The new Punch Bowl Social in Ballston Quarter mall was designed to cater to millennials (hello photo booths, corn hole, and karaoke). Now they’re jumping on the “sober-curious” trend with a $19 zero-proof punch bowl.
The punch-less concoction is made with tropical-spice infused coconut water, lemon juice, mint syrup, aquafaba (the fancy name for the liquid from a can of chickpeas), and star anise. Like it’s alcoholic counterparts, it’s meant to be shared by two-to-three people—and costs nearly as much as a boozy punch.
Bartender Anna Patch says the drink was introduced as an option for patrons of all ages, fitting for the game-filled complex, as well an option for adults who’re abstaining. It’s part of the chain’s alcohol-free “Built and Mixed Without” menu. Patch says the high price tag reflects the ingredients and their prep time (i.e. infused water, homemade mint syrup). On a busy night, the bar will sell upwards of ten of the bowls, virgin and non. Patch says customers often ask to mix in vodka or rum, but at $7.50 per shot, the drink could set you back $42.
So is it worth the heavy price tag? An office taste test yielded mixed results. At best, it was deemed “very star anise-forward,” “thankfully not sweet,” and “thoughtful and complex.” At worst, it reminded one taste-tester of “aged, homemade Gatorade.” Many commented the star anise flavor was too overpowering for the drink to be considered tropical or kid-friendly.
Either way, it stands as the most expensive non-alcoholic cocktail we’ve found around DC (and there are some pretty expensive mocktails). Barmini clocks in close behind with an $18 concoction.
Kalina Newman is an editorial fellow for Washingtonian. Previously, she covered metro news for the Boston Globe. Her work has appeared in ARLnow, DCist, and the Washington City Paper. Kalina graduated from Boston University in 2019 with a degree in journalism.
