Dating Without Alcohol.
A guide to the sober scene.
With Dry January—or just a desire to take a break from alcohol—many people are rethinking their relationship with drinking. Whether it’s for health, personal growth, or simply hitting refresh, this shift has opened the door to exploring the dating world without a cocktail in hand. Walk into any bar or restaurant, and you’ll spot plenty of first dates happening over drinks—an easy, low-commitment way to meet someone. But what if you don’t drink?
Nearly half of singles surveyed by Plenty of Fish said they have two to three drinks on a first date, and about 40% pregame before meeting someone. With so many people approaching dating with a buzz, sober singles can sometimes feel like the odd ones out. The best strategy? Be upfront.
Most dating apps let you note your drinking habits alongside other personal details—so you can set expectations early. If someone isn’t cool with your sober lifestyle, they probably aren’t the right match anyway. But being honest on your profile doesn’t mean you need to broadcast everything immediately. Some people prefer to share their reasons for sobriety in messages or once a connection has formed.
If you want to date fellow sober people, there are also apps like Loosid, which not only connect you with other sober singles but also suggest alcohol-free events and activities.
Bars aren’t off-limits, either. Low-ABV drinks and non-alcoholic spirits are more popular than ever, making it easy to enjoy a night out without alcohol. A simple seltzer with lime can feel totally natural—and normal—on a first date.
Of course, there are plenty of alternatives to the bar scene. Coffee dates, ice cream in the park, or a walk around your favorite neighborhood all make for easy, low-pressure ways to connect.
At the end of the day, a first date is about getting to know someone in a way that feels right for you—and that’s absolutely possible without a drink in hand.
