Nestled in the heart of Napa, just off the corner of First and Main, Wilfred’s Lounge is one of the most popular stops on the Napa Zero Proof Tour. This island-inspired escape is more than just a tiki bar. It is a must-visit destination known for its incredible drinks, fantastic food, and warm hospitality. Wilfred’s excels at creating an inclusive space where both alcohol and zero proof cocktails shine. We sat down with General Manager Lauren Taylor and Bar Manager Joel Pfeifle to discuss their approach to nonalcoholic cocktails, their philosophy on hospitality, and the ever-evolving world of zero proof mixology.
The Importance of Inclusion in a Cocktail Forward Space
Lauren was one of the first partners I approached for Napa Zero Proof Tours, and her early enthusiasm gave me confidence that this was a winning idea. Her personal experience has shaped Wilfred’s approach to zero proof offerings. “Being sober and going out with friends, I know firsthand how important it is to feel included,” she says. “Having a drink in your hand and being part of the moment without alcohol is a game changer. So, ensuring that Wilfred’s offers that experience to our guests is something I care about deeply.”
Joel echoes this sentiment, emphasizing Wilfred’s commitment to making every guest feel welcome, regardless of their drinking preferences. “It’s none of our business why someone chooses not to drink. We just want them to have a great time,” he says. “We want a group of ten people to walk in here, and no matter what they’re drinking, rum, whiskey, -alcoholic cocktails, or beer, everyone finds something they enjoy.”
Listening to Customers and Evolving the Menu
Customer feedback plays a major role in shaping Wilfred’s zero proof program. “We never had nonalcoholic beer when we opened,” Joel recalls. “But guests kept asking for it, so we started bringing some in, rotating different options just like we do with our regular beers.”
The current crowd favorite? Best Day Brewing Kölsch. Up next, Wilfred’s will introduce Sierra Nevada Trail Pass Golden.
Beyond beer, Wilfred’s nonalcoholic cocktail program continues to evolve based on guest interest and creative experimentation. Joel shares a recent win: “I was working on a zero proof take on a Jungle Bird. I gave it to a few guests who drink alcohol, and they loved it. When I told them it was nonalcoholic, they didn’t believe me. That’s when I knew it had to go on the menu.”
Crafting a Zero Proof Cocktail with Island Spirit
The tropical, vacation like ambiance of Wilfred’s influences everything they serve, including their zero proof cocktails. “We want people to feel transported,” Joel explains. “Pineapple, coconut, passionfruit, those flavors evoke island memories. We get creative with ingredients like pandan infused coconut cream to add depth and texture.”
One of their surprise zero-proof hits, the Toucan Sham, actually started as a rum cocktail. “Something wasn’t working,” Joel admits, “so we took out the rum and suddenly, it was perfect. It reminded us of Froot Loops, so that’s where the name came from.”
Wilfred’s mocktail menu also features other standouts like OBEAHMAN, a bold and flavorful tropical creation, Blue Skies, a refreshing citrus-forward drink, Watermelon Sugar, an irresistible mix of fresh fruit flavors, and UBE-BAE-BABY!, which highlights the unique, creamy sweetness of ube. Guests love how balanced and exciting these drinks are, often requesting to add a spirit to them rather than choosing something from the already extensive cocktail list, effectively creating a “mock-mocktail.”
Wilfred’s has also experimented with various techniques to enhance body and mouthfeel in their nonalcoholic drinks. “The biggest challenge with zero proof cocktails is texture,” Joel says. “Without alcohol, some drinks can feel thin. One technique I love is using a milk punch clarification. It adds weight and richness, making the drink feel like a proper cocktail.”
Unlike many bars, Wilfred’s tends not to use nonalcoholic spirits in their mocktails. “By focusing on fresh ingredients and house-made elements instead of expensive NA spirits, we’re able to keep the prices low while still delivering high quality, delicious drinks,” Joel says.
That being said, Joel has started experimenting with a few nonalcoholic spirits to add even more variety to their already ambitions NA program. “There’s one from the UK called Wilfred’s, which is funny because there’s no relation, but I had to try it. It’s got this bitter orange and herbal thing going on, really interesting. I’ve been playing with it in a milk punch, and it adds the weight and mouthfeel that some NA drinks lack.”
The Future of Zero Proof at Wilfred’s
As the nonalcoholic movement continues to grow, Wilfred’s is committed to staying ahead of the curve. “People used to think NA cocktails were a fad, but it’s clear now that they’re here to stay,” Joel says. “We change our regular cocktail menu seasonally, so why not do the same for our zero proof drinks?”
With more nonalcoholic spirits and ingredients hitting the market, Wilfred’s plans to keep expanding and refining their zero proof offerings. “New techniques, new flavors, it’s all about keeping things fun, balanced, and delicious,” Joel says. “We’ll continue listening to our guests and evolving with them.”
Experience Zero Proof Magic at Wilfred’s
At Wilfred’s Lounge, you’ll find more than just a drink. You’ll find a whole new way to experience bar culture. Whether you’re enjoying a tiki-inspired classic or a refined non-alcoholic option, the lounge brings creativity and craftsmanship to every pour, redefining what a bar can be. With a menu that’s always evolving, a cozy island-themed atmosphere, and a team dedicated to thoughtful hospitality, Wilfred’s is a must-visit for anyone in downtown Napa looking to enjoy delicious drinks, great food, and an inviting environment.
Visit Wilfred’s Lounge to experience their vibrant zero proof offerings and see why they’re a standout partner in the Napa Zero Proof Tour.