckerpunch is also looking into.
Images above courtesy of Frances Dyer Public Relations, photo by Carly Diaz
The location here at the Goat Blocks (1030 SE Belmont St.) means free parking is available – head up the stairs to the 2nd floor to look for the S marking the entrance. Suckerpunch is opening in this space as a pop-up location while they are looking for a more permanent location. This location, which used to be a gym, has no kitchen so do not expect a meal here, only snacks – what the snacks may be I’m not sure. During my visit the beverages proceeded towards sweeter at the end, so I finished up with a cheesecake (vegan options are also available) but that probably all depends on what pairs well with the drinks in the flight. 
Here’s a look at the beverages from their opening menu-
Straight From the Fire
Roasted corn tea, smoked maple syrup, cooked grape must, The Bitter Housewife bull run barrel aged bitters, fresh sage, orange peel. This drink was reminiscent of having a whiskey based drink with the slight smokiness and nuttiness.
Island Time
Montinore Estate Verjus, Som turmeric drinking vinegar, Sanbitter, yuzu, lime, galangal, shiso. With a fun presentation with the pour counterside of the red Sanbiter, this tropical tart drink was pleasing with stronger flavors then the subtleness of the earlier drink.
Thank You For Being a Friend
Steven Smith Lord Bergamot tea, orgeat, date, Meyer lemon, nutmeg, aquafaba. The aquafaba here subbing for egg white is something I would enjoy with any cocktail to provide the hint of richness and silky texture – not as creamy as from eggs but just as effective in adding that extra dimension to a cocktail.
There is also an opportunity in their shop space to purchase alcohol-free spirits and mixers. Before they opened the zero proof bar pop up, Suckerpunch offered zero proof cocktail kits, and I’m looking forward to when they offer those again after the initial time standing the bar up. Follow them by signing up for their mailing list or on Instagram to stay in the loop of the latest developments and updates to the menu.
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