News

The Buzz, home of N.A. beverages, opens downtown

By Lightning Reports, Published: July 10, 2023

Hope Coalition announced that it has opened what it touts as Western North Carolina's first Sober Bar and Café.

The nonprofit that focuses on substance abuse prevention and treatment invited the public to experience the new trend popping up in cities around the country ­— a bar-like atmosphere allowing folks to socialize without alcohol.

While Henderson County is home to nearly two dozen breweries, cideries and wineries and several local bars and restaurants offer zero-proof cocktails, none are entirely alcohol-free. The Buzz is the first non-alcohol dedicated bar, and will not only have cocktails made with zero-proof spirits, but also offer NA beer and wine.

The Buzz's sober social space will allow the community to enjoy a safe and relaxed atmosphere in a social environment free of alcohol, a place where people in recovery can meet away from the pressures of drinking, health-conscience people can gather comfortably, and parents are welcome to bring the family for an evening of drinks, snacks and fun.

“We seek to be a safe, sober space for everyone and invite the public to come and have coffee by day and mocktails in the evening”, said Julie Huneycutt, a Hope Coalition founder who has served as its executive director since it began.

Every purchase at The Buzz has purpose. As part of the nonprofit Hope Coalition, which operates prevention, addiction and recovery support programs in Henderson County, every purchase and tip goes back to support these efforts in the community.

"The Buzz is a great venue for people to gather who want to enjoy a social night without alcohol," Huneycutt said. "It isn’t necessarily for people in recovery. Many are seeking a clarity of conversation that happens without the social lubrication of alcohol."

The Buzz Sober Bar and Cafe is located in the old Whole Body Fitness gym behind Thai Spice at 225 S. Grove St. The Buzz will serve coffee (exclusively roasted by ShareWell Coffee, a local Flat Rock roaster) by morning and switch to N/A drinks around 4 p.m. Menus of seasonal mocktails and "elixirs" will be accompanied by salads, baked goods from Mini Batch Bakery, snacking plates and a rotating food truck calendar. Live music will be offered as the schedule is built out.

For hours, visit thebuzzhendo.com. For more information and news, follow The Buzz on Facebook and Instagram @TheBuzzHendo or . Those interested in being part of the movement may email senglish@elementsofhope for information.