Picazzo’s Healthy Italian Kitchen is shaking things up this spring and summer with a vibrant new lineup of handcrafted mocktails, expanding its zero-proof cocktail menu to a total of nine. Known for its health-conscious, inclusive approach to dining, the Arizona-based restaurant chain is building on the overwhelming success of its original trio of mocktails, first introduced in 2023.

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A growing demand for non-alcoholic drinks

The mocktail expansion comes at a time when more Americans are rethinking their relationship with alcohol. According to The Drinks Business, an international trade publication focusing on the global alcoholic beverage industry, consumption of non-alcoholic beverages in the U.S. has doubled since April 2023.

“Mocktails are having a moment,” says Chris Disney, managing partner at Picazzo’s. “We’re seeing a rising demand for non-alcoholic options with healthy ingredients like ginger, turmeric, lemon juice and cucumber.”

Crafting mocktails for health and flavor 

The mocktail trend is reflected in drinks like the Clean Cucumber, a spa-inspired refresher made with pineapple liqueur, citrus juices, and a hint of cucumber, topped with soda water and a lemon peel garnish. Another standout is the Aperitivo Spritz, a non-alcoholic take on the classic Aperol Spritz, served over ice with an orange peel garnish.

The Lemon Zero Rita features non-alcoholic Pallini Limoncello, simple syrup, lemon juice and soda water, finished with a sugar rim, lemon peel and lemon zest. Detox on the Rocks blends non-alcoholic Giffard Ginger Liqueur with sparkling cranberry juice, served over a jumbo ice cube with candied ginger and fresh rosemary.

The Blue Elderflower combines elderflower liqueur, blueberry purée, lime juice and tonic, topped with mint and blueberries. Rounding out the new offerings, Ginger Immune Boost includes ginger liqueur, turmeric and lemon juice, shaken with fresh sage and garnished with sage and candied ginger. These new additions join Picazzo’s original trio of mocktails, Tropical Punch, A Lotta Colada and It’s Blueberry Thyme, each designed to complement the restaurant’s commitment to clean, vibrant flavors.

A menu built for all dietary needs

Picazzo’s maintains a strong committment to accommodating a wide range of dietary needs, with a special focus on those with food allergies. The menu features dishes made from organic produce, non-GMO ingredients, and house-made sauces, with the majority of the menu being gluten-free and vegan-friendly. There is a clear fusion of modern Italian cuisine with Asian, Mediterranean and Mexican influences. Some of the most-loved dishes are the bold Spicy Chipotle Chicken Pasta, the smoky BBQ Chicken Pizza and the vibrant Vegan Zo’s Chopped Salad.

Delicious desserts for a special cause

Picazzo’s is spotlighting its ongoing community support through the Raising for Rett program. For the month of April, in recognition of Autism Awareness Month, the restaurant is donating $1 from every dessert sold to the Rett Syndrome Research Trust. Since launching the program in 2021, Picazzo’s has raised nearly $40,000 for autism and Rett syndrome research. The cause became personal for Disney when his daughter Collyns was diagnosed with Rett syndrome in 2022, a rare genetic disorder that falls on the autism spectrum.

Desserts include a gluten free skillet-baked chocolate chip cookie with a vegan option, hot apple crisp, gluten-free tiramisu and vegan New York-style cheesecake. Donations can also be made online at rettgive.org.

More about Picazzo’s locations and offerings

Picazzo’s has six locations throughout Arizona in Scottsdale, Sedona, Tempe, Paradise Valley, Gilbert and Arrowhead. To learn more, visit picazzos.com.