How to Have a Great Dry (or Damp) January in Pittsburgh

It’s our birthday! City Cast Pittsburgh is celebrating two years making podcasts for yinz — 458 so far — plus well over 500 newsletters! So we’re celebrating by popping a bottle with our city’s pioneering nonalcoholic space. The Open Road in Allentown is the oldest (still open) NA specialty retailer in the nation, lined with zero-proof spirits, botanical and CBD seltzers, and even dry versions of your favorite classics. We visited the shop to talk to owner Mel Babitz about how this booze-free business is growing, the toughest alcoholic drinks to recreate, and how to pick your perfect NA adult beverage. Plus, we’re sharing a few of our favorite strategies for folks like us who are trying out Dry January, or just feel sober curious for 2024.  **Editor’s note: A portion of this episode originally published Thursday, July 27, 2024. Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm. Want more Pittsburgh news?  Sign up for our daily morning Hey Pittsburgh newsletter. We’re on Instagram @CityCastPgh. Text or leave us a voicemail at 412-212-8893. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.