By Mikkel Hyldebrandt
Soberish, located in Atlanta’s Kirkwood neighborhood, is redefining the way we think about happy hour. As a premier non-alcoholic bottle shop and cannabis boutique, Soberish offers a selection of non-alcoholic spirits, wines, aperitifs, and premium cannabis products—many from women-owned brands. In this Q&A, we sit down with the founder and owner, Mehrnush Saadat, to explore the inspiration behind Soberish, the benefits of their product selection, and how they’re creating a space that caters to every taste and preference.
Mehrnush, please explain to us the concept of the newly opened Soberish in Kirkwood.
Soberish is a non-alcoholic bottle shop and cannabis boutique that is “Redefining Happy Hour” and emerging as a cornerstone for the growing ‘sober curious’ and alternative wellness movement. Founded in August, Soberish was inspired by my personal journey using holistic wellness products, herbal remedies, adaptogens, nootropics, CBD and THC, to manage her health issues. With Soberish, I sought to create an educational space aimed at supporting healthier lifestyles, destigmatizing cannabis use as it relates to wellness and promoting an understanding of adaptogens that help support the body’s stress responses. Soberish is all about offering an alternatives to alcohol that don’t sacrifice flavor or the social experience. We’ve created a space where people can enjoy mocktails, THC, or CBD-infused beverages, and a wide assortment of gummies, tinctures, and other products that can provide relaxation or social enjoyment. It’s a welcoming environment for those who are looking to reduce or eliminate alcohol from their lives but still want to partake in social occasions, unwind with something refreshing, or find ways to better support their already stressful lives.
This may be a silly question, but how is this legal in Georgia?
It’s not a silly question at all and we get asked this question every day! The 2018 Farm Bill legalized hemp (hemp still comes from the cannabis plant) federally, allowing its cultivation, sale, and consumption across the U.S. In Georgia, hemp-derived CBD and THC products are legal as long as they comply with state regulations and federal guidelines. Our products are carefully sourced from the best makers around the country and formulated to ensure they meet these legal standards, so customers can feel confident when shopping with us that the products are safe, well tested, and consistent.
What are the benefits of choosing THC and CBD-infused non-alcoholic products from Soberish over conventional alcoholic beverages?
The first benefit is that you get the relaxing, mood-lifting effects of THC or the calming properties of CBD without the hangover and negative effects of alcohol. Choosing THC and CBD-infused non-alcoholic products from Soberish over traditional alcoholic beverages comes with several advantages. Recent advisories from the U.S. Surgeon General have shed light on the fact that alcohol consumption increases the risk of developing various cancers, such as liver, breast, and throat cancers. By opting for non-alcoholic alternatives, you can significantly reduce these risks. Additionally, CBD is known for its potential health benefits, including reducing anxiety, promoting relaxation, and offering anti-inflammatory properties. Incorporating CBD-infused drinks into your lifestyle can contribute to an overall sense of well-being. Moreover, steering clear of alcohol helps you avoid the numerous health issues associated with its consumption, like liver disease, cognitive decline and generalized anxiety. By choosing functional and adaptogen rich products, you’re not just making a healthier choice—you’re also exploring the potential benefits of these compounds in a responsible and enjoyable way.
So, if I’m doing dry January, is this a good option for me?
Absolutely! Soberish is a perfect option for anyone doing dry January, damp January or simply looking to moderate their alcohol consumption. Our products provide a flavorful, enjoyable alternative to traditional alcoholic beverages, and you can still feel the relaxation and joy of socializing without any of the downsides of alcohol.
Apart from not being alcoholic products, what other benefits do they have?
In addition to being non-alcoholic, many of our products are designed to help with relaxation, stress reduction, and overall wellness. CBD, for example, is known for its calming properties, while THC can provide a sense of euphoria or relaxation. We also carry a wide range of functional mushroom products (not psychedelic – think lionsmane, chaga, and reishi) to help with focus, energy, or relaxation. These products are also often lower in calories and sugar than traditional alcoholic drinks, making them a better choice for those conscious of their health and sugar intake.
Soberish has so much more than non-alcoholic beverages – what else do you carry in the store?
We carry a variety of wellness-focused products, from Rose LA CBD gummies, Apothekary wellness tinctures to CBD skin care and even beautiful glassware and barware. Our goal is to offer a holistic but complete boutique shopping experience designed to promote relaxation, mental clarity, and overall well-being. We’re always looking for ways to expand our selection with the best from around the world and support our customers’ wellness journey.
If someone is unfamiliar with THC-infused products, what would your advice to them be?
Start slow and be mindful of how your body reacts. THC affects everyone differently, so it’s important to try small amounts, especially if it’s your first time. We always recommend reading product labels and our team is happy to guide you through your options to ensure you’re choosing something that fits your needs. Patience is key and remember that the experience can be very different from alcohol, so give yourself time to adjust and start small! The most common mistake we hear is “I didn’t feel anything so I took another one…” We all know how that goes!
Anything else you would like to add?
I’d just like to say that Soberish is here to provide choices in a safe, and welcoming space for those looking to explore non-alcoholic, adaptogen, or THC/CBD-infused options. Whether you’re sober-curious, looking to cut back on alcohol, or just seeking something new to try, we’re here to help you find what works best for you. Thank you for supporting us, and we look forward to seeing you at Soberish soon! For more information and to keep up with all things Soberish, visit besoberish.com and follow along on Instagram.