HADDON TOWNSHIP, N.J. (KYW Newsradio) — For those who choose to experience January sans alcohol, Haddon Township’s bars and restaurants have plenty of options.
Many people hit the reset button after imbibing generously during the holidays, but they don't necessarily want a simple glass of juice when they go out to the bars. And while Haddon Township is known for its bars and beer gardens, there’s no reason not to frequent a favorite bar or beer garden during what many call “Dry January.”
“When you're not drinking and your friends are going out to the bar, you may say, ‘I want to go, but I'll be forced to drink.’ Here, you can look like you're having a cocktail but you're helping your body detox,” said Kevin Meeker, owner of Keg and Kitchen on Haddon Avenue.
Meeker’s bar is one of several establishments serving specialty mocktails all month. “Right now we have five great cocktails that have no alcohol, so if you're trying to get a little better sleep or lose some weight have a little more energy come here and we'll give it to you,” he said.
Other Haddon Township bars and restaurants with Dry January specials include Reunion Hall and Rexy’s, as well as Central Taco and Tequila and other PJW Restaurant Group establishments.
“So many people participate in Dry January after the holidays,” said Haddon Township Mayor Randall Teague. “The new year is always a great time to try something new and healthy.”
Even Meeker is getting in on Dry January, putting alcohol aside himself for the month.
“I need to lose a few pounds, get a little better sleep, feel a little healthy,” he said. “Slainte to the new year!”