Blog and News

Mexican cuisine is a celebration of boldness. Bright citrus, smoky chiles, rich moles, charred meats—it’s a riot of flavor in the best way possible. And whether you’re sitting down for street tacos or a full-on fiesta, the right drink pairing makes every bite even better. Thankfully, non-alcoholic options are bringing their A-game to the party.

At Dray, we’re here to prove that skipping the booze doesn’t mean missing out. In fact, going non-alc can open up a whole new world of pairings that are just as vibrant, layered, and fiesta-worthy as their alcoholic counterparts—minus the next-day regrets. From zippy NA cervezas to mezcal-inspired spirits and booze-free margaritas that slap, we’ve got something for every bite of birria and splash of salsa.

Why Mexican Cuisine Loves a Great NA Pairing

Here’s the thing: Mexican food is not subtle. It’s designed to make your taste buds dance—whether you’re biting into spicy tinga, tangy ceviche, or a cheesy chile relleno. That kind of flavor profile deserves a drink that can keep up, and non-alcoholic drinks are more than up for the challenge.

Because so many NA options are crafted with real botanicals, fresh citrus, and smoky or herbal elements, they pair beautifully with the spices and textures in Mexican cuisine. Whether you're looking to contrast the heat or amplify the richness, there’s a zero-proof beverage that’ll do the trick. And let’s not forget the carbonation factor—bubbly drinks are your best friend when dealing with fried food or heavy sauces.

Plus, Mexican food is all about gathering, sharing, and enjoying the moment—why not have drinks that everyone can enjoy, regardless of whether they’re drinking alcohol?

Tacos + NA Cervezas = Instant Win

It’s hard to beat tacos and beer—it’s a classic for a reason. But when you want to stay sharp, skip the buzz and reach for an ice-cold non-alcoholic cerveza instead. Woodland Farms Cerveza Clara is a go-to for a reason. It’s light, crisp, and clean, with just enough malt backbone to complement everything from carne asada to crispy fish.

Squeeze some lime over your taco and into your beer for a bright, easy pairing that brings out the salt, citrus, and spice in your food. This one’s perfect for sunny backyard hangs or your favorite taco truck run. Bonus: it pairs beautifully with chips and guac too.

Want something with more punch? Try a michelada-inspired mix using NA beer, hot sauce, lime juice, and a salt rim. It's the ultimate savory-sip combo and a surefire way to elevate your taco night.

Enchiladas, Mole, and Grilled Meats: Bring the Smoky, Herbaceous Vibes

If you’re diving into something rich—like a plate of enchiladas drenched in sauce, or a slow-cooked mole with deep, chocolatey complexity—you want a drink that brings balance. That’s where non-alc spirits with smoky, earthy, or herbal notes come in.

Little Saints St. Ember is a standout. It brings that unmistakable mezcal energy without the alcohol, with smoky undertones, subtle sweetness, and just enough bite to cut through the richness. It’s a dream with grilled carne asada, roasted vegetables, or mole negro—it won’t overpower, but it definitely won’t get lost.

You can serve it over ice with a twist of lime, or mix it into a smoky NA paloma using grapefruit soda and chili salt. It’s bold, complex, and totally in sync with the intensity of traditional Mexican dishes.

Margaritas Without the Hangover? Sí, Please.

No Mexican meal is complete without a good margarita—and the good news is, you don’t need tequila to get that citrusy, salty, zingy magic. NA spirits have leveled up, and the margarita mock—er, NA cocktail—has never been better.

Try mixing up a marg with ISH Mexican Agave Spirit, Trejo’s Spirits, or Almave Ámbar, all of which offer agave-forward flavor with zero booze. Add fresh lime juice, a splash of orange juice or NA triple sec, and finish with a chili salt rim. Whether you like it frozen, spicy, or on the rocks, there’s a non-alc version for you.

These make an awesome pairing for classic street food like elote, tlayudas, or shrimp tacos. The acidity cuts the fat and salt, while the salt rim echoes the seasoning on your plate. It’s the kind of drink that makes everything taste even more vibrant—and keeps the fiesta rolling all night long.

Salsas, Ceviches, and Heat: Keep Things Cool and Crisp

If you’re piling on the salsa or digging into aguachile or ceviche, you want a drink that keeps things cool. High-acid, low-sugar options are ideal here, especially ones with citrus, mint, or bubbles.

Try a Figlia Fiore Frizzante—a gently sparkling botanical drink with citrus and floral notes—or go with a cold-brewed sparkling tea with a touch of ginger or lemongrass. These drinks offer a clean, crisp sip that contrasts beautifully with chili heat and briny seafood.

Feeling spicy? A fresh-pressed cucumber jalapeño soda or NA bloody maria made with tomato juice and lime can add another layer of complexity without tipping into burn-your-mouth territory. Keep it refreshing and you’ll be golden.

Sweet Tooth? Let’s Talk Dulce Pairings

Mexican desserts are wildly underrated. Whether it’s a cinnamon-dusted churro, tres leches cake, or rich flan, you want a drink that brings a little sweetness—but not so much that it overshadows the dish.

For something playful, opt for Three Spirit Nightcap, a dark, complex non-alc aperitif that brings notes of vanilla, spice, and bitter orange. Served over ice, it adds a grown-up finish to a sweet treat.

Sparkling hibiscus teas or agua frescas made with tamarind or mango also work beautifully here—bright, tangy, and never too sugary. The key is contrast: let the drink balance the dessert, not compete with it.

Boston Spots Serving Non-Alc Drinks with Mexican Flair

Craving tacos but not in the mood to cook? Boston’s got your back. More and more local restaurants are embracing the non-alcoholic movement, and their menus prove it.

Lolita Cocina & Tequila Bar might be best known for its boozy selections, but don’t sleep on their non-alc options. Their bartenders know how to craft a vibe-filled zero-proof drink, especially if you ask for something spicy or citrus-forward.

Yellow Door Taqueria (in Dorchester and the South End) is another favorite. Their seasonal menus usually include a non-alc special or two, and their team is more than happy to whip up a custom drink to match your meal. The tacos slap, the vibes are immaculate, and you’ll leave feeling full and refreshed.

And for a super chill grab-and-go option, hit up Naco Taco in Central Square—they’ve got craft sodas and agua frescas that pair perfectly with their street-style menu. It’s casual, it’s delicious, and it’s always a good time.

Final Sip: Fiesta-Worthy Flavor, Zero Proof Required

Mexican cuisine brings the energy—and your drink should too. Whether you’re toasting with a tart NA margarita, sipping on smoky St. Ember with grilled carne, or cracking a crisp cerveza with tacos al pastor, there’s no shortage of non-alcoholic drinks that match the vibe.

At Dray, we believe you shouldn’t have to choose between flavor and feeling good the next day. So next time you’re diving into enchiladas, ceviche, or churros, bring a zero-proof bottle (or two) to the table. It’s a full-flavor fiesta—and everyone’s invited.