Mindful Drinking at The Shelborne By Proper

Mindful drinking in Miami Beach reflects a broader cultural shift toward balance, intention, and wellbeing. As interest in alcohol-free and low-ABV beverages continues to grow, hospitality has begun to rethink how flavor, ritual, and social connection can exist without excess.

This evolution has been widely noted across the food and beverage landscape. Recent coverage in The New York Times points to changing consumer behavior, with growing interest in alternatives to traditional alcoholic drinks as people explore new ways to socialize, unwind, and mark occasion without centering alcohol. Alongside this shift, non-alcoholic clubs and alcohol-free social spaces have emerged in cities around the world, creating environments where connection and atmosphere take precedence over what’s in the glass.

At The Shelborne By Proper, mindful drinking is approached as an extension of the property’s wellness-forward philosophy. Across Pauline, Little Torch, and The Bar, alcohol-free cocktails are crafted with the same attention to balance, texture, and creativity as traditional cocktails. From tropical and creamy to warm and spiced, each drink is designed to engage the senses while supporting a more considered way of enjoying time on property.

Rather than positioning alcohol-free cocktails as a substitute, The Shelborne treats them as a meaningful part of the culinary and beverage experience, offering guests choice without compromise.

As the conversation around mindful drinking continues to evolve, it has become an important area of focus for those shaping the future of hospitality.

Laura Kelton, Portfolio Manager at Lowder-Tascarella Hospitality (LTH), plays a central role in guiding the culinary and beverage vision across Proper properties. Her work focuses on building programs that balance creativity, quality, and guest experience, while responding thoughtfully to how tastes and expectations are changing.

“Mindful drinking options are really an extension of hospitality today. Whether someone is sober, sober-curious, or simply not interested in drinking the way they used to, it doesn’t mean they want to shy away from social spaces or delicious drinks. It’s our job, and honestly our joy, to keep evolving the spectrum of options available to travelers and guests while they’re with us. That means mindful options, whether they’re alcohol-free, adaptogenic, or lower-ABV, have to be just as flavorful and feel just as considered as crafted cocktails and wines. The mindful drinking movement is opening the door to more inclusivity and more creativity for all of us.”

Her perspective reflects a broader approach within Proper’s food and beverage strategy, where alcohol-free offerings are developed alongside traditional cocktails as an integral part of the program

Tropical and Spiced Expressions

At Pauline, alcohol-free cocktails are layered, expressive, and rooted in culinary craft. The menu balances brightness with warmth, offering drinks that feel both comforting and transportive.

Take It Easy

A tropical and creamy blend of coconut, lychee, yuzu, and a touch of lime. Smooth, refreshing, and effortlessly balanced.

An Apple a Day

Warm and aromatic with spiced apple syrup, citrus brightness, and a subtle note of plum bitters. Comforting, layered, and gently effervescent.

Explore Pauline’s full menu here.

Crisp, Herbal, and Refined

The Bar approaches alcohol-free cocktails with restraint and clarity, focusing on clean structure and botanical complexity.

Self Control

A crisp tonic-style cocktail with apple, citrus, celery, and aromatic botanicals. Light, refreshing, and elegantly composed.

Discover The Bar’s cocktail offerings.

Vibrant Tropical Flavors

At Little Torch, vibrant tropical flavors meet refined technique. These alcohol-free cocktails are bright, smooth, and designed to feel indulgent without excess.

Tropical Ease

A tropical blend of pineapple, coconut, orgeat, and lime, finished with a silky foam. Balanced, expressive, and fully satisfying. Created in partnership with Aplos.

See Little Torch’s full menu.

Alcohol-Free Staples Beyond January

Several alcohol-free cocktails remain available year-round, offering thoughtful options regardless of the season.

Little Torch
Golden Milk Punch:
Chai, lemon, ginger, vanilla, coconut, turmeric. Warm, spiced, and complex.

The Bar
Cloud Walker:
Hibiscus, dragon fruit, cinnamon, lemon, soda. Light, unexpected, and dynamic.

Pauline
Carrot Cooler:
Carrot, mango, bergamot, lime, ginger. Bright, playful, and subtly layered.

A Different Approach to Dry January

Dry January has evolved beyond abstention into an exploration of flavor, balance, and intention. Alcohol-free cocktails allow ingredients to take center stage, highlighting texture, aromatics, and nuance without relying on spirits.

At The Shelborne By Proper, each drink is crafted with the same care as a traditional cocktail. The result is an experience that feels celebratory, considered, and aligned with a more mindful approach to dining and socializing.

Guests can enjoy alcohol-free cocktails throughout the day and evening across all venues. Seating is available on a walk-in basis, though reservations are recommended during peak hours.

Explore more about our venues and experiences:
Pauline
Little Torch
The Bar

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Dry January?


Dry January is a month-long initiative that encourages people to explore alcohol-free options. Many use it as a reset focused on wellness, balance, and mindful consumption.

Are the cocktails at The Shelborne completely alcohol-free?


Yes. All drinks featured as part of Dry January are fully alcohol-free and crafted for depth and flavor without spirits.

Can I enjoy these cocktails outside of January?


Yes. Select alcohol-free cocktails, including Golden Milk Punch, Cloud Walker, and Carrot Cooler, are available year-round.

Do I need a reservation to try the Dry January cocktails?


Reservations are not required, but availability may be limited during peak dining and evening hours.

Where are the cocktails served?


Alcohol-free cocktails are available at Pauline, Little Torch, and The Bar within The Shelborne By Proper.