What if I told you that nightlife could thrive without a single drop of alcohol? That’s exactly what Bar Nuda is proving! Founded by Pablo Murillo and his best friend Morris Ellis, this innovative pop-up bar in Venice, California, is changing the conversation around drinking culture, blending sobriety with joyful celebration.

This journey began in 2017 when Murillo faced a devastating loss: his father succumbed to alcohol use disorder, leaving a profound impact on him. Just three months after welcoming his first child, Murillo decided to transform his grief into a powerful mission to reshape the narrative surrounding alcohol, especially within his community. The result? Bar Nuda, launched in 2023, is not just a bar; it's an experience where people can laugh, dance, and connect without the influence of alcohol.

“I became sober because of Bar Nuda,” Murillo shared. “It allowed me to change the narrative of my family while also holding space for others.” This space is especially important for Murillo, who grew up in a Mexican-American household where alcohol was often at the heart of celebrations. He’s determined to shift that script and provide alternatives for those seeking joy without the drink.

Statistics reveal a fascinating trend: while historically a staple in social gatherings, alcohol consumption is declining, particularly among young adults who increasingly associate even moderate drinking with health risks. According to the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, 90% of white adults and 80% of Hispanic adults aged 18 and older have consumed alcohol at some point. Yet, a recent Gallup poll shows that only 54% of U.S. adults currently drink, the lowest rate in three decades.

Bar Nuda’s motto, “drink to remember,” encapsulates its ethos: you can have a fantastic time without needing a drink in your hand. They emphasize that you can enjoy life and still celebrate with non-alcoholic options.

What sets Bar Nuda apart is its commitment to Mexican culture and wellness. Beverage director Bryant J. Orozco leads a creative team crafting drinks infused with herbs and flowers native to Mexico, all aimed at energizing and healing. “We wanted to push the needle forward,” Ellis said, making sure their mocktails didn’t just replicate cocktails but offered something entirely new and vibrant.

Initially intended as a non-alcoholic bar, Bar Nuda has blossomed into a community hub, featuring live music, food, and partnerships with local nonprofits. Its events attract a diverse crowd, from those avoiding alcohol for health or religious reasons to social drinkers seeking healthier options.

“From day one, we didn’t want to just make money,” Ellis emphasized. “We wanted to create a celebration – a celebration of ourselves without the need for alcohol.”

Murillo, a first-generation American citizen, carries the legacy of his immigrant family with pride. His dream is to expand Bar Nuda beyond pop-ups, establishing permanent locations that double as coffee shops by day and vibrant sober lounges by night. They also plan to offer packaged products to share their unique flavors beyond Los Angeles.

“Life can be celebrated without booze, and finding a community to share that joy is vital for the soul,” Murillo declared. “At Bar Nuda, we’re here to help you find that.”

If you or someone you know is struggling with alcohol use, remember that help is available. Reach out to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration's helpline at 1-800-662-HELP (4357) or check out the National Institute of Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism for resources.